Roland Alphonso (1931–1998) was a pioneering Jamaican tenor saxophonist and founding member of The Skatalites. Renowned for his rich tone, melodic inventiveness, and impeccable phrasing, he played a central role in shaping ska and laying the groundwork for reggae. Alphonso’s career spanned collaborations with Studio One and key figures of Jamaica’s golden era, contributing timeless instrumental tracks that influenced generations of musicians. His legacy endures as a cornerstone of Caribbean music, celebrated for blending jazz sophistication with the infectious rhythms of ska.