World music icons mourn murdered Nigerian artiste

Music stars across the globe  have continued to pay tributes to  the late British singer and songwriter Talay Riley, stabbed to death in East London. He was 35 years old.

Notable singers, including Stormzy, took to the comment section to write “I’m sorry bro”.

Craig David, who worked with Talay on his 2018 album ‘The Time is Now,’ said: “Sending so much love to you & the family. His beautiful energy will continue to be felt & shown from the other side.”

Joining the fray, Scribz, born Michael Orabiyi Riley, penned an emotional tribute to his older sibling on Instagram.

“I never thought the day would come where I’d be writing this, but unfortunately I can confirm that on the morning of Friday 5th June my big brother YINKA (Talay Riley) passed away,” he wrote.

“My heart is shattered! 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. 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.

“Even with everything you accomplished this was far too soon. I love you brother. Thank you for everything. Rest in paradise Yinka. Until we meet again.”

Talay’s death was also confirmed in a statement released by his family. They described their loss as an “overwhelming sadness”.

The family remembered Riley not only for his professional accomplishments but for his character.

“It is with overwhelming sadness that we confirm that Mark ‘Yinka’ Orabiyi professionally known as Talay Riley passed away yesterday morning,” the statement reads.

“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.

“For those that knew and loved him personally it is his humour, generous spirit and unmistakable presence that will be missed the most.”

The family also expressed gratitude for the public’s support following the tragedy.

“We are deeply grateful for the enormous outpouring of love and support that we have received through messages, calls and visits over the past hours,” the statement added.