Singer-songwriter to the stars Talay Riley stabbed to death in London

A singer-songwriter who worked with Dua Lipa, Britney Spears and Zendaya has died aged 35 after he was stabbed in east London.

Artist Talay Riley, whose real name was Mark Orabiyi, died after he was found with stab wounds in Silvertown on Friday, the Metropolitan Police said.

The Grammy award-winning songwriter was pronounced dead at the scene.

The musician worked with Dua Lipa, Britney Spears, Ellie Goulding and numerous other artists. He has almost 77,000 listeners on Spotify and had toured with Usher and other artists.

In a tribute on social media, his brother, artist Scribz Riley, whose real name is Michael Orabiyi, said: "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 added his brother was a "friend to many, a mentor, an inspiration, and a light in so many people's lives".

"He loved deeply, gave freely, and touched countless people through his talent, kindness, and spirit," he said.

Rapper Stormzy commented on the post: "I'm sorry bro", while singer Kehlani wrote "Big hugs Scribs I'm so sorry" and British rapper Wretch 32 said: "Sending love to you & your family bro. Your brother was a gem & will be missed & never forgotten, Never! RIP."

Craig David, Paloma Faith and Oritse Williams also joined in the social media tributes.

"Omg I am in shock. I had no idea I worked with him quite a few times and he was such and amazing talent and fun person to be around," Paloma Faith said.

In a statement, Orabiyi's 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."

A second man in his 20s, who suffered stab wounds in the incident on Friday, remains in hospital, police said.

His condition is not believed to be life-threatening.

Three people have been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident, the Metropolitan Police said.

A 27-year-old man has been released on bail pending further inquiries. A 24-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman were released with no further action after police questioning.

The artist received a writing credit for the song Lights On on R&B artists H.E.R's self-titled album, which won a Grammy in 2019.

(c) Sky News 2026: Singer-songwriter to the stars Talay Riley stabbed to death in London