The music world lost a true icon on March 7, 2024, when D’Wayne Wiggins, the co-founding member of the iconic R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, passed away at the age of 64. Known for his soulful voice and masterful guitar skills, Wiggins left an indelible mark on the music industry. His family and bandmates shared the heartbreaking news, revealing that he had been battling bladder cancer privately and courageously over the past year.
D’Wayne Wiggins: A Life in Music
D’Wayne Wiggins was more than just a musician; he was a visionary who helped shape the sound of R&B and soul music in the late 1980s and 1990s. Born and raised in Oakland, California, Wiggins co-founded Tony! Toni! Toné! with his half-brother Raphael Saadiq and cousin Timothy Christian Riley in 1986. The trio quickly became known for their unique blend of funk, soul, R&B, and gospel influences.
The Formation of Tony! Toni! Toné!
In 1987, Tony! Toni! Toné! released their debut single, “One Night Stand,” which set the stage for their rise to fame. The following year, they signed with Wing Records and released their first album, “Who?,” which featured the hit single “Little Walter.” This song showcased the band’s signature sound and became a staple of the New Jack Swing movement.
Chart-Topping Success
The band’s success continued with their second album, “The Revival,” released in 1990. The album’s lead single, “Feels Good,” became a feel-good dance anthem and reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Tony! Toni! Toné! followed up with “Sons of Soul” in 1993, which featured their highest-charting single, “If I Had No Loot,” sampling Ice Cube’s work and reaching No. 7 on the Hot 100.
Final Studio Album and Beyond
Their final studio album, “House of Music,” was released in 1996 and hit No. 32 on the Billboard 200 chart. Throughout their career, Tony! Toni! Toné! achieved five No. 1 hits on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and seven top 10 singles. After a brief hiatus, the group reunited in 2003 to collaborate with Alicia Keys on her Grammy-nominated song “Diary.” They also embarked on a U.S. reunion tour in 2023 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of “Sons of Soul.”
D’Wayne Wiggins’ Solo Career and Collaborations
Beyond his work with Tony! Toni! Toné!, D’Wayne Wiggins pursued a solo career and collaborated with various artists. In 2000, he released his solo album, “Eyes Never Lie,” which charted at No. 197 on the Billboard 200. The album’s single, “What’s Really Going On (Strange Fruit),” reached No. 84 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.
Wiggins also made significant contributions to the music industry through his work with other artists. He served as the bandleader for comedian D.L. Hughley’s short-lived Comedy Central series, “Weekends at the D.L.” Additionally, Wiggins played a crucial role in shaping the early career of Destiny’s Child, producing several tracks for the group before they signed with Columbia Records.
Influence on the Hyphy Movement
D’Wayne Wiggins’ influence extended beyond R&B and soul. He was a major promoter of Oakland’s late ’90s “hyphy” hip-hop offshoot, contributing his vocal talents to fellow East Bay native Too $hort’s singles “Hoochie” (1992) and “How Does It Feel” (1999). Wiggins also lent his elegant guitar playing to “BabyLet’sHaveABabyBeforeBushDoSomethin’Crazy” by The Coup on their 2006 album “Pick a Bigger Weapon.”
A Legacy of Resilience and Dedication
Throughout his battle with bladder cancer, D’Wayne Wiggins remained committed to his family, music, fans, and community. His family and bandmates praised his courage and dedication, noting that he faced his illness with grace and strength. Wiggins’ passing was announced on Instagram by Tony! Toni! Toné!, who shared their grief and gratitude for the love and support from fans worldwide.
Remembering D’Wayne Wiggins
D’Wayne Wiggins’ legacy will live on through his music and the countless lives he touched. His contributions to R&B, soul, and hip-hop have left an enduring impact on the music industry. Fans and fellow musicians alike will remember him for his soulful voice, masterful guitar skills, and unwavering dedication to his craft.
The Impact of Tony! Toni! Toné!
Tony! Toni! Toné!’s influence on the music industry cannot be overstated. Their unique sound, blending elements of funk, soul, R&B, and gospel, helped define the New Jack Swing era. The group’s success paved the way for future R&B and soul artists, inspiring a new generation of musicians.
Key Achievements
- Five No. 1 hits on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart
- Seven top 10 singles on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart
- Highest-charting single, “If I Had No Loot,” reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100
- Collaborations with Alicia Keys and Destiny’s Child
- Influence on the hyphy hip-hop movement in Oakland
Honoring D’Wayne Wiggins’ Memory
As we mourn the loss of D’Wayne Wiggins, we also celebrate his remarkable life and career. His music brought joy to millions and will continue to inspire future generations. Fans can honor his memory by listening to Tony! Toni! Toné!’s timeless hits and sharing stories of how his music touched their lives.
In the wake of Wiggins’ passing, tributes have poured in from across the music industry. Fellow musicians, fans, and friends have shared their memories and expressed their gratitude for his contributions. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the music that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
The Enduring Power of Music
D’Wayne Wiggins’ story is a testament to the enduring power of music. Through his talent, dedication, and resilience, he created a body of work that will stand the test of time. His journey reminds us that music has the power to heal, inspire, and bring people together, even in the face of adversity.
As we say goodbye to a true legend, let us remember D’Wayne Wiggins for the joy he brought into the world and the legacy he leaves behind. His music will continue to live on, reminding us of the transformative power of art and the indomitable spirit of a true artist.
Source: www.billboard.com