Talay Riley, a Grammy-winning British-Nigerian songwriter known for his work with global pop and R&B stars such as Britney Spears, Khalid, H.E.R., and Craig David, has died at the age of 35 following a stabbing incident in East London.
The singer and songwriter, whose real name was Mark Yinka Orabiyi, was attacked on Pankhurst Avenue in Silvertown at approximately 9 am on Friday. Emergency services rushed to the scene but were unable to save him. Police have launched a murder investigation, with three people initially arrested in connection with the case. One man was released on bail, while a second man and a woman were released with no further action.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Riley grew up in East London as a British-Nigerian child with a natural ear for melody and a talent for writing songs for other artists. By the age of 18, he had secured a publishing deal with Global Publishing. By his mid-twenties, he was writing for some of the biggest names in pop and R&B on both sides of the Atlantic. His early break came through rapper Chip, formerly known as Chipmunk, whose 2009 album he contributed to, leading to a signing with Jive/Sony Records.
Major Hits and Collaborations
From there, his credits accumulated rapidly. He worked with Ellie Goulding, Jessie J, JLS, Trey Songz, Usher, Nick Jonas, and Iggy Azalea, leaving his mark on records across genres and continents throughout the 2010s. His most recognisable moment as a songwriter came in 2017 when H.E.R.'s song 'Lights On', which he co-wrote, won a Grammy. Khalid's 'Young Dumb and Broke', which reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100, also carries his name in the credits. He contributed to Britney Spears' ninth studio album, 'Glory', in 2016, and collaborated with Craig David on three tracks from 'The Time is Now' in 2018. As recently as 2025, he received a Grammy nomination for his work with British girl group FLO. In March 2026, just months before his death, he reflected publicly on his career, including collaborations with Zendaya.
Tributes and Legacy
His family confirmed his death in a statement, describing their loss as an overwhelming sadness and remembering him as a Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum songwriter whose humour and generosity left a mark on everyone who knew him. His brother, music producer Scribz Riley, posted on Instagram, calling him a mentor, an inspiration, and a light in so many people's lives. Stormzy and Craig David were among those who publicly expressed condolences.
Riley's death comes amid growing alarm over knife crime in the United Kingdom. Stabbings in London have remained a persistent crisis in recent years, with young men disproportionately represented among both victims and perpetrators. He is survived by his family, including his brother Scribz Riley. He was 35. No trial date has been set in connection with his death.
