D’Wayne Wiggins, co-founder of Tony! Toni! Toné! and a key figure in R&B, has passed away at 64 after a private battle with bladder cancer, leaving behind a lasting musical legacy as a mentor, producer, and community leader.

The music industry has lost a true icon. D’Wayne Wiggins, the renowned guitarist, producer, and co-founder of Tony! Toni! Toné!, has passed away at the age of 64.

His death has sent shockwaves through the R&B and soul music communities, as fans and fellow artists come to terms with the loss of a man whose impact stretched far beyond the stage.

While his music brought joy to millions, few knew of the private battle he had been fighting behind the scenes.

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Born and raised in Oakland, California, Wiggins was destined for musical greatness. His early exposure to the rich Bay Area music scene helped shape his unique sound, blending old-school soul with contemporary R&B.

In the late 1980s, alongside his half-brother Raphael Saadiq and cousin Timothy Christian Riley, he formed Tony! Toni! Toné!, a group that would redefine the genre with their innovative style.

Their debut album, Who?, introduced the world to their signature blend of funk, soul, and New Jack Swing, setting the stage for a meteoric rise.

The group’s breakthrough came with their 1990 album, The Revival, which spawned hits like Feels Good, It Never Rains (In Southern California), and Whatever You Want.

It was their 1993 album, Sons of Soul, however, that cemented their legacy. Selling over two million copies and earning a Grammy nomination, the record proved that Tony! Toni! Toné! was not just a fleeting success but a defining force in R&B.

Their ability to merge classic soul influences with modern production techniques set them apart, making them one of the most influential acts of the decade.

Despite their incredible success, tensions within the group led to their disbandment in the mid-90s. While Raphael Saadiq embarked on a solo career, Wiggins remained deeply involved in music, transitioning into a mentor and producer for the next generation of artists.

His House of Music studio in Oakland became a creative haven for emerging talent, including Destiny’s Child, Alicia Keys, India.Arie, and Keyshia Cole. Wiggins had a keen ear for talent and was instrumental in shaping the early careers of several future superstars.

In 2000, he released his solo album, Eyes Never Lie, which featured collaborations with artists like Jamie Foxx, Darius Rucker, and Carlos Santana.

While it didn’t reach the commercial heights of his work with Tony! Toni! Toné!, it showcased his versatility as an artist and his unwavering commitment to authentic music. He continued to tour and perform, keeping the spirit of the group alive for loyal fans.

Beyond his contributions to the industry, Wiggins was deeply committed to his community. He spearheaded several initiatives aimed at supporting young musicians in Oakland, believing that music could be a transformative force in people’s lives.

His passion for education and mentorship made him a beloved figure, not just in the music world but also in his hometown.

In recent years, whispers of a Tony! Toni! Toné! reunion began to circulate. Fans were ecstatic when, in 2023, Wiggins and Riley reunited for the Sons of Soul 30th-anniversary tour.

Though Saadiq was initially hesitant, he eventually joined them on stage for select performances, giving audiences a long-awaited glimpse of the group’s magic.

The tour was a resounding success, proving that their music remained as powerful as ever.

What many didn’t know, however, was that Wiggins had been battling a serious illness. In the months leading up to his death, he kept his struggles private, choosing to focus on his music and loved ones rather than sharing his pain with the public.

It wasn’t until after his passing that his family revealed he had been fighting bladder cancer.

His resilience in the face of adversity spoke volumes about his character—always putting his craft and his fans first, even in his darkest moments.

Tributes have poured in from across the industry. Fellow musicians, friends, and protégés have taken to social media to express their sorrow and gratitude.

Sheila E. called him “one of the kindest, most brilliant musicians” she had ever met, while H.E.R. credited him for helping shape her into the artist she is today.

The overwhelming outpouring of love is a testament to the profound impact he had, not just as a musician but as a mentor and friend.

D’Wayne Wiggins’ story is one of passion, perseverance, and profound influence. He was a visionary who helped shape an era of music, a mentor who lifted others up, and a dedicated artist who never stopped creating.

While his passing marks the end of an incredible journey, his legacy will live on through the music he made and the lives he touched.

For those who grew up on the sounds of Tony! Toni! Toné!, his voice and his guitar will forever be part of the soundtrack of their lives.