Singer-Songwriter Talay Riley, Who Wrote Hits for Dua Lipa and Britney Spears, Dead at 39 After London Stabbing
British singer-songwriter Talay Riley, who worked with and wrote songs for artists including Dua Lipa, Britney Spears and Zendaya, was stabbed to death in London on Friday, June 5, the Metropolitan Police said in a statement.
Authorities were called around 9 a.m. on Friday after receiving a report that a man had been stabbed. They transported him to a hospital, but Riley, whose real name is Mark Orabiyi, was pronounced dead on his arrival.
He was 35.
Another man was taken to the hospital with multiple stab wounds, but his injuries are not considered life-threatening.
The police arrested two men and one woman who were near the scene on suspicion of murder. According to US Weekly, one of the men was released on bail pending further investigation, while the other two were "released with no further action."
"Mark was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend. He brought love, light, and joy to our family and to all who knew him," Riley's family said in a statement. "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."
Riley wrote songs including Zendaya's "Close Up," Dua Lipa's "Last Dance" and Spears' "Clumsy," as well as having worked with artists including rapper Stormzy, Craig David, Chris Brown, Khalid, and more.
Riley's brother and music producer Scribz Riley paid tribute.
"I never thought the day would come where I'd be writing this, but unfortunately I can confirm that in the morning of Friday 5th June my big brother YINKA (Talay Riley) passed away," he wrote 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. He had one of the purest hearts I've ever known. He loved deeply, gave freely, and touched countless people through his talent, kindness, and spirit. The outpouring of love already shows how many lives he impacted. You inspired so many people and your legacy will continue to live on through your music, your family, your friends, and everyone blessed enough to have known you. Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me and my family, we appreciate you all."
"Even with everything you accomplished this was far too soon. I love you brother. Thank you for everything. Rest in paradise Yinka," he concluded. "Until we meet again. ❤️🕊️"
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This story was originally published June 8, 2026 at 8:42 AM.