The invention encompasses a compound having the formula: ##STR1##

wherein R₁, Z and the carbonyl can be comprised by a common ring, wherein R₁ comprises a chromophore that absorbs light from the visible wavelength range, and wherein n is an integer that is at least 12. The invention also encompasses a solid phase change ink composition. Such composition includes a phase change ink carrier and a colorant. The colorant comprises a chromophore that absorbs light from the visible wavelength range, and has the formula: ##STR2##

wherein R₁, Z and the carbonyl can be comprised by a common ring, wherein n is an integer that is at least 12. Additionally, the invention encompasses a method of forming a colorant. A first compound having the formula, ##STR3##

is reacted with a second compound having the formula Z(CH₂)_nCH₃, wherein n is an integer that is at least 12, to form a third compound having the formula, ##STR4##

wherein the third compound comprises a chromophore that absorbs light from the visible wavelength range.