Grammy-winning songwriter Talay Riley has died after a stabbing in east London, according to the Metropolitan Police. He was 35.
Riley — born Mark Orabiyi — was found with stab wounds at a residence in Silvertown on June 5 and was pronounced dead at the hospital. A second man in his twenties was also injured but is expected to recover, police told Billboard U.K.
Three people were arrested on suspicion of murder. A 27-year-old man has been released on bail, while a 24-year-old man and 25-year-old woman were released with no further action. The investigation is ongoing.
Riley was a sought-after songwriter whose credits include work for Britney Spears (“Clumsy”), Dua Lipa (“Last Dance”), Chris Brown (“Zero,” “Fine By Me”), Khalid (“Young Dumb & Broke”) and FLO. Alongside his brother Scribz Riley, he co-wrote “Lights On” from H.E.R.’s 2017 self-titled album, which won Best R&B Album at the 2018 Grammys.
This is so sad to hear. Another talented artist in the world of music is gone too soon. My deepest condolences go out to his family.