DUNN PEARSON JR.
Pianist · Composer · Arranger · Producer
Legendary Pianist · Composer · Arranger · Producer
Dunn Pearson Jr. · New York
The Man Behind the Music
A Legendary Life
A Legendary Musical Lifetime
From an early age, Dunn Pearson, Jr. started piano lessons and always knew that music was life's calling. Studying music theory and orchestrations at Kent State University set the foundation for a musical lifetime. Today, Maestro Dunn Pearson, Jr. — known the world over as "The Black Beethoven" — is synonymous with diverse musical credits spanning every genre of entertainment: music, movies, television, Broadway, and commercials.
His career goal was simple: a Musical Lifetime. Yet the chosen path — achieving success in ALL genres of entertainment — proved extraordinarily difficult. Despite rejection and the challenge of proving his talent across every discipline, Dunn stood true to his strategy: "the merit of my talent and not the merit of my stature."
The Mighty O'Jays — Where It All Began
In 1971, a young Dunn Pearson Jr. — known then by his nickname "Donnie" — got his first big break when he met Bobby Massey, founder of the legendary O'Jays. Bobby not only hired him as pianist but gave him the advice that would launch his career: "Become an arranger — learn to write for orchestras — because that will last a musical lifetime."
In 1975, Dunn joined the touring band as organist for the O'Jays, eventually becoming their arranger, conductor, writer, and producer for many award-winning productions. "I began to reap the benefits of wearing multiple hats," Dunn recalls. The O'Jays' induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame stands as a testament to the entire organization.
"My musical soul begins and ends with the Mighty O'Jays." — Dunn Pearson
The Philosophy of a Maestro
The career goal was simple: a Musical Lifetime. However, the chosen path — achieving success in ALL genres of entertainment — proved to be extremely difficult, in part because of the unforeseen challenges of having to prove talent qualifications worthy in each genre. "OK, you're a great piano player, but can you play to time code? You're known for R&B and this job requires classical. No one knows you in the film business..."
Despite rejection, Dunn stood true to his goal strategy: to achieve based on "the merit of my talent and not the merit of my stature." That philosophy carried him from the stages of Philly International to the scoring stages of Hollywood, from Broadway's Nederlander Theater to the Super Bowl.
A Decathlon of Music Entertainment
Maestro Dunn Pearson Jr. is the recipient of the Award for the Decathlon of Music Entertainment — Composers & Arrangers — at the Orlando Urban Film Festival. His credits span over five decades and include collaborations with some of the most iconic names in music: Stevie Wonder, Mary J. Blige, D'Angelo, Teddy Pendergrass, Luther Vandross, Grover Washington Jr., Roy Ayers, The Spinners, and dozens more.
On screen, his compositions have elevated films featuring Oprah Winfrey (Native Son), Danny DeVito (Head Office), and directorial visions by Spike Lee (Get On The Bus). His co-written theme for New York Undercover on Fox became one of the most recognizable sounds in 1990s primetime television.
Worked With
The Complete Works
Discography
🎬 Film Credits
★ Featured Credits
Full Credits
Danny DeVito
Composer
Composer
Mario & Melvin Van Peebles
Composer
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Composer
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Composer
Composer
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Composer
Beyond the Music
Projects & Ventures
Dunn Pearson Jr. is more than a musician — he's a storyteller, author, television host, and philanthropist whose impact stretches far beyond the recording studio.
Masculine Vulnerabilities
The "POWER" of an Inner Man Revealed
RIVETING! And masterfully written. This book addresses the difficulty in entertainment when confronted with male-on-male vulnerabilities that most macho men refuse to admit exist. It speaks to the core of what women dread most about men and exposes the dark secrets of a man's heart — the fear of being rejected, and alone.
"Deep down all men long to be desired, to have that one special woman with whom their heart is fully transparent... Of course, we train ourselves to believe we are the one man that she can never live without. Such foolishness. Then again, a masculine way of surviving because we are vulnerable." — Dunn Pearson
Men4Men Better Living
Mind · Body · Soul
Finally, a television show that goes beyond sports and highlights the greatest assets of man — and is just for men. Real men, real talk. Host Dunn Pearson challenges guests (famous or not) to go beyond the softball questions to hard, tough issues — NOTHING is off limits.
Music, sports, cook-offs, special giveaways, and so much more. See you in the HUDDLE ROOM.
God Has A Blessing Foundation
Changing Lives, One Blessing at a Time
"I started producing a motivational 30-second music video as a way to keep in touch with my loved ones every Sunday — spread the word while spreading the music. Choosing a word subject — HOPE, MERCY, ANXIETY — my idea was to provide examples of what the word means to us and then provide the word of God on the subject.
I soon realized that my idea was actually God's plan to bless me as His messenger. My loved ones grew from hundreds to thousands to millions." — Dunn Pearson
Sweetheart Of The Week
Weekly TV Game Show
Four women contestants compete to win the coveted crown and title "Sweetheart Of The Week." Highlights include fun games, diverse show formats, and life-changing prizes. The show's theme of uplifting and celebrating the spirit of women is on full display.
Directed and produced by Dunn Pearson, Jr. — available on Universal Entertainment TV Network and ROKU.
Watch & Listen
Media Gallery
Groove on Down
The classic Dunn Pearson Jr. groove — pure soul and jazz fusion
Programmed For Love
Smooth R&B perfection — one of his most-streamed tracks
Nital
A jazz instrumental masterpiece from The Black Beethoven
Tell Me (feat. Patrice Rushen)
Featuring the legendary Patrice Rushen — soulful and unforgettable
Just Love Me (feat. Voice of Harmony)
Rich harmonies and Dunn's signature piano work
Hurry Home
A heartfelt ballad that showcases his compositional depth
WHO IS DUNN "Black Beethoven" PEARSON?
Official introduction to the legend — his story in his own words
The Man Behind The Music
Photo Gallery
A glimpse into the life and legacy of Dunn Pearson Jr. — on stage, in the studio, and everywhere in between.
More photos coming soon. Dunn can add new photos anytime through the Admin panel.
Get In Touch
Book The Maestro
Maestro Dunn Pearson Jr. is available for concert performances, film and television scoring, speaking engagements, masterclasses, and special events. Complete the form below and a member of his team will respond within 48 hours.
Direct Contact
Available For
- ♪Concert Performance
- ♪Film/TV Scoring
- ♪Speaking Engagement
- ♪Masterclass / Workshop
- ♪Corporate Event
- ♪Private Event