Franco

François Luambo Makiadi Lokanga La Djo Péné (6 July 1938, Sona Bata, Belgian Congo - 12 October 1989, Namur, Belgium) better known as Franco Luambo or simply Franco, was a national figure in 20th century Congolese popular music. He founded and led the [a=Orchestre T.P.O.K. Jazz] from 1956 until his death in 1989. Originator of the modern Congolese sound, Franco revolutionized modern African music, releasing hundreds of records, training hundreds of musicians and achieving African super-star status. Known for his mastery of Rumba, he was nicknamed "Le Grand Maître" and the "Sorcerer of the Guitar" for his seemingly effortlessly fluid playing. A close associate of president [a3946410], in 1974 Franco obtained ownership of the nationalized pressing plant [l=Mazadis].