DISCLAIMER: This article mentions death.Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Talay Riley, known for his collaborations with some of music’s biggest names, has died following a stabbing in London. His death was announced by the London Metropolitan Police. Riley, born Mark Orabiyi, was pronounced dead on the morning of June 5 by paramedics responding to an emergency call. It was found in the garden of a house in the Silvertown suburb of East London. He was 35 years old.
Inquest into the death of Talay Riley
According to Deadline, Metropolitan Police Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who is leading the investigation, said in a statement: “This is a tragic incident and my thoughts are with Mark’s family and friends. Our research continues at a rapid pace. I would like to appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time of this incident to speak to the police. We are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who may have CCTV or other footage from the morning of the incident which may assist our investigation.“According to the police, three people were arrested that morning on suspicion of murder, including a 27-year-old man, who has since been released on bail pending further investigation. The other two, a 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman, were released without further action.
Who was Talay Riley?
Born on July 10, 1990 in London, Riley began his songwriting career around 2009 and by 2013 had contributed music to some of the industry’s biggest artists, including Usher, Nick Jonas, Iggy Azalea, Pentatonix and Chris Brown. Britney Spears recorded ‘Clumsy’ for her 2016 album ‘Glory’, and Dua Lipa recorded ‘Last Dance’ for her debut album that same year.Riley won a Grammy Award for writing HER, the song from her 2017 Grammy-winning self-titled debut album, “Lights On.” As a recording artist in his own right, he scored a UK hit in 2011 with ‘Make You Mine’ and toured with Skepta, Usher and Trey Songz.
Tributes from Talay Riley’s family
In a statement released through the Metropolitan Police, Riley’s family said: “Mark was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend. He brought love, light and joy to our family and all who knew him. We will always cherish her kindness, beautiful spirit and outstanding talent. His presence touched many lives, and his memory will remain in our hearts forever. May his soul rest in perfect peace.’His family and management also wrote on Instagram: “Talay will be fondly remembered by those who knew him publicly for his incredible talent as a Grammy-winning, multi-platinum songwriter and artist. For those who knew him and loved him personally, it will be his humor, generous spirit and unmistakable presence that will be most missed. and visits in his final hours.” Thank you for your continued care and sensitivity at this devastating time for all of us.”The investigation into Riley’s death continues, with police continuing to appeal for witnesses and footage from the area.
