D’Wayne Wiggins, the guitarist, producer and co-founder of the pioneering R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné! handed away on March 7, 2025, on the age of 64, following a battle with bladder most cancers. His household confirmed his passing, noting that he was surrounded by family members in his last moments.
Born and raised in Oakland, California, Wiggins, alongside his brother Raphael Saadiq and cousin Timothy Christian Riley, shaped Tony! Toni! Toné! in 1986. The trio rapidly turned a defining drive in R&B, mixing soul, funk and gospel influences to create a sound that resonated with audiences worldwide. Their debut album, Who? (1988), launched the world to their progressive model, nevertheless it was their subsequent releases, The Revival (1990) and Sons of Soul (1993), that solidified their legacy with hits like “Feels Good” and “If I Had No Loot.”
Past the group’s success, Wiggins was a visionary within the music business. His West Oakland Home of Music studio turned a nurturing floor for rising expertise, most notably serving as an early residence for Future’s Baby. His mentorship prolonged to artists similar to Alicia Keys, Keyshia Cole, H.E.R. and Kehlani, reflecting his dedication to fostering new voices in R&B.
Wiggins additionally ventured into solo tasks, releasing Eyes By no means Lie in 2000, which showcased his versatility and depth as an artist. His contributions to Alicia Keys’ Diary earned him a GRAMMY nomination in 2003, additional cementing his affect within the business.
In 2023, Tony! Toni! Toné! reunited for a U.S. tour, celebrating the thirtieth anniversary of Sons of Soul. This reunion was a testomony to their enduring affect on R&B and a cherished second for followers and the band alike.
D’Wayne Wiggins is survived by his spouse, Michelle, and their two sons, Justin and Dylan. He additionally leaves behind his brother and bandmate, Raphael Saadiq, and cousin Timothy Christian Riley, each co-founders of Tony! Toni! Toné!
