The music world is mourning the loss of D’Wayne Wiggins, the guitarist, producer, and co-founder of Tony! Toni! Toné!, who passed away on March 7, 2025, at the age of 64. His death follows a quiet battle with bladder cancer, which he had kept largely private.
For decades, Wiggins was a force in R&B and soul music, leaving an indelible mark not just as a performer but as a mentor, producer, and cultural icon. His influence extended far beyond the stage, shaping generations of artists and elevating the Bay Area’s music scene to national prominence.
From Oakland to the Top of the Charts
Born on February 14, 1961, in Oakland, California, Wiggins grew up immersed in the rich musical traditions of the Bay Area. In 1986, he formed Tony! Toni! Toné! with his half-brother Raphael Saadiq and cousin Timothy Christian Riley.
The group became one of the defining acts of late-’80s and ’90s R&B, delivering a string of platinum albums and timeless hits, including:
“Feels Good”
“It Never Rains (In Southern California)”
“Anniversary”
“Whatever You Want”
Blending classic soul, funk, and contemporary R&B, their music became a soundtrack to countless lives, bridging generations and solidifying their legacy as one of the greatest groups in R&B history.
A Mentor to Music’s Biggest Stars
While many know Wiggins for his work with Tony! Toni! Toné!, his impact behind the scenes was just as profound. Through his Grass Roots Entertainment company, he played a critical role in shaping the careers of emerging artists.
Among his most notable contributions was mentoring a young Beyoncé and Destiny’s Child during their early years. He also worked with future stars like Zendaya and H.E.R., helping them refine their artistry and navigate the industry.
Wiggins never sought the spotlight for these contributions—his passion was in developing talent and ensuring that authentic, heartfelt music continued to thrive.
A Bittersweet Farewell: The Reunion Tour
In 2023, fans rejoiced as Tony! Toni! Toné! announced a long-awaited reunion tour, celebrating the 30th anniversary of their groundbreaking album “Sons of Soul.”
The tour was a moment of nostalgia and celebration, as audiences packed venues to witness the group perform their iconic hits live once again. For Wiggins, it was a chance to reconnect with fans and relive the magic one last time, even as he privately faced health challenges.
A Lasting Legacy
Following his passing, Wiggins’ family released a heartfelt statement:
“D’Wayne was more than just a musician—he was a mentor, a visionary, and a beacon of inspiration. His contributions to music and his community will live on forever. Oakland lost one of its greatest sons, and the world lost a true artist.”
Tributes have poured in from artists across the industry, with many reflecting on how Wiggins shaped their careers, either directly or through the timeless music he helped create.
His legacy will live on not just in records or accolades, but in the voices of the artists he inspired, the musicians he mentored, and the generations who continue to groove to the unmistakable sound of Tony! Toni! Toné!
