It was released in 2002 through White Lion Records selling over 50,000[3] copies its first week between Puerto Rico and some parts of the United States.

Record executive Elias De Leon had Tego participate in several Reggaeton compilation albums to create anticipation for "El Abayarde" including contributing "Cosa Buena" produced by DJ Blass for 2002's "Planet Reggae", a joint production between White Lion Records and Diamond Music.

[13] Much of the themes explored within “El Abayarde” relate to the perspective of the Afro Caribbean diaspora as Tego emanates from Loiza, Puerto Rico.

The musical production was handled by Echo, DJ Joe, Rafy Mercenario, Maestro, Luny Tunes, Noriega & Coo-Kee.

The album is credited with introducing reggaeton to mainstream audiences in places like Houston, New York, Miami and Los Angeles in the United States.