Nigerian Grammy-winning singer Talay Riley has died at the age of 35 after being stabbed in the United Kingdom. The British-Nigerian singer-songwriter, whose real name was Yinka Mark Orabiyi, was fatally attacked on June 5, 2026.
Details of the Incident
Police responded to reports of a stabbing in Pankhurst Avenue, East London, on Friday. Emergency services found the 35-year-old with multiple stab wounds in the garden of a property on Rayleigh Road. Despite efforts to save his life, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Another man, in his 20s, was taken to hospital with multiple stab wounds and remains in a non-life-threatening condition. Two men, aged 27 and 24, and a 25-year-old woman were arrested near the scene on suspicion of murder. The 24-year-old man and the woman were released without further action, while the 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Investigation and Appeal
Homicide detectives from the Specialist Crime Command have launched a murder investigation. Police have appealed for information from anyone who was in the area at the time.
Musical Career and Collaborations
Talay Riley worked with numerous international stars, including Dua Lipa, Usher, Chipmunk, Craig David, Chris Brown, Nick Jonas, and Britney Spears, penning chart-topping songs.
Tributes from Family and Friends
His family paid tribute, saying: "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."
His brother, songwriter Scribz Riley (Michael Orabiyi Riley), shared an emotional tribute on Instagram: "I never thought the day would come where I'd be writing this, but unfortunately I can confirm that in the morning of Friday 5th June my big brother YINKA (Talay Riley) passed away. 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."
He added: "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."
Industry Tributes
Singer Stormzy wrote: "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." American singer-songwriter Kehlani wrote: "big hugs scribz i'm so sorry." R&B artist Khalid said: "Im so sorrry bro... im sending you so much love."
Longtime friend and collaborator Chip wrote: "You aint deserve to go out like that fam. Fly high bro. your pen will live forever. What a day man. What a life. RIP Talay Riley. I'll cherish the memories forever fam. Prayers and thoughts go out to your family."
California-based record label Position Music shared a tribute: "We remember Talay Riley, an extraordinary songwriter, artist, and creative whose impact on music will be felt for generations. He will be remembered for his creativity, passion, and the lasting impact he had on everyone fortunate enough to work with him. Rest in peace, Talay. Your legacy will live on forever."
