The singer-songwriter Talay Riley, who wrote for artists like Dua Lipa, Britney Spears, and H.E.R., died in a stabbing in East London last week. He was 35.
According to a statement from the Metropolitan Police, Riley (real name Mark “Yinka” Orabiyi), was found in a garden with stab wounds around 9 a.m. local time last Friday, June 5. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A second victim in the stabbing attack, a man in his 20s, sustained injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
Police arrested three people on suspicion of killing Orabiyi, with one released on bail pending further inquiries. The other two were released with no additional action taken. A detective for London’s Metropolitan Police said the investigation “continues at pace,” and called on anyone who was in the area, or might have security footage, to come forward with information.
In a statement shared on Instagram, Riley’s family and manager, Cleo Amedume, confirmed his death. “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 humor, generous spirit and unmistakable presence that will be missed the most.”
Riley’s biggest credits as a songwriter include Dua Lipa’s 2016 single “Last Dance,” Khalid’s “Young Dumb & Broke,” and H.E.R.’s “Lights On.” His work on the latter earned Riley his Grammy when the LP appeared on H.E.R.’s 2017 self-titled effort, which took home Best R&B Album at the 61st Grammys. Riley also contributed to Jessie J’s “Who’s Laughing Now,” Britney Spears’ “Clumsy,” Jason Derulo’s “If It Ain’t Love,” and Nick Jonas’ “Levels.”
Riley broke through as both a songwriter and performer in 2009, thanks to his collaborations with the grime MC Chip. Riley co-wrote and featured on several songs on Chip’s debut, I Am Chipmunk, including “Look for Me,” which peaked at Number Seven on the U.K. singles charts. A few years later, Riley notched a minor hit of his own with “Make You Mine,” which appeared on his own 2011 mixtape, Going to California.
Riley continued to release his own music even after his songwriting career took off. He frequently dropped tracks online and, based on recent social media posts, appeared to be gearing up for the release of a new album.
His songwriting didn’t stop either. He contributed to Paloma Faith’s 2024 album, The Glorification of Sadness; Kelela’s 2025 effort, In the Blue Light; and Kehlani’s recent self-titled LP. He also worked closely with the up-and-coming British girl group Flo, receiving a Grammy nomination for his contributions to their debut album, Access All Areas.
Riley’s brother, Michael Orabiyi — also a well-known songwriter under the moniker Scribz Riley — shared a tribute on Instagram, writing, “He had one of the purest hearts I’ve ever known. He loved deeply, gave freely, and touched countless people through his talent, kindness, and spirit. The outpouring of love already shows how many lives he impacted. You inspired so many people and your legacy will continue to live on through your music, your family, your friends, and everyone blessed enough to have known you.”
In the comments to Michael’s posts were further tributes and condolences from many of Riley’s peers and collaborators, including Stormzy, Kehlani, Khalid, and Ella Mai.
Steve Cohen*
