FRANCO LUAMBO RHUMBA VIDEO MIX - DJ ROYAL D

Franco Luambo Makiadi, born on July 6, 1938, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Belgian Congo), was a towering figure in African music, renowned as the "King of Rumba." Franco Luambo passed away on October 12, 1989, at the age of 51 in Mont-Godinne, Belgium. His musical journey began in Kinshasa (then Leopoldville), a vibrant hub of musical innovation. Inspired by guitarist Paul Ebengo Dewayon, Franco taught himself to play guitar, developing a unique style through observation and practice rather than formal training.  

At the young age of 18, Franco formed the legendary band TPOK Jazz in 1956. Despite the name, the band's focus was not jazz but the infectious rhythms of Rhumba, a genre influenced by Cuban and Latin American music. TPOK Jazz became a dominant force in Congolese music for over three decades, evolving and innovating, creating what some describe as a unique musical language. Franco's leadership and songwriting prowess propelled the band to international fame, even as the Congo transitioned through independence and political upheaval, becoming Zaire under Mobutu Sese Seko.  

Franco's charisma and talent made him a national icon. He was the first Black non-politician to reside in a European-style residence in Kinshasa, a symbol of pride for many Africans in the city. While he faced competition from other musicians, Franco maintained his position as the "King of Rumba" for nearly four decades. His prolific career resulted in over 1,000 songs, exploring diverse themes and reflecting the social and political realities of his time. He wasn't without controversy, but his musical impact was undeniable.  

In 1987, Franco released the song "Beware of AIDS," a rare public acknowledgment of the growing health crisis.

Shortly after, he fell ill, describing his symptoms as a constant internal "mechanical banging." His death in 1989 triggered national mourning in Zaire, with President Mobutu declaring five days of national mourning and thousands attending his funeral in Kinshasa. Franco's legacy as a musical innovator and cultural icon continues to resonate throughout Africa and the world.

SOME OF FRANCO's BEST SONGS:
Azda
Mamou
Tres Impoli
Arzoni
Sandoka
Makambo Ezali Bourreau
Non
Mujinga
Mado
Candidat na Biso Mobutu.


FRANCO's SELECT DISCOGRAPHY:
1969 - Franco & Orchestre O.K. Jazz – L'Afrique Danse No. 6 (LP)

1973 - Franco & OK Jazz – Franco & L'O.K. Jazz

1974 - Franco Et L'Orchestre T.P.O.K. Jazz – Untitled

1977 - Franco Luambo Makiadi And His O.K. Jazz – Live Recording of the Afro European Tour Volume 2 (LP, album)

1977 - Franco Luambo Makiadi & His O.K Jazz – Live Recording of the Afro European Tour

1981 - Soki Odefi Zongisa (LP, album)

1982 - Franco Et Sam Mangwana Avec Le T.P. O.K. Jazz – Franco Et Sam Mangwana Avec Le T.P.O.K. Jazz (LP)

1983 - Franco & Tabu Ley – Choc Choc Choc 1983 De Bruxelles A Paris

1986 - Franco & Le T.P.O.K. Jazz – Choc Choc Choc La Vie Des Hommes – Ida – Celio (30 Ans De Carrière – 6 Juin 1956 – 6 Juin 1986) (LP)

1987 - Franco Et Le T.P.O.K. Jazz – L'Animation Non Stop (LP)

1988 - Le Grand Maitre Franco - Baniel - Nana et le T.P.O.K. Jazz - Les On Dit (LP)

1989 - Franco Et Sam Mangwana – For Ever (LP, Cass)


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