The musician’s family announced his death via a statement on social media on Friday. Earlier in the week, they revealed he was struggling with medical complications, though they didn’t specify what he was dealing with.
Wiggins’ illness led to the cancellation of some shows his band was scheduled to appear in later this month.
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D’Wayne Wiggins’ Family Announces His Death
On Friday, the guitarist’s family announced his passing via a statement on his Instagram page.
The statement began, “With broken hearts, we share with you that our beloved D’Wayne passed away this morning surrounded by family and loved ones.”
They continued, “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.”
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D’Wayne Wiggins’ Family Pays Tribute To Him
The Wiggins family added, “D’Wayne’s life was incomparable, and his music and service impacted millions around the world, including in his hometown of Oakland, California.”
They also wrote, “He was a guitarist, producer, composer, philanthropist, mentor and founding member of Tony! Toni! Tone! He was deeply passionate about providing artist development and mentorship to emerging young musicians, helping to shape the early careers of many.”
The statement concluded, “For now, we ask that you continue to respect our privacy. We mourn with you, and are deeply grateful for your love and support.”
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The City Of Oakland Eulogizes D’Wayne Wiggins
Wiggins’ band, Tony! Toni! Toné!, is based in Oakland, and the city paid tribute to him by commenting on the post announcing his death.
The City of Oakland wrote, “The world has lost a true legend, but Oakland has lost one of its own. Dwayne Wiggins was more than an artist—he was a visionary, a mentor, and a champion for his community.”
They added, “His influence stretched across the globe, yet he remained deeply rooted in the city that shaped him. Through his music, leadership, and unwavering dedication, he uplifted generations and left an indelible mark on our hearts.”
The City of Oakland concluded, “We are devastated by his passing but forever grateful for the light he shared with us all.”
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Wiggins’ Family Reveals He Is ‘Experiencing Medical Complications’
On Wednesday, Wiggins’ family brought the world’s attention to his health struggles, revealing he was facing “medical complications.”
They made the revelation via a statement on his Instagram page. The statement began, “We wanted to share that D’Wayne Wiggins is experiencing medical complications. He is working through it one day at a time.”
Wiggins’ family added, “We know how beloved he is by so many, and we are grateful for your prayers and concern.”
They concluded, “We also request that you respect the family’s privacy during this time.”
Before the Wiggins family’s statement, rumors and unverified reports about his health spread on the internet, with some posts suggesting he was being cared for in a hospice while others reported he had died.
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Due to the rumors, many fans and colleagues of Wiggins became concerned, though his family’s statement clarified his health status.
Wiggins’ Career And Impact In Music
D’Wayne Wiggins was an influential American singer, guitarist, and producer, best known as the founding member of the R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!
Born in Oakland, California, Wiggins grew up in East Oakland and attended Castlemont High School. The group he founded achieved significant success with 14 Billboard-charting singles, including five number-one hits and two platinum albums. They sold over six million albums in total and toured internationally.
In addition to his work with Tony! Toni! Toné!, Wiggins established Grass Roots Entertainment and signed Destiny’s Child in 1995, helping them become one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. He also worked with artists like Keyshia Cole, Laurneá, and Jody Watley and was instrumental in shaping the neo-soul movement.
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Wiggins’ solo work, including his 2000 album “Eyes Never Lie,” developed the genre. He also collaborated with artists from Oakland’s “Hyphy” movement and Alicia Keys, earning a Grammy for his contributions.
Tony! Toni! Toné! was set to perform at the Grand Theatre Center for the Arts in Tracy on March 22, but the show has been canceled, according to the venue. The venue previously stated that the cancellation was due to illness.
Additionally, the band was billed to perform at the Music Hall Center in Detroit on May 23, but this show has been canceled as well, according to Ticketmaster.
