Grammy-winning songwriter Talay Riley, whose real name was Mark “Yinka” Orabiyi, was found stabbed to death in the garden of a residential property in east London on Friday, June 5, 2026, sending shockwaves through the music industry. The 35-year-old artist was discovered with multiple stab wounds on Rayleigh Road in Silvertown after the Metropolitan Police were called at around 9 a.m. He was taken to a hospital but pronounced dead on arrival.
Born in London on July 10, 1990, Riley had quietly assembled one of the most impressive songwriting catalogs in contemporary pop and R&B. His credits spanned Chris Brown, Nick Jonas, Tinie Tempah, Jessie J, Ellie Goulding, David Guetta, JLS, Khalid Donnel Robinson (known as Khalid), Zendaya, Usher and Britney Spears.
Among Riley’s most recognizable work were Khalid’s “Young, Dumb & Broke,” The Chainsmokers’ “Who Do You Love,” Zendaya’s “Close Up,” Jessie J’s “Who’s Laughing Now,” Jason Derulo’s “If It Ain’t Love” and Nick Jonas’s “Levels.” Britney Spears recorded his song “Clumsy” for her 2016 album “Glory.”
Grammy Gold With H.E.R.
Riley’s biggest accolade came in 2019, when he won a Grammy for writing H.E.R.’s “Lights On.” The track appeared on H.E.R.’s compilation album “H.E.R.,” released in 2017, which took home Best R&B Album at the 61st Grammys. The win cemented Riley’s status as a multi-platinum songwriter respected across the Atlantic, even as he continued releasing his own music and, according to recent social media posts, appeared to be preparing a new album at the time of his death.
Riley launched his career in 2009, breaking through alongside grime artist Jahmaal Noel Fyffe, known as Chipmunk. He co-wrote and was featured on several tracks from Chipmunk’s debut album, including “Look For Me,” which reached No. 7 on the UK Singles Chart. The two also performed a Michael Jackson tribute act together on BBC Three.
In 2014, Riley co-wrote Dua Lipa’s “Last Dance,” which appeared on her eponymous debut album. He later contributed to her tracks “Hotter Than Hell” as well.
As a recording artist in his own right, Riley scored a minor hit in 2011 with “Make You Mine,” from his mixtape “Going to California.” He also released the track “Oopsy Daisy” during the same era of his solo career.
Murder Investigation Underway
A second man in his 20s, who also suffered stab wounds, remains hospitalized with injuries that police say are not life-threatening or life-changing.
Detectives have launched a murder investigation and arrested three people. A 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further inquiries. A 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman were questioned and released with no further action.
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who is leading the investigation, urged anyone with information to come forward.
Officers continue to appeal for witnesses and CCTV footage from the Silvertown area on the morning of June 5.
Tributes From Across the Music Industry
Riley’s family issued a statement through the Metropolitan Police describing him as “a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend” who “brought love, light, and joy to our family and to all who knew him.”
Tributes from across music’s biggest names began surfacing within hours of the news. Michael Omari Jr., known professionally as Stormzy, posted, “I’m sorry bro,” while Jahmaal Noel Fyffe, known as Chipmunk, Khalid and Kehlani Ashley Parrish, known as Kehlani, also paid their respects.
Riley’s brother, Michael Orabiyi — himself a successful songwriter known professionally as Scribz Riley — shared an emotional tribute confirming his brother’s death. He wrote that the two had spoken about the future just before Riley went to sleep, never imagining it would be their final conversation.
“He had one of the purest hearts I’ve ever known,” Michael wrote. “He loved deeply, gave freely, and touched countless people through his talent, kindness, and spirit.”
In a joint statement released by Riley’s family and management, they reflected on the dual nature of his legacy. “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 Metropolitan Police investigation remains ongoing.
