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 and prompting tributes from collaborators including Michael Omari Jr., known professionally as Stormzy, and Jahmaal Noel Fyffe, known as Chipmunk.

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. 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.

A Plea for Witnesses in Silvertown

Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who is leading the investigation, urged anyone with information to come forward.

“This is a tragic incident and my thoughts remain with Mark’s family and loved ones. Our investigation continues at pace,” Yorke said. “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.”

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.”

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.”

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.