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Described by Graeme Ewens as the Congo colossus, Franco Luambo Luanzo Makiadi, fondly referred to as “Le Grand Maitre”, was larger than life. A dynamic guitar stylist, he was a “fearless satirist and witty social commentator with a mission to provoke and disturb the truth”. His music was one of the few consistent factors in African life, recognised from Lusaka, Libreville, all the way to Dakar. His all-powerful band Orchestra TPOK Jazz captured the hearts and minds of multitudes in Africa, leaving a lifelong lasting impression.
Leading a star-studded outfit, Franco was ruthless, yet charming, and also organised extremely well. In stature, Franco was unequalled. He commanded the stage like no other African musician of his generation. African presidents paid him unmatched homage, placing him on a very high pedestal. The death of this “cultural figurehead” caused overwhelming grief in Zaire (DRC) and across Africa. He is still revered today, 32 years after his death, his songs refusing to die.
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