Nigerian-British singer and songwriter Mark Yinka Orabiyi, known professionally as Talay Riley, has died following a stabbing incident in East London. He was 35.
According to reports, the attack happened around 9 a.m. on Friday on Pankhurst Avenue in Silvertown. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene, but he was pronounced dead shortly after.
The Metropolitan Police have opened a murder investigation under its Specialist Crime Command. No arrests have been announced at this stage.
Riley’s family confirmed his death in a statement, expressing deep grief over the loss.
“It is with overwhelming sadness that we confirm that Mark ‘Yinka’ Orabiyi, professionally known as Talay Riley, passed away yesterday morning,” the statement read.
They described him as a talented songwriter and performer whose work reached audiences internationally, noting both his professional achievements and personal qualities.
The family also acknowledged the support received since news of his death emerged, thanking well-wishers for messages and condolences while asking for privacy.
Riley was the brother of producer Scribz Riley. In a statement shared on social media, Scribz said he had spoken with his brother shortly before the incident and described him as a key figure in his life.
He recalled their final conversation as focused on plans for the future, adding that the loss felt sudden and difficult to process. He described his brother as a mentor and source of inspiration.
Talay Riley began his music career in his late teens after signing a publishing deal with Global Publishing. He later gained wider recognition after featuring on Chipmunk’s 2009 single and went on to sign with Jive/Sony Records.
Over the years, he worked across the UK and US music scenes, collaborating with artists including Skepta, Usher, Trey Songz, Kehlani, H.E.R., and Khalid.
Tributes have continued to emerge from across the music industry following news of his death.
