D’Wayne Wiggins, a Grammy-nominated artist and a founding member of the soul/R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné! has died. He was 64.
Wiggins’ death was announced on Friday (March 7) by both his family and Tony! Toni! Toné! In a statement shared on Instagram.
The 64-year-old had been “privately and courageously battling bladder cancer” over the last year, his family and group said.
“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.”
The statement continued, saying Wiggins’ life was “incomparable” and that his music and service impacted millions around the globe, including in his hometown of Oakland, California.
“He was a guitarist, producer, composer, philanthropist, mentor, and founding member of Tony! Toni! Toné!” the statement said. “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.”
The announcement comes just two days after Wiggins’ family said he had been “experiencing medical complications” and was “working through it…one day at a time.”
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Wiggins founded Tony! Toni! Toné! in Oakland in 1986 alongside his half-brother Raphael Saadiq (on the bass and vocals) and cousin Timothy Christian Riley (drums/keyboards).
The group released their debut single, One Night Stand, in 1987.
Their album Who? and their hit single Little Walter debuted in 1988.
The trio rose to fame with their critically acclaimed 1993 album, Sons of Soul, before releasing their fourth and final album, House of Music, in 1996.
Throughout their decade-long career, Tony! Toni! Toné! scored a string of hits in Billboard’s Top 10 R&B/hip-hop chart thanks to their “seamless fusion of new jack swing, gospel roots, and classic R&B influences,” according to their website.
The trio eventually went their separate ways in 1996 to pursue solo projects but remained close—something many other groups of their era struggled to do.
Wiggins, who played a key role in fostering the early success of Destiny’s Child through his Grass Roots Entertainment Label, released his debut solo album in 2000, featuring collaborations with Carlos Santana and Darius Rucker.
In 2003, Wiggins earned a Grammy nomination for his work on Alicia Keys’ hit single Diary.
The legendary guitarist continued touring with Tony! Toni! Toné! and in 2023, Saadiq, 58, reunited with the group for a highly anticipated reunion tour.
