Grammy-winning rap collaborator stabbed to death in London

Chris Brown and Iggy Azalea collaborator Talay Riley was stabbed to death in London last week.

The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, best known for his single ‘Make You Mine’, passed away at the age of 35.

According to the Metro, police officers responded to reports of a man being stabbed in Silvertown, east London, at around 9am on June 5th. The musician (real name Mark Orabiyi) was found with stab wounds in a garden on Rayleigh Road, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a statement, Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke 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.”

She added, “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.”

His brother, Scribz Riley, paid tribute in an Instagram post, revealing his heartbreak over the death.

“My heart is shattered!” he wrote. “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.”

He continued, “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. 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.”

Stormzy commented on the post, “I’m sorry bro,” while Wretch 32 said, “Sending love to you and your family bro. Your brother was a gem and will be missed and never forgotten, Never! RIP.” H.E.R., Kehlani, and Khalid are among many other artists who shared their condolences.

Riley collaborated with many artists throughout his career, including Dua Lipa, Tinie Tempah, Britney Spears, Chip, Ella Mai, Ellie Goulding, Craig David, and many others.