- Founding member of Tony! Toni! Toné! dies at 64 after battling bladder cancer
- Co-created timeless hits like Anniversaryand It Never Rains (In Southern California)
- Mentored stars including Zendaya, H.E.R., and Kehlani during his career
- Group reunited in 2023 after nearly 30 years for a landmark tour
The music world mourns the loss of D’Wayne Wiggins, a pivotal force in the New Jack Swing movement and co-founder of the iconic R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!. Wiggins passed away at 64 following a year-long battle with bladder cancer, as confirmed by his family. His contributions to 1990s R&B, including chart-toppers like Feels Goodand Whatever You Want,cemented the group’s legacy as Oakland-bred pioneers who blended soul, jazz, and gospel into groundbreaking tracks.
Beyond his artistry, Wiggins dedicated himself to nurturing emerging talent. He played a key role in shaping the careers of Grammy winner H.E.R., actress-singer Zendaya, and R&B star Kehlani, emphasizing Oakland’s enduring influence on music innovation. His philanthropic efforts included establishing local youth music programs, reinforcing his commitment to community.
Tony! Toni! Toné!’s 2023 reunion tour marked a heartfelt resolution to decades of tension between original members. Raphael Saadiq, Wiggins’ brother, spearheaded the reconciliation, ensuring their final collaborations honored their shared history. The group’s resurgence also highlighted the timeless appeal of New Jack Swing, inspiring contemporary artists to revisit the genre’s rhythmic textures.
Wiggins’ battle with cancer underscored his resilience. Despite his diagnosis, he continued producing music and supporting family-led initiatives until his final days. His passing leaves a void in R&B, but his mentorship and genre-defining sound ensure his impact endures.
