Tony! Toni! Toné! Guitarist D’Wayne Wiggins Passes Away After Battle with Cancer
D’Wayne Wiggins, the guitarist for Oakland’s own Tony! Toni! Toné!, has died after a courageous battle with bladder cancer, as announced by his family on Friday. The band had revealed earlier this week that Wiggins was facing “medical complications,” without providing further details about his condition.
In a heartfelt statement shared on the band’s Instagram, the family wrote, “With broken hearts, we share with you that our beloved D’Wayne passed away this morning surrounded by family and loved ones. Over the past year, he has been privately and courageously battling bladder cancer. Throughout this fight, he remained dedicated to his family, his music, his fans, and his community.”
They described Wiggins’ life as “incomparable,” highlighting the significant impact of his music and service to millions, especially in Oakland.
Wiggins was 64 years old.
The Grammy-nominated R&B band had been scheduled to perform at the Grand Theatre Center for the Arts in Tracy on March 22, but that event was canceled due to Wiggins’ illness. A performance at Detroit’s Music Hall Center on May 23 was also called off, according to Ticketmaster.
Musicians and entertainers have expressed their condolences following Wiggins’ passing, including fellow Oakland native Sheila E. She shared, “Heartbreaking news, my brother Dwayne Wiggins passed away this morning. He was the most amazing kind person. He loved life, music, and people. My brother, you will forever be missed. Your music will live forever. Rest in peace, my brother.”
Former San Francisco Mayor London Breed also paid tribute, stating, “A true legend with a heart of gold. You brought so much love and joy to the world with your music and your beautiful spirit. You will be missed and never ever forgotten.”