Stormzy and Oritsé Williams are among the artists who have paid tribute to the singer-songwriter Talay Riley, who was stabbed to death in Silvertown, east London.
The 35-year-old musician, whose real name was Mark Orabiyi, was found with stab wounds by paramedics on the morning of 5 June and pronounced dead at the scene.
Orabiyi had an extensive list of songwriting credits, including tracks for artists including Tinie Tempah, Jessie J, Ellie Goulding, Britney Spears and Craig David.
His brother Michael Orabiyi, a record producer and songwriter who works under the name Scribz Riley, wrote on Instagram: “My heart is shattered! This doesn’t feel real. It feels like a bad dream.
“Just before he went to sleep we spoke about the future, staying positive and about everything we still had left to do. I never imagined that would be our last conversation.
“He loved deeply, gave freely, and touched countless people through his talent, kindness, and spirit.”
He described his brother as “a friend to many, a mentor, an inspiration, and a light in so many people’s lives”, adding: “He had one of the purest hearts I’ve ever known. The outpouring of love already shows how many lives he impacted. You inspired so many people and your legacy will continue to live on through your music, your family, your friends, and everyone blessed enough to have known you.
“Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me and my family, we appreciate you all.”
Stormzy commented on the post “I’m sorry bro”, while the JLS singer Williams wrote: “Sending you and your family strength and prayers in Jesus name my brother.”
The British rapper Wretch 32 said: “Sending love to you + your family bro. Your brother was a gem + will be missed + never forgotten, Never! RIP.”
The musician also worked on hits including Khalid’s Young Dumb & Broke, the Chainsmokers’ Who Do You Love, HER’s Lights On, and Kehlani’s Out the Window.
He signed his first major publishing deal with Global Publishing at the age of 18 and went on to write the rapper Chip’s UK No 1 single Oopsy Daisy.
Kehlani wrote: “Big hugs Scribs I’m so sorry,” while the singer HER shared a hug emoji. Khalid wrote: “I’m so sorry bro … I’m sending you so much love.”
Police were called at about 9am on Friday to reports that a man had been stabbed in Pankhurst Avenue, Silvertown. Riley was found with stab wounds in the garden of a property in nearby Rayleigh Road.
Three people were arrested on 5 June on suspicion of murder. A 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further inquiries. After police questioning, a second man, 24, and a 25-year-old woman were released with no further action.
DCI Joanna Yorke, who is leading the Met’s investigation, said: “This is a tragic incident and my thoughts remain with Mark’s family and loved ones. Our investigation continues at pace. I would like to appeal for anyone who was in the area at the time of this incident to speak to police.
“We are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who might have CCTV or other footage from the morning of the incident that could assist our investigation.”
