D’Wayne Wiggins, of the influential R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, passed away!

K Wilder
Mar 8
2 min read

Born on February 14, 1961, in Oakland, California, D’Wayne Patrice Wiggins grew up in the vibrant Lower Bottoms neighborhood of West Oakland before attending Castlemont High School in East Oakland. In 1986, he co-founded Tony! Toni! Toné! alongside his brother Raphael Saadiq and cousin Timothy Christian Riley. The trio quickly rose to prominence, blending R&B, hip-hop, pop, dance, and jazz to create a distinctive sound that resonated with a wide audience.

Tony! Toni! Toné! released their debut album, “Who?”, in 1988, featuring hits like “Little Walter” and “Baby Doll.” Their 1990 follow-up, “The Revival,” achieved platinum status, propelled by chart-toppers such as “Feels Good” and “It Never Rains (In Southern California).” The 1993 album “Sons of Soul” garnered a Grammy nomination, with standout tracks like “If I Had No Loot” and “Anniversary.” The group’s final album, “House of Music,” was released in 1996 before they went on hiatus.

Beyond his performances, Wiggins was deeply committed to nurturing new talent. Through his company, Grass Roots Entertainment, he played a pivotal role in the early careers of artists such as Destiny’s Child, Zendaya, and H.E.R. His Oakland-based studio, “House of Music,” became a creative hub for emerging musicians, reflecting his dedication to artist development.

In 2000, Wiggins released his solo album, “Eyes Never Lie,” which featured collaborations with artists like Carlos Santana and Darius Rucker. He also contributed to works by prominent musicians, including Alicia Keys, further showcasing his versatility and influence in the music industry.

Tony! Toni! Toné! reunited in 2023 for the “Just Me and You Tour,” rekindling the magic that had endeared them to fans worldwide. Wiggins’ enduring impact on music, particularly within the Oakland community, is profound. His family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, stating, “D’Wayne’s life was incomparable, and his music and service impacted millions around the world, including in his hometown of Oakland,

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