Nigerian-born British recording artiste, Talay Riley, has died following a knife attack in the United Kingdom.
The 35-year-old, whose real name is Yinka Mark Orabiyi, died on June 5, 2026, after being stabbed.
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Cops said they responded on Friday to calls that a man had been stabbed in Pankhurst Avenue, East London.
Emergency services found the 35-year-old with several stab wounds in the garden of a property on Rayleigh Road and battled to save his life.
Tragically, Talay Riley was pronounced dead at the scene, despite the best efforts of paramedics.
Another man, in his 20s, was taken to hospital with multiple stab wounds – he remains under the care of medics in a non-life-threatening condition.
Two men, aged 27 and 24, and a 25-year-old woman were arrested near the scene of the fatal stabbing on suspicion of murder.
The 24-year-old man and 25-year-old woman were released with no further action.
The 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Homicide detectives from the Specialist Crime Command have launched a murder investigation into the incident.
Cops appealed for further information from “anyone who was in the area at the time”.
Talay Riley has previously worked with Dua Lipa, Usher, Chipmunk, Craig David, Chris Brown, Nick Jonas, and Britney Spears to pen chart-topping songs.
Tributes have poured in for Talay, including a touching homage from his family.
They said: “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 (real name Michael Orabiyi Riley), also penned an emotional tribute to his older sibling on Instagram.
He wrote: “I never thought the day would come when I’d be writing this, but unfortunately, I can confirm that on 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.”
The heartbroken younger brother recalled how he was known for his “talent, kindness and spirit”, blown away by the “outpouring of love” since his tragic death.
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.”
More tributes from industry figures flooded the comments on his brother’s and manager’s posts.
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: “I’m so sorry bro… I’m sending you so much love.”
Longtime friend and collaborator Chip wrote: “You ain’t 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 to the hit-maker online.
The label said: “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.”
