D’Wayne Wiggins’ Battle with Cancer
D’Wayne Wiggins, a founding member of the legendary R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, has passed away at the age of 64 after a private battle with bladder cancer. His family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement on Instagram, revealing that Wiggins spent his final moments surrounded by loved ones. Despite his diagnosis, he remained dedicated to his family, music, and community throughout his fight.
A Life of Music and Mentorship
Born and raised in Oakland, California, Wiggins played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Tony! Toni! Toné! as a guitarist, producer, and composer. The group rose to fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with hit songs like “Feels Good,” “It Never Rains (In Southern California),” “Anniversary,” and “Let’s Get Down.” Beyond his work with the band, Wiggins was passionate about mentoring young artists, helping to develop the careers of emerging musicians.
Canceled Performance and Final Days
The band—consisting of Wiggins, Raphael Saadiq, and Timothy Christian Riley—was scheduled to perform at the Grand Theatre Center for the Arts in Tracy, California, on March 22. However, just days ago, they announced that Wiggins had been sidelined due to medical complications, which have now been revealed as part of his cancer battle.
In their statement, Wiggins’ family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support while asking for privacy during this difficult time. They emphasized his lasting impact on the music industry and the countless lives he touched through his work.
