Tony! Toni! Toné! Members, Gear & Sound
Members
Select a Tony! Toni! Toné! band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Tony! Toni! Toné! is a dynamic American R&B group that emerged from Oakland, California in 1986. The trio consists of Raphael Saadiq (bass, vocals), D'Wayne Wiggins (guitar, vocals), and Timothy Christian Riley (drums, keyboards, vocals). Known for their seamless blend of Contemporary R&B, Neo soul, Funk, and New Jack Swing, they crafted a distinctive sound that bridged the gap between traditional gospel influences and modern R&B aesthetics. Throughout the late '80s and '90s, Tony! Toni! Toné! became a staple in the R&B scene, delivering hits that resonated with fans of both classic and contemporary soul music.
How to Sound Like Tony! Toni! Toné!
Capturing the sound of Tony! Toni! Toné! involves embracing a rich, soulful, and groove-oriented vibe. Their music often features warm, analog textures with a mix of live instrumentation and electronic elements. The guitar work of D'Wayne Wiggins is both smooth and expressive, often achieved using a Fender Raphael Saadiq Signature Telecaster for its crisp yet soulful tones. Raphael Saadiq's bass lines provide a solid foundation, enhanced by effects like the Pigtronix Mothership 2 for added depth and character. The group's sound is further enriched by vintage-inspired grooves and lush harmonies, making use of analog pedals like the Analog Man Dallas-Arbiter Fuzz Face Mod to add warmth and texture. The drums and keyboards are rhythmically tight yet fluid, often employing subtle dynamics and syncopation to maintain an engaging and danceable feel.
Discography
Get the Tony! Toni! Toné! Sound
Want to sound like Tony! Toni! Toné!? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.