Duane Wiggins, a founding member of the Grammy-nominated band Tony! Toni! Tone! and the brains behind such classic 1990s hits as “Anniversary,” “It Never Rains (In Southern California)” and “(Lay Your Head on My) Pillow,” has died at the age of 64.
Wiggins passed away Friday morning after a year-long battle with bladder cancer, according to a statement posted by his family on social media.
“Duane's life was unique, and his musical legacy and dedication touched the hearts of millions around the world, including his hometown of Oakland, California,” his family said.
“He was a guitarist, producer, composer, philanthropist, mentor, and co-founder of Tony! Toni! Tone! Duane was deeply committed to developing artists and mentoring aspiring musicians, helping to launch the careers of many.”
His family added: “Throughout this struggle, he remained loyal and dedicated to his family, music, fans and community.”
Wiggins was the singer and bass player for a popular R&B group that also included his brother Raphael Saadiq and their cousin Christian Riley. The group became a key exponent of the New Jack Swing movement, fusing R&B, jazz, and gospel elements.
Hailing from Oakland, California, the band burst onto the music scene in 1988 with their debut album, Who?, which featured songs such as “Baby Doll” and “Little Walter”.
However, it was their New Jack Swing-style album Feels Good, released in 1990, that brought the group international popularity, reaching number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
They released two more studio albums together, which included party hits like “Let's Get Down” featuring DJ Quik, as well as unforgettable slow-burners like “Whatever You Want,” “It Never Rains (In Southern California),” “(Lay Your Head on My) Pillow,” and “Anniversary,” which became landmarks in the romantic canon of black music.
Their version of It Never Rains was a cover of the 1972 hit by British singer-songwriter Albert Hammond.
The siblings couldn't predict how their success would affect their relationship. The Tonyies broke up after the release of their fourth album, the platinum-selling House of Music in 1996.
Fame, financial issues, misunderstandings and creative differences became an unbearable burden for the group.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
