Grammy-winning Nigerian-British singer and songwriter Mark Olayinka Orabiyi, popularly known as Talay Riley, has died at the age of 35 after being stabbed in East London.
The incident happened around 9 a.m. on June 5 in Pankhurst Avenue, Silvertown, in London. Police and emergency services responded to reports of a stabbing and found Riley with serious stab wounds in the garden of a property near Rayleigh Road. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Another man, believed to be in his 20s, was also found with multiple stab wounds and was taken to hospital. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
Three people were initially arrested on suspicion of murder following the incident. A 27-year-old man was later released on bail pending further enquiries, while a 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman were released with no further action. Detectives from the Metropolitan Police’s Specialist Crime Command are continuing their investigation.
Talay’s death was confirmed by his family in a statement describing their loss as an “overwhelming sadness.”
“It is with overwhelming sadness that we confirm that Mark ‘Yinka’ Orabiyi, professionally known as Talay Riley, passed away yesterday morning,” the statement read.
“Talay will fondly be remembered by those who knew him publicly for his incredible talent as a Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum-selling songwriter and artist. For those that knew and loved him personally, it is his humour, generous spirit and unmistakable presence that will be missed the most.”
Born to Nigerian heritage and raised in East London, Talay Riley entered the music industry at the age of 18 after signing a publishing deal with Global Publishing. He gained widespread recognition after writing Chip’s UK number-one hit “Oopsy Daisy” and later signed with Jive/Sony Records.
Over the years, Riley became one of Britain’s most respected songwriters, working with some of the biggest names in global music. His songwriting credits included hits such as Khalid’s “Young Dumb & Broke,” The Chainsmokers’ “Who Do You Love,” H.E.R.’s “Lights On,” Flo’s “Walk Like This,” and Kehlani’s “Out The Window.” He also worked on songs and projects involving Dua Lipa, Zendaya, Chris Brown, Craig David, Nick Jonas, Britney Spears and Usher.
His success as a songwriter earned him Grammy recognition and established him as a multi-platinum-selling songwriter whose work influenced modern R&B and pop music across the UK and the United States. As a co-writer. Talay Riley contributed to a Grammy win as a co-writer on H.E.R.’s self-titled compilation album (H.E.R.), which won Best R&B Album at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards in 2019.
Although Talay proudly embraced his Nigerian roots, there is no widely documented public record confirming that he performed in Nigeria. However, many tributes following his death have highlighted his Nigerian-British heritage and the impact he had on the music industry.
The news of his death has sparked an outpouring of grief from fellow artists, friends and fans around the world.
His younger brother, Michael Orabiyi, better known as music producer and songwriter Scribz Riley, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram.
“My heart is shattered! This doesn’t feel real. It feels like a bad dream,” he wrote.
“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.”
He described Talay as “a friend to many, a mentor, an inspiration, and a light in so many people’s lives.”
“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.”
Several high-profile artists also paid tribute. UK rapper Stormzy commented on Scribz Riley’s post, writing: “I’m sorry bro.”
JLS star Oritsé Williams wrote: “Sending you and your family strength and prayers in Jesus name my brother.”
British rapper Wretch 32 added: “Sending love to you & your family bro. Your brother was a gem & will be missed & never forgotten. RIP.”
American singer Kehlani wrote: “Big hugs Scribs I’m so sorry,” while H.E.R. responded with a hug emoji. Khalid also shared his condolences, writing: “I’m so sorry bro… I’m sending you so much love.”
Sugababes star Keisha Buchanan wrote: “Sending my condolences and prayers, so very sorry.”
Craig David, who worked with Talay on his 2018 album “The Time Is Now,” also paid tribute, saying: “Sending so much love to you and the family. His beautiful energy will continue to be felt and shown from the other side.”
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who is leading the investigation on the case, described the killing as a tragic incident.
“This is a tragic incident and my thoughts remain with Mark’s family and loved ones,” she said.
“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.”
The post Grammy-winning Nigerian-British singer Talay Riley dies at 35 after fatal London stabbing appeared first on Nigerian Entertainment Today.
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