D’Wayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Toné! passes away from cancer

D’Wayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Toné! Passes Away at 64: A Tribute to His Life and Legacy

The music world has been struck by the heartbreaking news of D’Wayne Wiggins’ passing on March 7, 2025, at the age of 64. The legendary musician, singer, guitarist, and producer was a founding member of the iconic 1990s soul and R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!. Known for his immense contribution to the music industry, Wiggins’ passing after a battle with bladder cancer marks the end of an era for fans and fellow artists alike. As the tragic news spreads, this article takes a closer look at Wiggins’ career, his impact on music, and the legacy he leaves behind.

D’Wayne Wiggins: The Legacy of Tony! Toni! Toné!

Tony! Toni! Toné! was not just a band—it was a musical movement that defined the 1990s R&B scene. The group, formed in the late 1980s, skyrocketed to fame with a string of hits that topped the Billboard R&B charts. Wiggins, along with fellow founding members Raphael Saadiq and Timothy Christian Riley, revolutionized the sound of soul and R&B with their innovative blend of funk, jazz, and classic Motown influences.

With 14 Billboard-charting R&B singles, including five number one hits, the group became one of the most influential acts of their time. They are credited with helping to shape the sound of the new jack swing and neo-soul movements. Their albums garnered commercial success, with multiple platinum certifications and over six million copies sold worldwide. Hits like “It Never Rains (In Southern California)” and “If I Had No Loot” became anthems for a generation, and Tony! Toni! Toné! continues to be celebrated by fans old and new.

The Power of Collaboration: D’Wayne Wiggins’ Influence in the Music Industry

Though Wiggins was best known for his work with Tony! Toni! Toné!, his influence went far beyond the group. As a producer and mentor, Wiggins had a significant impact on several major artists and groups that followed in his footsteps.

One of his most notable achievements was signing Destiny’s Child to his record label, Grass Roots Entertainment, in 1995. Under his mentorship, the group would go on to become the best-selling female group of all time, with over 60 million records sold globally. Wiggins played an integral role in the early development of Destiny’s Child, co-producing tracks for their albums, which became staples of late ‘90s and early 2000s R&B music.

Beyond Destiny’s Child, Wiggins also worked with a host of other artists, helping them navigate their careers. His “House of Music” recording studio in West Oakland became a hub for musical talent, attracting a diverse range of musicians and producers, including Alicia Keys, Beyoncé, and Jamie Foxx. Wiggins worked with these artists, providing guidance and helping them shape their distinctive sounds. His influence was also felt in collaborations with other artists, such as Jody Watley, Keyshia Cole, and Laurneá, among many others.

D’Wayne Wiggins’ Solo Career: A Neo-Soul Pioneer

In addition to his work with Tony! Toni! Toné!, Wiggins pursued a solo career that helped solidify his position as a pioneer of the neo-soul genre. In 2000, he released Eyes Never Lie under Motown Records. The album featured collaborations with a variety of artists, including Darius Rucker of Hootie and the Blowfish, Jamie Foxx, and the legendary Carlos Santana.

Eyes Never Lie was more than just a collection of songs—it was an album that helped lay the groundwork for the neo-soul movement, blending soulful melodies with modern production techniques. This genre, which became hugely popular in the 2000s, saw artists like Erykah Badu, Maxwell, and Jill Scott rise to prominence, and Wiggins’ contributions played a key role in shaping the sound that defined the era.

D’Wayne Wiggins’ Impact on Oakland’s Hyphy Movement

Wiggins was also an integral part of the Oakland music scene and its influence on hip-hop culture. In the early 2000s, he worked with artists associated with the “Hyphy” movement. A cultural phenomenon that emerged from the Bay Area’s underground rap scene. He contributed his musical expertise to projects by Too Short, Messy Marv, and The Coup, among others. His production and guitar skills were featured on tracks like Too Short’s How Does It Feel and Hoochie, as well as The Coup’s Pick A Bigger Weapon.

His work within this movement further solidified his reputation as a versatile and forward-thinking artist, able to cross genres and collaborate with some of the most influential figures in hip-hop.

A Legacy of Mentorship and Musical Innovation

One of the defining characteristics of D’Wayne Wiggins’ career was his commitment to nurturing young talent. He was a mentor to several artists who would go on to achieve great success in the music industry. Wiggins opened his studio doors to up-and-coming artists. Offering a space where creativity could flourish. His legacy as a mentor and innovator in the music industry is one that will continue to inspire future generations of artists.

The Final Years: A Lasting Influence on the Music World

Even in the later stages of his life, D’Wayne Wiggins remained dedicated to his craft. He continued to tour with Tony! Toni! Toné!, performing on the Just Me and You Tour in 2023. Which included his bandmates Raphael Saadiq and Timothy Christian Riley. The group, which had reunited for this tour, was still delivering electrifying performances. While captivating audiences around the world. Wiggins’ passion for music was evident until the very end. His presence will be sorely missed by fans who had the privilege of seeing him perform.

In the final months of his life, Wiggins’ health began to decline due to complications from bladder cancer. On March 5, 2025, Tony! Toni! Toné! took to social media to share the news of his condition. Asking fans to keep him in their thoughts and prayers. Sadly, just two days later, Wiggins passed away peacefully at his home in Oakland.

A Lasting Legacy

D’Wayne Wiggins’ passing is a profound loss to the music world. His contributions as a founding member of Tony! Toni! Toné!, his pioneering work in the neo-soul movement, and his mentorship of countless artists have left an indelible mark on the music industry. As fans mourn his passing, they can take comfort in the knowledge that his music and influence will continue to resonate for generations to come.

D’Wayne Wiggins’ legacy is more than just the songs he created—it is in the hearts of the artists he mentored. In addition to the innovations he brought to the world of soul and R&B. With his lasting impact on the music scene. His memory will live on in every note he played, every song he wrote, and every artist he helped shape.

Rest in peace, D’Wayne Wiggins. Your music will never be forgotten.