A compound having the formula ##STR00001## wherein R.sub.1, Z, and the carbonyl can be comprised by a common ring, wherein R.sub.1 comprises a chromophore that absorbs light from the visible wavelength range, and wherein n is an integer of at least 12. A solid phase change ink composition is also disclosed containing a colorant comprising a chromophore that absorbs light from the visible wavelength range and has the formula ##STR00002## wherein R.sub.1, Z, and the carbonyl can be comprised by a common ring, and wherein n is an integer of at least 12. Also disclosed is a method of forming a colorant wherein a first compound having the formula ##STR00003## is reacted with a second compound having the formula Z(CH.sub.2).sub.nCH.sub.3 wherein n is an integer of at least 12 to form a third compound having the formula ##STR00004## wherein the third compound comprises a chromophore that absorbs light from the visible wavelength range.