Remembering D’Wayne Wiggins: A Musical Legacy

D’Wayne Wiggins, co-founder of the Grammy-nominated R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, has passed away at the age of 64. The musician, known for his influential contributions to the 1990s music scene through hits like “Anniversary” and “It Never Rains (In Southern California),” succumbed to bladder cancer on Friday morning, as announced by his family via social media.

A Life of Influence and Passion

In a heartfelt statement, his family reflected on Wiggins’ extraordinary life, highlighting his impact on millions globally, particularly in his hometown of Oakland, California. “D’Wayne’s life was incomparable,” they shared, noting his roles as a guitarist, producer, composer, philanthropist, and mentor. His commitment to nurturing emerging talents profoundly shaped the careers of many young musicians.

An Icon of the New Jack Swing Era

D’Wayne Wiggins served both as a vocalist and bass guitarist for Tony! Toni! Toné!, a group that also featured his brother, Raphael Saadiq, and cousin, Christian Riley. The trio played a pivotal role in the New Jack Swing movement, skillfully fusing R&B, jazz, and gospel influences. Their journey began with the release of their debut album, Who?, in 1988, featuring tracks like “Baby Doll” and “Little Walter.”

However, it was their 1990 hit “Feels Good” that catapulted them to mainstream fame, reaching No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Their subsequent albums delivered an array of party anthems and soul-stirring ballads, solidifying their status in the Black music landscape. The iconic “It Never Rains (In Southern California)” was actually a cover of a classic by British artist Albert Hammond, showcasing their ability to reinterpret and revive cherished melodies.

Challenges and Resilience

Despite their initial success, the interpersonal dynamics within the group began to strain, leading them to part ways after their fourth studio album, House of Music, in 1996. Factors such as fame and creative differences contributed to their separation. Yet, Wiggins continued to tour under the group’s name alongside Riley from 1998 to 2018, bringing in Amar Khalil as the lead vocalist during this period.

Beyond performing, Wiggins dedicated his talents to producing and mentoring burgeoning artists, influencing names like Zendaya, H.E.R., and Kehlani, as well as Destiny’s Child. This commitment to fostering new talent highlighted his passion for music and community.

A Reunion and Looking Ahead

In a significant turn of events, Wiggins and his bandmates reconciled, embarking on a tour in 2023. This marked the first collaboration involving all three original members in nearly three decades. They collectively pledged to prioritize their musical unity over external pressures from the industry, recognizing the importance of their time together.

In a recent interview with The Associated Press, Wiggins expressed enthusiasm about upcoming projects, stating, “We got a lot of material, and now we just want to make sure that we put out the right energy through our music.” This desire to create meaningful music speaks to his enduring legacy and the passion he instilled in both his craft and community.