D'Wayne Wiggins: R&B Pioneer and Tony! Toni! Toné! Co-Founder Dies at 64
D'Wayne Wiggins, a pivotal member of the groundbreaking R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, passed away recently, marking the end of an era for 1990s soul music. Known for his innovative musical style and significant contributions to the genre, Wiggins was a key architect of the group's distinctive sound.
Born in Oakland, California, Wiggins formed Tony! Toni! Toné! with his brother Raphael and cousin Timothy Riley in the late 1980s. The group quickly became renowned for blending traditional R&B with contemporary soul and funk, creating hits like 'Feels Good' and 'Anniversary' that defined the era's musical landscape.
Key highlights of Wiggins' musical career include:
- Helping pioneer the New Jack Swing movement
- Writing and producing multiple chart-topping singles
- Influencing a generation of R&B and hip-hop artists
- Maintaining a successful career beyond the group's initial run
Beyond his musical achievements, Wiggins was also known for his community involvement and commitment to supporting emerging artists in Oakland. His legacy extends far beyond his musical contributions, representing a transformative period in African American musical expression.
While the specific details of his passing have not been widely disclosed, the music community has been quick to honor Wiggins' substantial impact on contemporary R&B and soul music.
