FAREWELL TO A LEGEND: D’WAYNE WIGGINS OF TONY! TONI! TONÉ! PASSES AWAY AT 64
The world of R&B has lost one of its most iconic figures. D’Wayne Wiggins, the soulful guitarist of Oakland’s legendary Tony! Toni! Toné!, has passed away at the age of 64 after a private battle with bladder cancer, his family confirmed Friday.
A Silent Battle, A Public Legacy
Just days before his passing, the band shared that Wiggins was facing “medical complications” but remained tight-lipped about the severity of his condition. Now, as fans and fellow artists mourn, the true weight of his struggle has come to light.
“With broken hearts, we share with you that our beloved D’Wayne passed away this morning surrounded by family and loved ones,” the Wiggins family announced on Instagram. “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.”
His impact on music, culture, and his beloved Oakland is undeniable. His family described his life as “incomparable,” a fitting tribute to a man who shaped the R&B sound of an era.
Tour Dates Canceled as Fans Come to Terms with the Loss
The band was originally scheduled to perform at the Grand Theatre Center for the Arts in Tracy on March 22, but the event had been quietly canceled due to Wiggins’ health. A second scheduled performance at Detroit’s Music Hall Center on May 23 was also called off, per Ticketmaster.
Fans now realize those cancellations weren’t just logistical—behind the scenes, one of R&B’s most beloved musicians was fighting for his life.
An Outpouring of Love from the Music Community
Tributes have flooded in from fellow musicians and entertainers, honoring Wiggins’ influence and kind spirit. Oakland’s own Sheila E. expressed her sorrow:
“Heartbreaking news, my brother D’Wayne Wiggins passed away this morning,” she wrote. “He was the most amazing, kind person. He loved life, music, and people. My brother, you will forever be missed. Your music will live forever. Rest in peace, my brother.”
Former San Francisco Mayor London Breed also paid tribute: “A true legend with a heart of gold. You brought so much love and joy to the world with your music and your beautiful spirit. You will be missed and never, ever forgotten.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Wiggins, a founding member of Tony! Toni! Toné!, helped craft some of the most memorable R&B hits of the late ‘80s and ‘90s. The group’s signature blend of classic soul, funk, and contemporary R&B produced chart-toppers like Feels Good, Anniversary, and It Never Rains (In Southern California)—songs that still spark nostalgia and dominate playlists today.
His contributions to the industry extended beyond his own performances. Wiggins played a major role in shaping the careers of other artists, mentoring and producing for the next generation of talent.
Now, fans and loved ones are left cherishing the music and moments he gave the world, ensuring that D’Wayne Wiggins’ legacy will continue to live on.
Rest in power, legend.
