Source : PERTHNOW NEWS
Talay Riley has been mourned by family, friends and music industry figures after the acclaimed songwriter was killed aged 35 following a stabbing in east London.
The musician, whose real name was Mark Orabiyi, was a British singer-songwriter and Grammy-winning hitmaker whose writing credits spanned some of the biggest names in contemporary music, including Dua Lipa, Usher, Craig David, Britney Spears, Chris Brown, Nick Jonas, Khalid, Kehlani and H.E.R..
Police said officers were called on Friday (05.06.26) to reports of a stabbing in Pankhurst Avenue, east London. Emergency services attended and found a 35-year-old man with multiple stab wounds in the garden of a property on Rayleigh Road.
Despite the efforts of paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
A second man, believed to be in his 20s, was taken to hospital with injuries that police said were not believed to be life-threatening.
Detectives from the Metropolitan Police’s Specialist Crime Command have launched a murder investigation.
Paying tribute to Talay, his family 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.”
Talay built a reputation as one of Britain’s most successful behind-the-scenes songwriters, contributing to chart hits including Khalid’s Young Dumb and Broke, The Chainsmokers’ Who Do You Love, FLO’s Walk Like This and Kehlani’s Out The Window.
He also co-wrote Lights On, which appeared on H.E.R.’s Grammy-winning self-titled album.
Across his career, his work connected him with artists from R B, pop, hip-hop and dance music, earning him recognition on both sides of the Atlantic.
Police said 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 later released with no further action.
And the 27-year-old man has been released on bail while enquiries continue.
Talay’s younger brother, songwriter Scribz Riley, whose real name is Michael Orabiyi Riley, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram.
Michael wrote: “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.”
Michael 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.”
Tributes were also paid by fellow musicians and collaborators.
Stormzy wrote: “I’m sorry bro”.
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who is leading the investigation, said: “This is a tragic incident and my thoughts remain with Mark’s family and loved ones.
“Our investigation continues at pace. 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.”
