D’Wayne Wiggins, a founding member and guitarist of the legendary R&B band Tony! Toni! Toné!, has tragically passed away at the age of 64. The news was confirmed through a heartfelt statement from his family, shared on the band’s official Instagram account.
“With broken hearts, we share with you that our beloved D’Wayne passed away this morning surrounded by family and loved ones,” the statement 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.”
Wiggins’ death marks a significant loss to the music world. His contributions to the R&B genre, particularly through Tony! Toni! Toné!, impacted millions of people around the globe. Known for his skill as a guitarist, producer, composer, philanthropist, and mentor, Wiggins played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of many emerging musicians. The statement further described him as someone deeply passionate about artist development, particularly in his hometown of Oakland, California, where he mentored young talents.
Tony! Toni! Toné!, which also included members Timothy Christian Riley and Raphael Saadiq, was preparing for a performance at the Grand Theatre Center for the Arts in Tracy, California, on March 22. However, the band had recently announced that Wiggins had been sidelined with medical complications, now known to have been related to his cancer battle.
The band, which started in the mid-1980s in Oakland, went on to release several platinum albums and become one of R&B’s most beloved groups, with hits like “Feels Good,” “It Never Rains (In Southern California),” “Anniversary,” and “Let’s Get Down” featuring DJ Quik.
In the wake of his passing, Wiggins’ family has requested privacy as they mourn. “For now, we ask that you continue to respect our privacy. We mourn with you, and are deeply grateful for your love and support,” the family wrote.
Wiggins will be remembered for his remarkable contributions to music, his dedication to mentorship, and his lasting impact on the lives of his fans and fellow artists. Rest in peace, D’Wayne Wiggins.
