Dexter Wansel

Philadelphia Soul and Jazz Fusion Keyboardist

Dexter Wansel is an American R&B/jazz fusion keyboardist, composer, and record producer who became known for his work with Philadelphia International Records in the 1970s. He played a significant role in shaping the sound of Philadelphia soul during that era. Wansel's career is marked by his innovative use of synthesizers and his futuristic production style, which can be heard on his own albums as well as on recordings by artists such as The Jacksons, Patti LaBelle, and Teddy Pendergrass. His solo albums, including "Life On Mars" (1976) and "Voyager" (1978), are celebrated for their blend of jazz, funk, and soul with space-themed titles reflecting his interest in astronomy and cosmic motifs. Wansel's work has been sampled by numerous hip-hop artists over the years, attesting to his lasting influence on contemporary music.