Franco Luambo Makiadi

 Franco Luambo Makiadi

   François Luambo Luanzo Makiadi was a prolific musician from DRC Congo (Belgian Congo) known as “the sorcerer” or “the god-father,” of guitar for his seemingly effortless fluid playing skill. Franco began his music career at a young age recording his first single at the age of 13, "Bolingo Na Ngai Beatrice". His style of music played a pivotal role in the transformation of music in Anglophone Africa (French speaking countries). Throughout his career,, he composed over 1000 songs and more than 250 albums.
In 1955, franco formed a band, the OK jazz band, later called (T.P.O.K Jazz Band) which released multiple hits that echoed in bars, dance-halls and recording studios. The band's music dominated the African charts and the biggwest hit was "Mario" recorded in 1985. Franco died in 1989 leaving a legacy to Africa and the world.