A singer-songwriter who worked with Zendaya and Britney Spears has died after being stabbed in London on Friday.
Talay Riley, 35, was found at an address in Silvertown, east London, at around 9am on Friday having suffered stab wounds, and was pronounced dead at the scene.
A man in his 20s was also taken to hospital with multiple stab wounds and remains in hospital, with injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.
Three people were arrested on suspicion of murder on Friday.
A 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further enquiries, while a second man, 24, and woman, 25, have been released with no further action.
Riley, whose real name is Mark Orabiyi, signed his first major publishing deal with Global Publishing at the age of 18.
He had 76,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, and had toured across the UK and the US with artists including Skepta, Usher and Trey Songz.
He also had an extensive list of song-writing credits, writing on tracks for artists including Tinie Tempah, Jessie J, Ellie Goulding, Britney Spears, and Craig David.
The musician’s family is being supported by specialist officers.
In a tribute on Sunday, his family said he was a “beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend.”
The statement read: “He brought love, light, and joy to our family and to all who knew him. We will always cherish his kindness, beautiful spirit, and remarkable talent.
“His presence touched many lives, and his memory will remain in our hearts forever. May his soul rest in perfect peace."
Riley also co-wrote Chip’s number-one UK single Oopsy Daisy, and the rapper paid tribute to his friend on Instagram.
The post read: “You ain’t deserve to go out like that fam. Fly high bro. Your pen will live forever. What a day man. What a life… RIP Talay Riley.
“I’ll cherish the memories forever. Prayers and thoughts go out to your family. From pirate radio and Chanel U teens to #1 and platinum. Penaliens. We did that.
“God bless you man. Hail up all the other fallen soldiers for me up there. Until we meet again. Sad fam. RIP Talay (Tension) Riley…”
This Morning presenter Rochelle Humes commented on the post, writing: “May he rest in peace. I will always remember how kind he was to everyone and his friendly smile.”
A number of people also commented on Riley’s Instagram page to leave their own tributes.
Craig David wrote: “Sending so much love to you & the family. His beautiful energy will continue to be felt & shown from the other side.”
Deborah Cox commented: “Awe man I’m so sad … he was so talented and lovely. May he rest in peace.”
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.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting CAD 1868/5JUN, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
The day after the incident, two men were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a large fight in Barking on Saturday night.
The incident occurred around 11.20pm on River Road, where three men, aged 28, 23 and 22, were discovered by emergency crews with stab wounds.
All three were taken to hospital, where the 22-year-old remains in a critical condition.
The other two men were later discharged and taken into custody after being arrested on suspicion of attempted murder in connection with the incident.
