Remembering Talay Riley: A Grammy-Winning Songwriter's Tragic Legacy
The music world mourns the untimely passing of Talay Riley, the Grammy-winning songwriter responsible for crafting hits for artists like Dua Lipa, Britney Spears, and H.E.R. Riley, whose real name was Mark “Yinka” Orabiyi, died last w...
The music community is reeling from the tragic news of Talay Riley’s passing. The Grammy-winning songwriter, celebrated for his indelible contributions to pop and R&B, died last week at the age of 35 following a stabbing in East London.
On Friday morning, June 5, Talay Riley (born Mark “Yinka” Orabiyi) was discovered with stab wounds in a garden around 9 a.m. local time. Despite immediate efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene, as confirmed by the Metropolitan Police. A second individual, a man in his 20s, also sustained non-life-threatening injuries in the attack.
The Metropolitan Police have arrested three individuals in connection with Orabiyi’s death. While two have since been released without further action, one remains out on bail, pending ongoing inquiries. Detectives have urged anyone with information or security footage from the area to come forward, emphasizing that the investigation "continues at pace."
Talay Riley’s family, alongside his manager Cleo Amedume, confirmed his death in a heartfelt statement. They remembered him publicly for his "incredible talent as a Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum-selling songwriter & artist." Personally, he will be deeply missed for his "humor, generous spirit and unmistakable presence."
Riley’s impact on contemporary music is undeniable. He penned Dua Lipa’s 2016 single “Last Dance,” contributed to Khalid’s smash “Young Dumb & Broke,” and co-wrote H.E.R.’s acclaimed “Lights On.” It was his work on the latter, featured on H.E.R.’s 2017 self-titled album, that earned him a Grammy Award when the LP won Best R&B Album at the 61st Grammys.
His impressive songwriting catalog also includes Jessie J’s “Who’s Laughing Now,” Britney Spears’ “Clumsy,” Jason Derulo’s “If It Ain’t Love,” and Nick Jonas’ “Levels.” His versatility spanned genres and cemented his reputation as a sought-after collaborator.
Before becoming a behind-the-scenes powerhouse, Riley first gained recognition as both a performer and songwriter in 2009. He notably collaborated with grime MC Chip, co-writing and featuring on several tracks from Chip’s debut album, I Am Chipmunk. Their collaboration “Look for Me” soared to Number Seven on the U.K. singles chart.
A few years later, Riley achieved a minor hit with his own track “Make You Mine,” featured on his 2011 mixtape, Going to California. Even as his songwriting career flourished, he continued to release his own music, frequently sharing tracks online and reportedly preparing for a new album release.
His creative output remained strong in recent years, with contributions to Paloma Faith’s 2024 album, The Glorification of Sadness, Kelela’s upcoming 2025 effort, In the Blue Light, and Kehlani’s recent self-titled LP. He also received a Grammy nomination for his work with the rising British girl group Flo on their debut album, Access All Areas.
Michael Orabiyi, Talay Riley’s brother and a respected songwriter known as Scribz Riley, shared a poignant tribute online. He described his brother as having "one of the purest hearts I’ve ever known," highlighting his deep love, generosity, and the countless lives he touched through his talent and spirit. Michael affirmed that Talay’s "legacy will continue to live on through your music, your family, your friends, and everyone blessed enough to have known you.”
The outpouring of grief and respect extended far beyond family. Comments on Michael’s tribute posts saw an array of condolences from prominent artists and collaborators, including Stormzy, Kehlani, Khalid, and Ella Mai, all mourning the loss of a truly exceptional talent.
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