The cabasa is a percussion instrument similar to the shekere. It is made by wrapping loops of steel ball chain around a wooden cylinder. The cylinder is attached to a long handle made of wood or plastic.

The metal cabasa was invented by Martin Cohen, who started the company Latin Percussion. This company created a stronger version called the afuche-cabasa. When shaken or twisted, it makes a metallic, rattling sound, like the noise of a rattlesnake. It is often used in Latin jazz, especially in bossa nova music. Skilled players can create precise rhythmic patterns by pressing the metal chain with their non-dominant hand while twisting the instrument with the other hand. The cabasa is also used in band and orchestra music.

The African version of the cabasa is called agbe. It is made from dried oval or pear-shaped gourds with beads attached to the outside. In Latin music, there are many versions of this instrument. A similar instrument called cabaça is used in Latin American dance. The cabaça is a round or pear-shaped gourd, covered with beads, and has a single handle. It is different from the metal cabasa used in Latin jazz.

The cabasa is often used in music therapy. It helps people with physical or neurological disabilities because it requires little hand movement to make sound. A music therapist can help reinforce the sound, which helps build connections between hand movements and hearing. Modern versions include a foot pedal made by Meinl Percussion.