D’Wayne Wiggins, a founding member of the Grammy-nominated group Tony! Toni! Tone! known for hits like “Anniversary,” “It Never Rains (In Southern California),” and “(Lay Your Head on My) Pillow,” has passed away at the age of 64 after a battle with bladder cancer.
Wiggins, a guitarist, producer, composer, and philanthropist, was deeply passionate about artist development and mentorship for young musicians. He was a key part of shaping the early careers of many emerging artists. Despite his fight with cancer, he remained dedicated to his family, music, fans, and community.
As a vocalist and bass guitarist for Tony! Toni! Tone!, alongside his brother Raphael Saadiq and cousin Christian Riley, Wiggins contributed to the group’s success in the New Jack Swing movement. Their hit song “Feels Good” propelled them to mainstream success in 1990, reaching No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The group’s catalog includes party hits like “Let’s Get Down” and slow jams such as “Whatever You Want” and “Anniversary.” After disbanding in 1996 due to various reasons, they reunited for a tour in 2023, showcasing new material and a renewed energy.
Wiggins also mentored and produced for artists like Zendaya, H.E.R., and Kehlani, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry. The group’s reunion marked a new chapter in their careers, emphasizing the importance of unity and creativity in their music.
In a recent interview, Wiggins expressed excitement about working on new projects with the group, bringing positive energy through their music. The legacy of Tony! Toni! Tone! lives on through their timeless music and the influence they had on aspiring musicians.
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