OLDIES SUNDAY: Roland Alphonso – Song For My Father (1967)

Today (June 16) is recognized worldwide as “Father’s Day“. We appreciate the Men who understood the role they’re given, and have done their best in that department. For today’s Oldies Sunday selection, we pay tribute to them with Musician Roland Alphonso’s “Song For My Father“.

Produced by Leslie Kong along with Roland Alphonso and Beverley’s All Stars and released through Beverley’s Records in 1967, “Song For My Father” was Alphonso’s Ska version of the Horace Silver Quintet’s 1965 Jazz composition. The Jamaican version gives it a different kind of life, and opened it up for a different audience to appreciate. The original version according to Horace Silver was inspired by Brazilian music from a trip there, and Cape Verdean Portuguese Folk Music that his Father listened to. The Instrumental was a tribute to his Father and his love for the music, and the Jamaican version paid tribute to Jamaican Fathers. Alphonso’s version was one of many covers made, and was well-received by listeners over the years.

Whether you’re a Father, StepFather, Uncle, Grandfather, Godfather, Papa, Papi, Pop, Dada, big up yourself on this Father’s Day. Check out our “The Fathers Of Reggae/Dancehall” Playlist from a few years ago.

Check out the track below, and share with a friend. Show us some love/follow us on Twitter, TikTok, Threads, and Instagram at @13thStreetPromo.