Stormzy, Wretch 32 and Oritse Williams pay tribute after death of Talay Riley
By Laura Harding, Press Association Entertainment Editor
Stormzy, Oritse Williams and Wretch 32 are among the artists who have paid tributes to singer-songwriter Talay Riley, who was stabbed to death in east London.
The musician, real name Mark Orabiyi, 35, was found with stab wounds by paramedics on the morning of June 5th and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Grammy winner Riley worked on tracks for artists including Dua Lipa, Zendaya, Khalid, Flo and Chipmunk.
His brother Michael Orabiyi, better known as record producer and songwriter 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 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.
“He loved deeply, gave freely, and touched countless people through his talent, kindness, and spirit.
“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 JLS star Williams wrote: “Sending you and your family strength and prayers in Jesus name my brother.”
British rapper Wretch 32 said: “Sending love to you & your family bro. Your brother was a gem & will be missed & never forgotten, Never! RIP.”
Orayibi worked on hits including Khalid’s Young Dumb & Broke, The Chainsmokers’ Who Do You Love, HER’s Lights On, Flo’s Walk Like This, and Kehlani’s Out The Window.
Kehlani wrote: “Big hugs Scribs I’m so sorry”, while HER shared a hug emjoi. Khalid wrote: “I’m so sorry bro… I’m sending you so much love.”
Sugababes star Keisha Buchanan wrote: “Sending my condolences and prayers, so very sorry.”
Police were called at around 9am on June 5 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 June 5 on suspicion of murder.
A 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further enquiries.
After police questioning, a second man, aged 24, and a 25-year-old woman have been released with no further action.
Detective Chief Inspector 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.”
