D’Wayne Wiggins, co-founder of the iconic R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, left an indelible mark on the music industry with his soulful melodies and timeless hits. Known for his contributions to classics like “Feels Good” and “Anniversary,” Wiggins was a true pioneer in the R&B genre. Tragically, he passed away at the age of 64 in March 2025, following a private battle with bladder cancer. As fans mourn his loss, many are curious about his personal life and the wealth he amassed throughout his successful career. In this article, we explore D’Wayne Wiggins’ net worth, career achievements, and legacy.
Early Life and Musical Journey
Born on February 14, 1961, in Oakland, California, D’Wayne Wiggins grew up surrounded by music. His passion for the art form was evident from a young age, and it was in Oakland where he began to hone his craft as a musician and songwriter. Inspired by the rich soul and funk scenes in the Bay Area, Wiggins co-founded Tony! Toni! Toné! in 1988 alongside his brother Raphael Saadiq and cousin Timothy Christian Riley.
The group quickly rose to fame with their debut album Who?, which included the hit single “Little Walter.” Their sound, characterized by a blend of classic soul, R&B, and contemporary funk, struck a chord with audiences nationwide. Over the years, Tony! Toni! Toné! released several successful albums, including The Revival (1990), Sons of Soul (1993), and House of Music (1996), earning multiple platinum certifications and critical acclaim.
Building Wealth: D’Wayne Wiggins’ Net Worth
As of 2025, D’Wayne Wiggins’ net worth was estimated to be $10 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. His wealth was primarily built through his music career, both as a member of Tony! Toni! Toné! and as a producer and songwriter for other artists. The group’s albums sold millions of copies worldwide, and their tours and royalties from enduring hits contributed significantly to Wiggins’ financial success.
In addition to his work with Tony! Toni! Toné!, Wiggins expanded his portfolio through various business ventures and production credits. He founded Grass Roots Entertainment, a production company in Oakland, where he nurtured new talent and contributed to the local music scene. One of his notable accomplishments was discovering and mentoring Destiny’s Child during their early years, helping them secure a record deal that would launch their path to superstardom.
Wiggins also produced and wrote songs for other artists, further diversifying his income streams. His ability to create chart-topping hits and his understanding of the music industry’s business side played a crucial role in accumulating his net worth.
The Personal Side: Marriage and Family
D’Wayne Wiggins was known for keeping his personal life relatively private. He was married to Michelle Wiggins for 12 years before their divorce in 2013. According to TMZ, Michelle filed for divorce citing irreconcilable differences. The couple shared two sons, whom Michelle sought custody of following their separation.
Despite the challenges in his personal life, Wiggins remained a devoted father. He often spoke about his love for his children and the importance of family, values that were evident in the soulful and heartfelt lyrics of his songs. His commitment to maintaining a balance between his music career and his responsibilities as a father was something his fans admired deeply.
A Private Battle with Cancer
D’Wayne Wiggins’ passing in March 2025 came as a shock to many. His family revealed that he had been privately battling bladder cancer, a struggle he chose to keep away from the public eye. On March 7, 2025, Tony! Toni! Toné!’s Instagram account shared a heartfelt statement confirming his death, expressing their profound grief and celebrating his life’s work.
“With broken hearts, we share with you that our beloved D’Wayne passed away this morning surrounded by family and loved ones,” the statement read. “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.”
His family described his life as “incomparable,” emphasizing the impact his music and service had on millions worldwide, especially in his hometown of Oakland. Wiggins’ ability to maintain his artistic commitments even in the face of personal health challenges is a testament to his resilience and dedication to his craft.
A Lasting Legacy in Music
D’Wayne Wiggins’ influence extended far beyond his own discography. As a co-founder of Tony! Toni! Toné!, he helped shape the sound of 90s R&B, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans old and new. Tracks like “It Never Rains (In Southern California)” and “Whatever You Want” remain staples on R&B playlists today, a reflection of the timeless quality of his music.
His contributions to the music industry were not just confined to performance and production. Through Grass Roots Entertainment, Wiggins played a pivotal role in fostering new talent and giving back to the Oakland community. His mentorship of rising stars and his efforts to elevate the Bay Area’s music scene have left a lasting impact that will be remembered for years to come.
Final Thoughts on D’Wayne Wiggins’ Net Worth and Legacy
D’Wayne Wiggins’ $10 million net worth is a reflection of a career built on passion, talent, and smart business decisions. From his chart-topping success with Tony! Toni! Toné! to his work behind the scenes as a producer and mentor, Wiggins demonstrated a remarkable ability to navigate the music industry’s evolving landscape.
His passing is a profound loss, but his music and legacy live on through the countless artists he inspired and the fans who continue to celebrate his work. D’Wayne Wiggins’ story is one of perseverance, creativity, and a deep love for music—a legacy that will undoubtedly endure.