Slow Jam Saturday : Tony! Toni! Toné!, “Slow Wine”

Legendary composer Irving Berlin once composed a piece titled “The Song Is Ended (but the Melody Lingers On),” which seems to be the mood for the current year. As R&B fans know, 2025 has added numerous names to its heavenly choir, with the latest addition being D’Wayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Toné! Mr. Wiggins, who was called home on Friday, March 7th.

While I reviewed Mr. Wiggins’s solo debut “Eyes Never Lie” a few years ago, I wanted to go back to 1993 and highlight “Slow Wine,” the fifth and final single from his group’s third album, “Sons of Soul.” Tony! Toni! Toné!  produced the song and co-wrote with the production team The Whole 9. As he effortlessly did on the classic “Whatever You Want,” Wiggins took the lead vocal on Slow “Wine.”

While working on “Sons of Soul,” the group immersed themselves in Trinidad’s lively recreational activities and dynamic local music scene. “Slow Wine” has a profoundly sensual ambiance that skillfully captures the essence of a Trinidadian slow grind dance through its lyrics, offering listeners a taste of the island’s alluring dance traditions and musical richness.

The lyrics describe D’Wayne’s desire to slow dance with his partner, enjoying each other’s company and exploring their bodies. The chorus emphasizes the need to “keep it nice and slow” and “use your body and soul,” emphasizing the importance of physical and emotional connection.

One of the things missing in modern the bridge isn’t the case with “Slow Wine.” Wiggins reminds the listener that “slow” is not just about sex but also about taking things at their own pace and enjoying the moment. Wiggins ends the song by professing a desire to slow wine with his partner, building the courage to take things slow and enjoy the experience.

Never crass and evoking the true essence of seduction, “Slow Wine” is a sensual and romantic song about the joys of slow dancing and physical intimacy. I was so thankful that Mr. Wiggins added to his solo portion of the group’s reunion tour in 2023.

While Wiggins may have departed his earthly body, as the song says, “Party Don’t Cry,” and keep his memory alive.

Final Grade: A

“Slow Wine” is available on streaming platforms.