Talay Riley, a Grammy Award-winning musician with a string of high-profile songwriting credits to his name, has been fatally stabbed in London, England.
On the morning of June 5, paramedics were summoned to a residential property in East London’s Silvertown neighborhood. Riley, 35, was found in the garden and pronounced dead shortly afterwards. A man in his 20s was also taken to hospital after suffering multiple stab wounds, his condition is not listed as life-threatening.
A statement by London’s Metropolitan Police pays tribute to Riley and requests any relevant information from the public. Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who is leading the investigation, 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. 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.”
Three people were arrested on the day Riley died on suspicion of murder: a 27-year-old man, a 24-year-old man, and a 25-year-old woman. After questioning, the 24-year-old man and the 25-year-old woman were released with no further action. The 27-year-old man has been released on bail “pending further enquiries”.
“His memory will remain in our hearts forever”
The Metropolitan Police’s statement contains a statement from Riley’s family paying tribute, referring to him by his birth name of Mark Orabiyi:
“Mark was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend. He brought love, light, and joy to our family and to all who knew him. We will always cherish his kindness, beautiful spirit, and remarkable talent. His presence touched many lives, and his memory will remain in our hearts forever. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
In 2018, Riley won a Grammy Award for writing the H.E.R. song ‘Lights On’, but had a glittering career stretching back to 2009, with songwriting credits for Tinie Tempeh, Jessie J, JLS, Ellie Goulding, Iggy Azalea, Usher, Chris Brown, Dua Lipa, Britney Spears, Jason DeRulo, and Craig David (among many others).
A joint statement from the Orabiyi family and his management was also posted to Instagram, saying:
“It is with overwhelming sadness that we confirm that Mark ‘Yinka’ Orabiyi professionally known as Talay Riley passed away yesterday morning.
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.
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. Thank you for your continued consideration and sensitivity at what is a devastating time for us all.”
The investigation continues.
Published: Jun 9, 2026 09:42 am