British-Nigerian singer and songwriter, Talay Riley, has died at the age of 35 after a fatal stabbing in East London, United Kingdom.
Riley, whose real name was Mark Yinka Orabiyi, was a Grammy-winning, multi-platinum-selling songwriter known for collaborating with several international music stars.
According to reports, the incident occurred around 9 a.m. on Friday on Pankhurst Avenue in Silvertown, East London. Emergency services responded to the scene and attempted to save him, but he was pronounced dead following the attack.
Homicide detectives have since launched a murder investigation into the incident.
Confirming his death, Riley’s family expressed “overwhelming sadness” over the loss.
“It is with overwhelming sadness that we confirm that Mark ‘Yinka’ Orabiyi, professionally known as Talay Riley, passed away yesterday morning,” the family said in a statement.
The family noted that Talay would be remembered for both his remarkable achievements in music and the impact he had on those around him.
“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 artist.
“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 the public for the outpouring of love and support following the tragic incident as tributes continued to pour in from fans, friends and fellow musicians.
Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding the stabbing are ongoing.
