Francisco Aguabella was an influential Cuban master percussionist and conguero who brought the rich rhythms of Afro-Cuban music to the forefront of jazz and Latin music in the United States. Born on October 10, 1925, in Matanzas, Cuba, a region known for its deep Afro-Cuban musical traditions, Aguabella crafted a legacy that bridged the sacred and secular sounds of his homeland with the evolving landscapes of American music.

Aguabella moved to the United States in the late 1950s and quickly established himself as a sought-after percussionist in the burgeoning jazz scene, playing with luminaries such as Dizzy Gillespie, Tito Puente, and Mongo Santamaria. His diverse skills made him a revered figure in both the popular music arena and the sanctified realm of Santería religious ceremonies, where his expertise in playing the sacred batá drums was unmatched.

Throughout his career, Aguabella released a number of albums that reflected his commitment to both the traditional and innovative aspects of Afro-Cuban music. Notable among his later works are "Cantos a los Orishas" (1999), a spiritual album celebrating the Orishas of the Santería religion, and "Ochimini" (2004), which encompasses a variety of Cuban music styles. "Cubacan" (2001), "H20" (2007), "Agua De Cuba" (1999), and "Hitting Hard" (1977) all showcase Aguabella's virtuosity and ability to infuse traditional Afro-Cuban rhythms with contemporary jazz, salsa, and funk elements. Francisco Aguabella’s authentic approach won him a dedicated following and critical acclaim until his passing on May 7, 2010, but his music and the cultural legacy he preserved remain vital to the language of world percussion.