Mark “Yinka” Orabiyi, the Grammy-winning songwriter known professionally as Talay Riley, was found stabbed to death on Friday, June 5, 2026, in the garden of a residential property on Rayleigh Road in Silvertown, east London. The Metropolitan Police were called to the scene at around 9 a.m., and the 35-year-old was rushed to a hospital but pronounced dead on arrival.
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. Three people have been arrested in connection with the murder investigation. A 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further inquiries, while a 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman were questioned and released with no further action.
Riley’s death has sent shockwaves through the music industry, prompting tributes from collaborators including Michael Omari Jr., known professionally as Stormzy, and Jahmaal Noel Fyffe, known as Chipmunk.
A Pen Behind the Hits
Born in London on July 10, 1990, Riley built one of the most quietly influential songwriting careers in contemporary pop and R&B. He began carving out his career in 2009, breaking through alongside grime artist 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.
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.
But it was as a songwriter that Riley made his deepest mark. In 2014, he 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. His credits stretch across a remarkable roster of contemporary stars: 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 his most recognizable cuts are 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.
Tributes Pour In From Collaborators
Tributes from across music’s biggest names began surfacing within hours of the news. Stormzy posted, “I’m sorry bro,” while 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.”
Riley’s family also 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.”
A Plea for Witnesses in Silvertown
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who is leading the investigation, urged anyone with information to come forward.
The Metropolitan Police investigation remains ongoing. Officers continue to appeal for witnesses and CCTV footage from the Silvertown area on the morning of June 5.