🙏🏽RIP Dwayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Tone! A Cultural Icon

D’Wayne Wiggins: The Soulful Visionary Behind Tony! Toni! Toné!

When we think of timeless R&B, few groups have left a mark as deep and enduring as Tony! Toni! Toné! With their seamless blend of soul, funk, and classic rhythm and blues, the trio—D’Wayne Wiggins, Raphael Saadiq, and Timothy Christian Riley—defined an era and set the standard for musical authenticity. But beyond the group’s chart-topping hits and smooth harmonies, D’Wayne Wiggins has played a pivotal role in shaping the culture—not just through music, but also through business and philanthropy.

Wiggins' influence extends far beyond performing. His Oakland-based studio, House of Music, became a creative hub where he mentored rising talent, including platinum-selling artists like Destiny’s Child, Alicia Keys, Keyshia Cole, and Goapele. He helped shape the sounds of the next generation, proving that true artistry is about legacy—building up others and passing down knowledge. 

Below is an image of Jahva House, owned and operated by D’Wayne Wiggins. This was the first place I ever experienced slam poetry—and where I truly fell in love with the art form.

As the guitarist, co-founder, and creative force behind Tony! Toni! Toné!, Wiggins infused the group's sound with a raw, organic feel that stood out in the New Jack Swing-dominated late ‘80s and early ‘90s. With classic albums like Who?, The Revival, and Sons of Soul, the Tonies gave us unforgettable songs like "It Never Rains (In Southern California)," "Anniversary," and "Feels Good." Their music wasn’t just about radio hits—it was a movement, celebrating love, culture, and Black excellence.

One of my favorite hits, "Lovin’ You," beautifully showcases the group's vocal mastery and pure instrumental talent. With its timeless sound, the track pays homage to the legendary groups that came before, blending classic soul with their signature style.

Released in 1993 as part of their critically acclaimed album Sons of Soul, "Anniversary" remains one of Tony! Toni! Toné!’s most beloved and enduring tracks."Anniversary" became a defining song of the ‘90s R&B era, resonating with couples and music lovers alike. Its influence can still be felt today, as it remains a go-to song for weddings, anniversaries, and romantic celebrations. The song solidified Tony! Toni! Toné!’s place as masters of soulful storytelling, proving that real instruments, heartfelt lyrics, and timeless melodies never go out of style.

Wiggins' influence extends far beyond performing. His Oakland-based studio, House of Music, became a creative hub where he mentored rising talent, including platinum-selling artists like Destiny’s Child, Alicia Keys, Keyshia Cole, and Goapele. He helped shape the sounds of the next generation, proving that true artistry is about legacy—building up others and passing down knowledge.

A proud son of Oakland, Wiggins has always been committed to uplifting his community. Through music programs, youth mentorship, and local initiatives, he has worked to provide opportunities for aspiring artists, particularly young Black musicians looking for a way to express themselves and break into the industry. His dedication to preserving the essence of soul and R&B while fostering new talent is a testament to his vision: that music should not only entertain but also educate, inspire, and uplift.

D’Wayne Wiggins’ contributions to music and culture run deep—far beyond the nostalgic hits of Tony! Toni! Toné! He embodies the spirit of artistic integrity, cultural pride, and generational impact. Whether through his unforgettable melodies, his business acumen, or his dedication to community, Wiggins continues to be a force in keeping soul music alive.

As a Bay Area native, I deeply appreciate the impact Tony! Toni! Toné! had on our cultural development, and I truly cherish D’Wayne Wiggins' contributions to music and the community.🙏🏽🌟