Eliel Lazo, born Eliel Williams Lazo Linares on November 1, 1983, in Havana, Cuba, is a percussionist, singer-songwriter, and producer known for his work in jazz, rock, Latin, and pop music. He began playing at an early age and studied at Oscar Valdes’ school of percussion. In 2003, Lazo won the PERCUBA International Percussion Prize. His first album, Art Ensemble of Havana, was released in 2005. He later released El Conguero (2010), winning the Danish Music Awards for world music album of the year. Lazo has collaborated extensively, working with musicians such as Herbie Hancock, Michel Camilo, and bands including Diakara, Habana Ensemble, DR Big Band, WDR Big Band, and BBC Big Band. In 2014, he released Eliel Lazo & The Cuban Funk Machine, featuring American tenor saxophonist Bob Mintzer.
