Legendary R&B singer, producer and composer Dexter Wansel, who is widely considered one of the founders of the unmistakable Sound of Philadelphia and whose music heavily influenced numerous Rap artists, died at the age of 75 on Sunday in Philadelphia. His cause of death has not been disclosed. The news was confirmed by R&B project Incognito in a Facebook post. Alongside images of the star they penned: "It is with great sadness that I received the news that Dexter Wansel, the artist, singer, producer, arranger, musician, composer, conductor, synthesist and A&R director, Philly Soul & Jazz pioneer passed away on May 31, 2026.

"He has guided my music and career by creating legendary body of recordings and shows that inspired and continues to elevate my thoughts and creativity. He will be missed as a friend and communicator. But his voyage here has left us all better, wiser and a whole lot funkier! I hear talk of humans going to Mars! Well… Dexter already took us there in 1976! R.I.P."

Dexter began his career following a stint in the Army and released his influential debut album Life on Mars in 1976. Amongst those who have spoken of their love for it, is Jay Kay of Jamiroquai. In a BBC interview, he said his love for jazz and funk was kickstarted by the album when he was a tennager as he recalled he used to play the song over and over again on repeat with a friend.

Alongside his solo work Dexter was employed in Philadelphia's famed Sigma Sound Studios well into the 1980s as an in-house writer, arranger, composer, conductor, producer and A&R director.

During this period, he arranged and produced hits for the likes of The Jacksons, The Jones Girls, Jean Carne and MFSB Orchestra.

He also produced Lou Rawls’ classic 1977 album Unmistakably Lou, which won the singer the best male R&B vocal performance Grammy.

Tributes flooded in as fans and admirers shared their heartbreack. "My uncle had his solo albums. And our Berkeley jazz fusion radio station KRE-FM played his songs every day. God bless his soul," one wrote on Facebook.

"A Master! The creator of one of my all time favorite songs 'Nights over Egypt'... and the man who made 'Life on Mars' possible and gave us 'The Sweetest Pain'.... may he rest in Peace!!" another added.

A third chimed in: "May he rest in peace!! His music was a great influence on the early years of Hip Hop music!! My condolences go out to his family, fans and friends!!"

Meanwhile a fourth shared: "A giant has fallen! The great Dextor Wansel. Legend! Forever immortalised in the music."