British singer-songwriter Talay Riley, known for writing for major artists including Dua Lipa and Britney Spears, has died at the age of 35 after a stabbing incident in East London.
Metropolitan Police said Riley, whose real name is Mark Orabiyi, was found with multiple stab wounds in the garden of a property in Silvertown on June 5. He was taken to hospital but pronounced dead on arrival. A second man in his 20s was also injured in the incident and remains in hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Authorities have launched a murd3r investigation, with three suspects – two men and a woman – currently in custody.
Riley built a successful career as a songwriter, contributing to hits such as Dua Lipa’s “Hotter Than Hell” and “Last Dance,” Zendaya’s “Close Up,” Britney Spears’ “Clumsy,” The Chainsmokers’ “Who Do You Love,” and H.E.R.’s Grammy-winning album H.E.R. in 2019.
His family described him as a “beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend,” remembering his kindness, talent, and positive impact on those around him.
His brother, producer Scribz Riley, shared a tribute calling him “a light in so many people’s lives,” saying the family was devastated and struggling to process the sudden loss. Fellow artists including Kehlani, Khalid, and Stormzy also shared messages of sympathy and support.
Riley’s death has left the music community mourning the loss of a talented songwriter whose work helped shape several major pop and R&B hits.