D’Wayne Wiggins: A Musical Trailblazer Remembered
D’Wayne Wiggins, the iconic baritone voice and founding member of the renowned R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, passed away at the age of 64 on Friday at his home in Oakland, California. His family announced that the cause of death was bladder cancer.
A Musical Legacy Established in Oakland
Born on February 14, 1961, Wiggins spent most of his life in Oakland, a city rich in musical heritage. Growing up in an environment infused with blues, funk, and hip-hop, he was heavily influenced by his father, a local blues guitarist. This vibrant cultural atmosphere shaped his musical journey.
The Formation of Tony! Toni! Toné!
In 1986, Wiggins, alongside his half-brother Charles Ray Wiggins—who later became known as Raphael Saadiq—and their cousin Timothy Christian Riley, created the band Tony! Toni! Toné!. They began their musical careers performing in the San Francisco Bay Area before releasing their debut album, Who?, in 1988.
Breaking Ground with Their Debut Album
The album quickly resonated with audiences, propelled by the success of its lead single “Little Walter,” which topped the Billboard R&B chart. Who? achieved gold certification, further solidifying the trio’s emerging presence in the music industry.
Exploring New Musical Horizons
While their debut leaned towards traditional blues, subsequent albums showcased a broader range of musical influences. Their sophomore release, The Revival (1990), featured the hit “Feels Good,” which dominated the Billboard R&B chart and broke into the Top 10 of the Hot 100. This evolution into a fusion of R&B, hip-hop, and dance-pop contributed to the New Jack Swing movement.
Defying Musical Labels
Despite frequent suggestions that they adhered to traditional R&B formats due to their use of classic instruments and arrangements, Wiggins was adamant about their innovative approach. In a 2017 interview with The Chicago Tribune, he stated, “A lot of writers and very seasoned musicians stay stuck in their zone and don’t want to branch out and don’t want to accept when it’s new. I like pulling it into the fold.”
Influence and Contributions Beyond Performance
Wiggins and his collaborators not only created music but also fostered emerging talent in the industry. In 1995, he founded Grass Roots Entertainment and opened House of Music, a studio that became instrumental for artists like Destiny’s Child, Keyshia Cole, and India.Arie. They often credited Wiggins as a vital mentor during their formative years.
A Lasting Impact on Future Generations
Despite the band’s dissolution following their fourth album, House of Music (1996), Wiggins remained active in the music scene. The original lineup of Tony! Toni! Toné! briefly reunited for a concert in 2019 and again in 2023, showcasing their lasting appeal and connection with fans.
Remembering D’Wayne Wiggins
D’Wayne Wiggins is survived by his brother, Raphael Saadiq, and a son, Dylan. His contributions to the music world will continue to resonate with fans and fellow artists alike as they reflect on the legacy he leaves behind.
