British singer-songwriter Talay Riley, who wrote songs for artists including Dua Lipa, Britney Spears and Zendaya, was stabbed to death in London on Friday, June 5, the Metropolitan Police said. He was 35.
Police were called early Friday to an address in Silvertown, east London, to take care of a suspected stabbing.
Riley, whose real name was Mark Orabiyi, was pronounced dead on the scene.
A second man was taken to the hospital with multiple stab wounds, the Met Police said.
Three suspects — two men aged 27 and 24 and a 25-year-old woman — were arrested on suspicion of murder, the department said. The 27-year-old man was released on bail pending further investigation. The opposite two people detained were released with no further motion.
“Mark was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend. He brought love, light and joy to our family and to all who knew him,” Riley’s family said in a press release.
“We are going to at all times cherish his kindness, beautiful spirit and memorable talent. His presence touched many lives, and his memory will remain in our hearts eternally,” the family added. “May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Riley’s songwriting credits include Zendaya’s “Close Up,” Dua Lipa’s “Last Dance” and Spears’ “Clumsy.” He has also written for the likes of U.K. rapper Stormzy, Craig David, Chris Brown, Khalid and more.
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Riley’s brother, music producer Scribz Riley (real name Michael Orabiyi), paid tribute to the singer-songwriter in a Saturday, June 6, Instagram post.
“My heart is shattered! This doesn’t feel real. It appears like a nasty dream. Just before he went to sleep we spoke concerning the future, staying positive and about all the things we still had left to do,” he wrote. “I never imagined that will be our last conversation. Yinka wasn’t just my brother. He was my mother’s son, a friend to many, a mentor, an inspiration, and a light-weight in so many individuals’s lives. He had one among the purest hearts I’ve ever known. He loved deeply, gave freely, and touched countless people through his talent, kindness, and spirit.”
Scribz added, “The outpouring of affection already shows what number of lives he impacted. You inspired so many individuals and your legacy will proceed to continue to exist through your music, your loved ones, your pals, and everybody blessed enough to have known you. Thanks to everyone who has reached out to me and my family, we appreciate you all.”
Stormzy and Khalid were among the many people to comment on Scribz’s post.
“I’m sorry bro ❤️❤️❤️,” wrote Stormzy. Khalid added, “Im so sorrry bro… im sending you a lot love 🕊️.”
Singer Kehlani wrote, “Big hugs scribz i’m so sorry.”