Nigerian-British singer and songwriter, Mark Yinka Orabiyi, popularly known as Talay Riley, has died after he was stabbed in East London.
Riley, 35, was attacked around 9 a.m. on Friday on Pankhurst Avenue in Silvertown, according to reports by Newham Recorder.
Emergency services were called to the scene, but the Grammy-winning songwriter could not be saved.
Homicide detectives from the Specialist Crime Command have since launched a murder investigation into the incident.
His family confirmed his death in an emotional statement, describing the loss as one of “overwhelming sadness.”
“It is with overwhelming sadness that we confirm that Mark ‘Yinka’ Orabiyi, professionally known as Talay Riley, passed away yesterday morning,” the family said.
They described Riley as an accomplished artiste and songwriter whose impact extended beyond music.
“Talay will fondly be remembered by those who knew him publicly for his incredible talent as a Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum selling songwriter and artiste.
“For those that knew and loved him personally, it is his humour, generous spirit and unmistakable presence that will be missed the most,” the statement added.
The family also thanked fans, friends and colleagues for the support they had received since the tragedy.
“We are deeply grateful for the enormous outpouring of love and support that we have received through messages, calls and visits over the past hours.
“Thank you for your continued consideration and sensitivity at what is a devastating time for us all,” the family said.
Riley, who was the brother of music producer Scribz Riley, spent more than a decade contributing to the growth of contemporary R&B.
He entered the music industry at 18 after signing a publishing deal with Global Publishing.
His career gained wider attention after he featured on rapper Chipmunk’s 2009 single, before signing with Jive/Sony Records.
Over the years, Riley toured the United Kingdom and the United States with major acts including Skepta, Usher and Trey Songz.
He also worked with international stars such as Kehlani, H.E.R., Khalid and the rising American group, 2BYG.
Following his death, tributes poured in from friends, fans and industry colleagues.
His younger brother, Scribz Riley, whose real name is Michael Orabiyi Riley, paid a heartbreaking tribute to him on Instagram.
“I never thought the day would come where I’d be writing this, but unfortunately I can confirm that on the morning of Friday 5th June my big brother YINKA, Talay Riley, passed away,” he wrote.
“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. Yinka wasn’t just my brother. He was my mother’s son, a friend to many, a mentor, an inspiration, and a light in so many people’s lives.
“Even with everything you accomplished, this was far too soon. I love you brother. Thank you for everything. Rest in paradise Yinka. Until we meet again,” Scribz added.
