Major figure in 20th century Congolese music. Widely referred to as Franco Luambo or simply, Franco. He founded and led the
Orchestre T.P.O.K. Jazz from 1956 until his death in 1989. Originators of the modern Congolese sound, Franco revolutionized modern African music, releasing hundreds of records, training hundreds of musicians and achieving an African super-star status. Known for his mastery of Rumba, he was nicknamed the "Sorcerer of the Guitar" for his seemingly effortlessly fluid playing.
Born: 6 July 1938 - Died: 12 October 1989