D’Wayne Wiggins, a co-founder of the legendary Tony! Toni! Toné!, has passed away. He was 64.
Wiggins’ passing was confirmed in an Instagram post shared by the group. He succumbed to bladder cancer.
“With broken hearts, we share with you that our beloved D’Wayne passed away this morning surrounded by family and loved ones,” the post read. “Over the past year, he has been privately and courageously battling bladder cancer. Through this fight, he remained committed and present for his family, his music, his fans and his community.”
“D’Wayne’s life was incomparable, and his music and service impacted millions around the world, including in his hometown of Oakland, California, the post continued. “He was a guitarist, producer, composer, philanthropist, mentor and founding member of Tony! Toni! Tone! He was deeply passionate about providing artist development and mentorship to emerging young musicians, helping to shape the early careers of many.”
“For now, we ask that you continue to respect our privacy. We mourn with you, and are deeply grateful for your love and support.”
Born in Oakland, California, he co-founded Tony! Toni! Toné! with his half-brother, Raphael Saadiq, on bass and vocals and cousin Timothy Christian Riley on drums/keyboards in 1986. The next year, they released their debut single “One Night Stand.” Their debut album, Who?, was released in 1988, featuring their breakthrough single “Little Walter.” Blending funk, soul, R&B and gospel, Tony! Toni! Toné! showcased their impeccable musicianship.
The Revival, the group’s sophomore effort, was released in 1990 and featured the classic “Feels Good,” which peaked at No. 9 on the Hot 100 singles chart. After the single, “Whatever You Want”, Wiggins provided lead vocals for the timeless track. The group went on to release Sons of Soul LP 1993, and House Of Music in 1996, both received critical acclaim.
After Tony! Toni! Tone! disbanded, Wiggins was instrumental in helping to launch the career Destiny’s Child — featuring Beyonce — He produced several tracks on the group’s self-titled debut from 1998. Alson, he contributed The Writing’s on the Wall and Survivor albums.
Wiggins also worked with Keyshia Cole, Too $hort, Alicia Keys and Carlos Santana.
In 2003, the group reunited without Saadiq and appeared onThe Diary of Alicia Keys song “Diary” (No. 8 on the Hot 100). With Saadiq, the group reunited for a national tour in 2023.
We at HOT97 extend our prayers and deepest condolences to the family and friends of D’Wayne Wiggins.
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