British-Nigerian musician Talay Riley, whose real name was Mark Orabiyi, has died at the age of 35 after being fatally stabbed in Silvertown, United Kingdom, on Friday, June 5. He was found by police emergency teams in the garden of a property on Rayleigh Road, suffering from stab wounds. Despite immediate medical intervention by paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a man in his 20s, also injured with multiple stab wounds, was taken to hospital but is not believed to be facing life-threatening or life-changing injuries.
Three people were arrested on suspicion of murder following the incident. A 27-year-old man has since been released on bail pending further investigation. After questioning, a 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman were released with no further action. Police are continuing their investigation and have appealed for public assistance, particularly from anyone who may have CCTV or other footage from the morning of the incident.
Talay Riley, a respected figure in British music, was known for his songwriting and performances. He released two albums: “Yinka, Vol. 1” in 2019 and “Going To California” in 2011. He gained widespread recognition for co-writing Chip’s UK number one hit “Oopsy Daisy” in 2009 and for featuring on the fan-favourite track “Look For Me.” His contributions to the UK music scene were celebrated by fans and peers alike.
The Orabiyi family released a heartfelt statement describing Mark as a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend. They said he brought love, light, and joy to everyone he met and that his kindness, spirit, and talent would be deeply missed. “May his soul rest in perfect peace,” they wrote.
Tributes flooded in on social media, with @blackbritishculture calling him “one of the UK’s most respected songwriters and recording artists.” Rapper Chip, formerly known as Chipmunk, shared his grief on Instagram, writing, “You ain’t deserve to go out like that fam. Fly high bro. Your pen will live forever. What a day man. What a life… RIP Talay Riley.” Another user, @sam.a_t, remembered him as a “legend in British music,” recalling how “Look for me” sparked his own love for music.
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, leading the investigation, expressed condolences to Mark’s family and urged anyone with information to come forward. The case remains active, and police continue to gather evidence. Talay Riley’s legacy in British music, especially his work with Chip and his influence on a generation of listeners, will endure as the investigation proceeds.
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