Theophilus Beckford (1935–2001) was a pioneering Jamaican pianist whose innovative style helped shape the transition from rhythm and blues to ska music. Born in Trench Town, Kingston, he drew inspiration from artists like Rosco Gordon and Fats Domino. Beckford's 1959 hit "Easy Snappin'," recorded in 1956, is considered a forerunner of ska, emphasizing the off-beat rhythm that became a hallmark of the genre. Throughout his career, he collaborated with notable producers such as Coxsone Dodd and Duke Reid, leaving an indelible mark on Jamaican music. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theophilus_Beckford?utm_source=openai))