DeepSummary
The podcast episode features an interview with Grammy award-winning musician and producer D'Wayne Wiggins, the lead singer and guitarist for the R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!. D'Wayne discusses his musical upbringing in Oakland in the 1970s, where he was influenced by the local music scene and artists like Sly Stone and Larry Graham. He shares how he developed his own sound and helped mentor future stars like Beyoncé and Destiny's Child.
D'Wayne recounts the story of how he got involved with Destiny's Child, receiving a call from Beyoncé's father and ultimately producing and mentoring the group. He emphasizes the importance of finding one's own unique sound and style, drawing inspiration from artists like Earth, Wind & Fire and the Brothers Johnson. He also talks about the challenges and rewards of touring with his brother as part of Tony! Toni! Toné! for nearly 40 years.
Throughout the interview, D'Wayne reflects on his passion for music, his efforts to give back to the Oakland community through his music school, and his pride in being able to follow his dreams and inspire others through his work as a mentor and musician.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- D'Wayne Wiggins' musical upbringing in Oakland's vibrant music scene in the 1970s heavily influenced his sound and style.
- Finding one's own unique sound and style is crucial for artists, as exemplified by D'Wayne's mentorship of Beyoncé and Destiny's Child.
- Touring with family members like his brother in Tony! Toni! Toné! presents both blessings and challenges.
- D'Wayne's passion for music and gratitude for being able to pursue his dreams is evident throughout the interview.
- D'Wayne's song 'Strange Fruit' unexpectedly brought attention to police misconduct in Oakland, showcasing music's power for social commentary.
- Giving back to the Oakland community through his music school is an important aspect of D'Wayne's legacy.
- Mentoring and inspiring younger artists like Beyoncé and Alicia Keys has been a fulfilling part of D'Wayne's career.
- Developing one's own distinct sound often involves drawing inspiration from various musical influences and finding what resonates personally.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “You find you do you.“ by Duane Wiggins
- “It's nothing like being on the stage with family.“ by Duane Wiggins
- “I'm just very grateful that I could follow my passion and live my life, you know, I love it. I truly love this.“ by Duane Wiggins
Entities
Company
Person
Podcast
Music group
Episode Information
Life in Seven Songs
The San Francisco Standard
6/18/24