English Songwriter Talay Riley Dies After London Stabbing

English singer-songwriter Talay Riley, who penned songs for the likes of Dua Lipa and Britney Spears, has died after a London stabbing. 

Metropolitan Police confirmed Riley's passing at the age of 35 in a statement (as per Rolling Stone), revealing that the artist — real name Mark “Yinka” Orabiyi — was found in a garden with stab wounds around 9am local time on Friday. 

Orabiyi was pronounced dead at the scene, while a second victim in the attack sustained injuries that weren't considered life-threatening. 

Metropolitan Police arrested three people on suspicion of Orabiyi's murder, with one released on bail pending further inquiries. The other two were released with no further action taken. 

A Metropolitan Police detective, however, said the investigation “continues at pace”, further asking anyone who was in the area to come forward with information. 

Orabiyi's family and manager, Cleo Amedume, confirmed his passing on social media. 

“Talay will fondly be remembered by those who knew him publicly for his incredible talent as a Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum-selling songwriter & artist," an Instagram statement read. "For those that knew and loved him personally it is his humor, generous spirit and unmistakable presence that will be missed the most.”

Orabiyi's credits as a songwriter include “Last Dance” for Dua Lipa, Khalid's “Young Dumb & Broke”, and H.E.R.'s “Lights On”. 

It was through his work on the latter song that earned him his Grammy, with H.E.R.'s 2017 self-titled record winning Best R&B Album. 

Orabiyi also contributed to songs for Jessie J, Britney Spears, Jason Derulo, and Nick Jonas. 

Orabiyi released his own music as Riley at the same time as helping other artists out. 

His brother, Michael Orabiyi — also a songwriter known as Scribz Riley — shared a tribute on Instagram, writing, “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.”