• 8 June 2026

Afro Saxon Voice

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Britney Spears and Dua Lipa Songwriter Stabbed to Death To East London Back Garden

A singer-songwriter who wrote for Dua Lipa and Britney Spears has been stabbed to death in east London.

Talay Riley was found in the garden of a property in Rayleigh Road, Silvertown, at around 9am on Friday.

The 35-year-old, whose real name is Mark Orabiyi, was taken to hospital but died on arrival.

A second man in his 20s, who also suffered stab wounds, remains in hospital with non-life-threatening or life-changing injuries.

The Metropolitan Police said three people were arrested on suspicion of murder.

A 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further inquiries, while a second man, 24, and woman, 25, have been released with no further action.

Riley had writing credits on songs for Chris Brown, Nick Jonas, Tinie Tempah, Jessie J, Ellie Goulding, David Guetta, JLS, Khalid and Zendaya.

He co-wrote Last Dance with Dua Lipa in 2016 for her eponymous debut album.

The Grammy award-winning artist had also toured across the UK and the US with artists including Skepta, Usher and Trey Songz.

Talay Riley with Usher Raymond

Riley’s family paid tribute to a “beautiful spirit” who brought “love, light and joy” to all who knew him.

In a statement, the family said: “Mark was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend. He brought love, light and joy to our family and to all who knew him.

“We will always cherish his kindness, beautiful spirit and remarkable talent. His presence touched many lives and his memory will remain in our hearts forever.

“May his soul rest in perfect peace.”

Songwriter Scribz Riley, real name Michael Orabiyi Riley, said his brother had “inspired so many people”.

‘My heart is shattered’

In a post on Instagram, he wrote: “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… he loved deeply, gave freely, and touched countless people through his talent, kindness and spirit.”

He added: “Even with everything you accomplished this was far too soon. I love you brother. Thank you for everything. Rest in paradise Yinka. Until we meet again.”

Responding to the post, Stormzy wrote: “I’m sorry bro,” while JLS star Oritsé Williams wrote: “Sending you and your family strength and prayers in Jesus name my brother.”

Wretch 32, a British rapper, said: “Sending love to you & your family bro. Your brother was a gem & will be missed & never forgotten, Never! RIP.”

Craig David, who worked with Riley on his 2018 album The Time is now, added: “Sending so much love to you & the family. His beautiful energy will continue to be felt & shown from the other side.”

Keisha Buchanan, from the Sugababes, wrote: “Sending my condolences and prayers, so very sorry.”

Det Ch Insp Joanna Yorke, who is leading the Met’s investigation, said: “This is a tragic incident and my thoughts remain with Mark’s family and loved ones.

“Our investigation continues at pace. I would like to appeal for anyone who was in the area at the time of this incident to speak to police.

“We are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who might have CCTV or other footage from the morning of the incident that could assist our investigation.”

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