Grammy Award-winning songwriter Talley Riley, who has performed with Britney Spears and Dua Lipa, has been found stabbed to death in London. He was 35 years old.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed in a statement that Riley, identified by his real name Mark Olabiyi, was found by police with stab wounds in the garden of a Silvertown property on Friday morning.
Despite the efforts of emergency personnel, Riley was pronounced dead at the scene, the statement said.
According to the Metropolitan Police Department, a man in his 20s was also taken to hospital with multiple stab wounds, but his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke confirmed three people had been arrested on suspicion of murder. They include a 27-year-old man who was released on bail pending further questioning, a 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman who were released without further action.
Riley’s family said in a statement: “Mark was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend. He brought love, light and joy to our family and everyone who knew him.”
“We will always cherish his kindness, beautiful spirit and extraordinary talent. His presence touched many lives and his memory will forever remain in our hearts. May his soul rest in complete peace,” the statement added.
Riley’s brother, Michael Olabi, dedicated a touching post to his late brother on Instagram.
“His humor, generous spirit and unmistakable presence will be most missed by those who knew and loved him personally,” Olabiyi wrote.
His post added: “We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received over the past few hours through messages, calls and visits. Thank you for your continued care and consideration during this devastating time for all of us.”
Riley worked on Spears’ 2016 album “Glory” and Lipa’s 2016 single “Last Dance.”
His Grammy award was for his work on the song “Lights On” from HER’s debut album, which won Best R&B Album at the 2019 Grammy Awards.
Riley has also worked with Jessie J, Ellie Goulding, Iggy Azalea, Trey Songz, Chris Brown, Usher, Nick Jonas, Jason Derulo, and more.
