Photo: Getty Images
Tony! Toni! Toné! guitarist and founding member D'Wayne Wiggins has died, per TMZ. He was 64.
On Thursday (March 6), Wiggins' family announced that the musician had passed away after being diagnosed with bladder cancer.
"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. Through this fight, he remained committed and present for his family, his music, his fans and his community," the family wrote on Instagram.
"D’Wayne’s life was incomparable, and his music and service impacted millions around the world, including in his hometown of Oakland, California. 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."
"For now, we ask that you continue to respect our privacy. We mourn with you and are deeply grateful for your love and support," Wiggins' family added.
Tony! Toni! Toné! came on the scene in the mid-1980s, releasing iconic R&B hits, including "Feels Good," "It Never Rains (In Southern California)," "Anniversary," and "Let's Get Down," featuring DJ Quik.
Wiggins' death comes on the heels of a scheduled performance with his band, which includes Timothy Christian Riley and Raphael Saadiq, on March 22 at the Grand Theatre Center for Arts in Tracy, California. The group released a statement earlier this week, saying Wiggins wouldn't be performing due to medical complications.
The Black Information Network is your source for Black News! Get the latest news 24/7 on The Black Information Network. Listen now on the iHeartRadio app or click HERE to tune in live.