According to Pitchfork, D’Wayne Wiggins of soul/R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné! has tragically passed away at the age of 64 after a battle with bladder cancer. The confirmation of his death was made in social media posts on the band’s and Wiggins’ personal pages.
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The statement laments the loss of Wiggins, praising him as a passionate individual who thrived in the creative musical space and whose goal was to ultimately aid younger, aspiring artists and musicians on their journey to success. His family also expressed his legacy beyond being a founding member of Tony! Toni! Toné!, eulogizing him as a guitarist, producer, composer, philanthropist and mentor.
The statement offers, “With broken hearts, we share with you that our beloved D’Wayne passed away this morning surrounded by family and loved ones. D’Wayne’s life was incomparable, and his music and service impacted millions around the world, including in his hometown of Oakland, California.”
Wiggins started the group back in the 80s with his brother Raphael Saadiq and his cousin Timothy Christian Riley, they revolutionized a plethora of genres ranging from R&B, hip hop, dance and jazz which eventually coalesced into what would become known as new jack swing. The trio put out their debut album in 1988 entitled Who? which was actually certified gold by the RIAA. Their 90s classic track “Feels Good” earned reached Platinum status.
Aside from his work with Tony! Toni! Toné!, he helped produce songs for Destiny’s Child, Christina Aguilera and Alicia Keys. He also released his debut solo album Eyes Never Lie in 2000 which included collaborations with Carlos Santana and Darius Rucker among others.
