Talented Nigerian-British singer and songwriter Talay Riley, real name Mark Yinka Orabiyi, has been tragically killed at the age of 35 after being stabbed in East London, leaving the music industry in mourning.
The incident occurred around 9 a.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026, on Pankhurst Avenue in Silvertown. Emergency services rushed to the scene but could not save the Grammy-winning artist, who was pronounced dead despite their efforts. Homicide detectives from the Metropolitan Police’s Specialist Crime Command have launched a murder investigation.
Talay’s family confirmed the devastating news in an official statement, describing their loss as one filled with “overwhelming sadness.” The family said:
“It is with overwhelming sadness that we confirm that Mark ‘Yinka’ Orabiyi, professionally known as Talay Riley, passed away yesterday morning.”
They celebrated both his professional achievements and personal qualities:
“Talay will fondly be remembered by those who knew him publicly for his incredible talent as a Grammy Award winning, multi-platinum selling songwriter & artist. For those that knew and loved him personally it is his humour, generous spirit and unmistakable presence that will be missed the most.”
The family also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support:
“We are deeply grateful for the enormous outpouring of love and support that we have received through messages, calls and visits over the past hours.”
Talay Riley, brother of renowned music producer Scribz Riley, enjoyed a career spanning over a decade in the R&B scene. He broke into the industry at 18 with a publishing deal at Global Publishing, later signing with Jive/Sony Records after featuring on Chipmunk’s 2009 single. He toured with major acts including Skepta, Usher, and Trey Songz, and collaborated with stars like Kehlani, H.E.R., Khalid, and others.
His brother Scribz shared an emotional tribute on Instagram:
“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… Thank you for everything. Rest in paradise Yinka. Until we meet again.”
Tributes have poured in from across the industry. Stormzy commented with “I’m sorry bro,” while Craig David, who collaborated with Talay on the 2018 album The Time is Now, wrote:
“Sending so much love to you & the family. His beautiful energy will continue to be felt & shown from the other side.”
The shocking death of the gifted artist has sent ripples of grief through the Nigerian and British music communities, highlighting once again the senseless violence that continues to claim young lives in parts of London.