D\u2019Wayne Wiggins, the singer and guitarist of the renowned R&B group Tony! Toni! Ton\u00e9!, has passed away at the age of 64 after a private battle with bladder cancer, his family announced on the group\u2019s official social media accounts on Friday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved D\u2019Wayne this morning, surrounded by family and loved ones,\u201d the statement read.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cOver the past year, he courageously fought cancer while remaining dedicated to his family, music, fans, and community.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wiggins co-founded the group in 1986 in Oakland, California, alongside his half-brother Raphael Saadiq (bass\/vocals) and cousin Timothy Christian Riley (drums\/keyboards).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tony! Toni! Ton\u00e9! rose to fame as part of the New Jack Swing movement, delivering hits like \u201cFeels Good,\u201d \u201cAnniversary,\u201d and \u201cIt Never Rains (in Southern California),\u201d which have since become timeless classics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Though the group eventually pursued solo projects, they remained close, reuniting for a tour in 2023 after 25 years. Reflecting on their bond, Wiggins told a source, \u201cBeing on stage together is like being at home in our living room. Timing is everything.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Beyond his music, Wiggins was a mentor and philanthropist, shaping the careers of artists like Destiny\u2019s Child, H.E.R., Keyshia Cole, and Alicia Keys. His family described him as a \u201cguitarist, producer, composer, and visionary\u201d who created spaces for artists to thrive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cD\u2019Wayne\u2019s life and music touched millions worldwide, and his legacy will live on through his contributions to the industry and his community,\u201d they wrote. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Plans for a memorial service to honor his life and pioneering impact are underway, with details to be shared soon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The news of his passing followed an earlier post about Wiggins facing \u201cmedical complications.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n