D’Wayne Wiggins, a key member of the renowned R&B group Tony! Toni! Tone!, passed away at the age of 64 after a courageous battle with bladder cancer. The news was shared by his family on social media, highlighting the profound impact of his life and music on countless people around the world, especially in his hometown of Oakland, California.
Wiggins was not only a talented guitarist and producer but also a mentor who was dedicated to nurturing young musical talent. His family emphasized that even during his illness, he remained devoted to his loved ones, his music, and his community.
Tony! Toni! Tone! was formed by Wiggins alongside his brother Raphael Saadiq and cousin Christian Riley. The group became a prominent force in the New Jack Swing movement, skillfully blending R&B, jazz, and gospel influences. They made their mark with their debut album, “Who?”, featuring popular tracks like “Baby Doll” and “Little Walter.” However, it was their 1990 hit “Feels Good” that brought them widespread acclaim, reaching No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The group continued to produce hit songs through the 1990s, with beloved tracks such as “Let’s Get Down,” “Whatever You Want,” and the timeless classic “Anniversary.” Their song “It Never Rains (In Southern California)” was a notable cover of a 1972 hit by Albert Hammond.
Despite their success, the band faced challenges that led to their split after the release of their fourth album, “House of Music,” in 1996. Personal issues, including the pressures of fame and creative differences, made it difficult for them to stay together. However, Wiggins and Riley continued to perform under the band’s name from 1998 to 2018, showcasing their resilience.
In recent years, the original members reconciled and performed together again for a tour in 2023, their first in nearly three decades. They pledged to focus on their music and support each other, aware that time is a precious resource. Wiggins expressed excitement about future projects and their desire to create music that resonated with their audience.
This moment marks not only the loss of a talented musician but also a reminder of the power of family and unity in the face of life’s challenges.
