Wiggins and the band -- including Timothy Christian Riley and Raphael Saadiq -- were scheduled to perform at the Grand Theatre Center for the Arts in Tracy, California on March 22 ... but the group released a statement a couple days ago revealing Wiggins had been sidelined with medical complications -- we know now to be his cancer. Tony! Toni! Toné! got their start on the Oakland scene in the mid-1980s and went on to release several platinum albums that included iconic R&B hits such as "Feels Good," "It Never Rains (In Southern California)," "Anniversary," and "Let's Get Down" featuring DJ Quik. Wiggins was 64.
D'Wayne Wiggins, the guitarist of Oakland's own Tony! Toni! Toné!, has died after a battle with bladder cancer, his family announced Friday.
His family confirmed the devastating news in a social media post as they revealed the performer passed away on Friday morning 'surrounded by family and loved ones. Over the past year, he has been privately and courageously battling bladder cancer. Through this fight, he remained committed and present for his family, his music, his fans and his community,' they revealed to his fans. The R&B legend's family continued: 'D’Wayne’s life was incomparable, and his music and service impacted millions around the world, including in his hometown of Oakland, California.' They went on to reflect on how Wiggins 'was deeply passionate about providing artist development and mentorship to emerging young musicians, helping to shape the early careers of many. For now, we ask that you continue to respect our privacy. We mourn with you, and are deeply grateful for your love and support,' they concluded.
