Raphael Saadiq Reflects on Losses, Legacy of Tony! Toni! Toné! and 'Sinners' Oscar Nomination

The acclaimed producer and songwriter discusses his musical roots, collaborating with Ryan Coogler, and the passing of his brother and friend D'Angelo.

Feb. 28, 2026 at 2:37am

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Raphael Saadiq, the acclaimed producer and songwriter, reflects on his musical journey from playing with gospel quartets as a child to co-writing the Oscar-nominated song "I Lied to You" for the film Sinners. Saadiq discusses his complicated family background, the rise of his iconic R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, and the recent losses of his brother D'Wayne Wiggins and friend D'Angelo. He shares how these experiences have shaped his perspective on the enduring legacy of Black music and culture.

Why it matters

Saadiq's story provides insight into the rich musical heritage and community-driven ethos that have defined the Bay Area music scene for decades. His collaborations with filmmakers like Ryan Coogler demonstrate how this cultural legacy continues to resonate and influence contemporary storytelling. Saadiq's personal losses also underscore the bittersweet nature of artistic success and the importance of preserving the bonds between family and friends.

The details

Saadiq began his career playing bass with gospel quartets in Oakland as a child, learning from mentors like Mr. Thomas and Joe Thomas. He later joined his brother D'Wayne's group Alpha Omega before co-founding the acclaimed R&B trio Tony! Toni! Toné!. Saadiq's big break came when he was recruited to tour with Sheila E.'s band as a teenager. This led to his work with Prince and other major artists. Saadiq's Oscar-nominated song "I Lied to You" for the film Sinners was written in just a matter of days, but its themes of faith, family, and the transformative power of music reflect Saadiq's lifelong artistic journey.

  • Saadiq began playing with gospel quartets in Oakland as a child, starting around age 9 or 10.
  • Saadiq joined his brother D'Wayne's group Alpha Omega as a teenager.
  • Saadiq was recruited to tour with Sheila E.'s band in the late 1980s.
  • Saadiq co-founded the group Tony! Toni! Toné! in the late 1980s.
  • Saadiq co-wrote the Oscar-nominated song "I Lied to You" for the 2025 film Sinners.

The players

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Raphael Saadiq's story highlights the enduring influence of Bay Area music and culture, as well as the bittersweet nature of artistic success in the face of personal loss. His collaborations with filmmakers like Ryan Coogler demonstrate how this legacy continues to shape contemporary storytelling, while his reflections on the passing of his brother and friend D'Angelo underscore the importance of preserving the bonds between family and friends.