The Legend of an African Music Giant: Franco Luambo Makiadi' s Revolution In Music: Franco pioneered and popularized Rumba style in the 1950’s, 1960's, 1970’s and 1980's. "The African Music Giant" well known as Franco Luambo Makiadi was one of the most celebrated and innovative African musicians in the history of 20th century music in Africa. With a career that lasted about 4 decades, Franco Luambo Makiadi truly was bigger than life, inspirational, revolutionary and iconic throughout the continent.