D’Wayne Wiggins, Iconic Oakland Artist from Tony! Toni! Toné!, Passes Away at 64

# Legendary Musician Dwayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Toné! Passes Away at 64

The music world is mourning the loss of Dwayne Wiggins, the iconic guitarist, singer, and co-founder of the legendary R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné! Wiggins, whose soulful sound and innovative style helped define the genre in the 1980s and 1990s, passed away at the age of 64. His death has left fans and fellow artists reflecting on his immense contributions to music and culture.

## A Legacy of Soulful Hits

Dwayne Wiggins, alongside his brother Raphael Saadiq and cousin Timothy Christian Riley, formed Tony! Toni! Toné! in the late 1980s. The group quickly rose to fame with their unique blend of R&B, funk, and soul. Their music became a soundtrack for a generation, with timeless hits like:

- **"Feels Good"**
- **"Anniversary"**
- **"If I Had No Loot"**

These songs not only dominated the charts but also became staples at weddings, parties, and family gatherings. Wiggins’ smooth guitar riffs and heartfelt vocals were central to the group’s signature sound.

## A Trailblazer in the Music Industry

Wiggins was more than just a musician; he was a trailblazer. Beyond his work with Tony! Toni! Toné!, he produced and collaborated with a wide range of artists, helping to shape the sound of modern R&B. His influence extended beyond the studio, as he mentored young artists and supported emerging talent in the Bay Area music scene.

In addition to his musical achievements, Wiggins was known for his community involvement. He often used his platform to advocate for social justice and uplift underserved communities, leaving a lasting impact both on and off the stage.

## Tributes Pour In

Following the news of his passing, tributes from fans, fellow musicians, and industry insiders flooded social media. Many highlighted his kindness, creativity, and unwavering dedication to his craft.

- **Raphael Saadiq**, his brother and bandmate, shared a heartfelt message: “Dwayne was my brother, my partner, and my inspiration. His music will live on forever.”
- **Erykah Badu** tweeted, “Thank you, Dwayne, for giving us the soundtrack to our lives. Rest in power.”

## A Lasting Impact

Dwayne Wiggins’ legacy is one of innovation, passion, and authenticity. His music transcended generations, and his influence on R&B and soul music remains undeniable. While his passing leaves a void in the music world, his songs and spirit will continue to inspire and uplift for years to come.

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### What Do You Think?

- How has Tony! Toni! Toné!’s music influenced your life or your favorite artists?
- Should more musicians use their platforms to advocate for social justice, as Wiggins did?
- Do you think modern R&B has lost some of the soulfulness that Wiggins and his peers brought to the genre?
- What’s your favorite Tony! Toni! Toné! song, and why does it resonate with you?
- Is it time for a Tony! Toni! Toné! biopic to honor their legacy?

Join the conversation and share your thoughts below. Breaking Now News (BNN) would love to hear from you!