Raul Malo, the soulful tenor who helped shape The Mavericks into a Grammy‑winning, genre‑blending powerhouse, died at 60 after a relentless battle with colon cancer and a rare complication that followed.
His death was announced on Monday night when his wife, Betty Malo, posted a tribute on the band’s Facebook page, confirming that the beloved frontman had passed away.
Malo had been publicly open about his health struggles, first revealing in June 2024 that he was receiving treatment for colon cancer, a diagnosis that would become a central part of his public narrative.
In September 2025, he shared on Instagram that he was now battling leptomeningeal disease, a rare form of cancer that spreads to the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, further complicating his treatment.
The diagnosis forced The Mavericks to cancel dates with country icon Dwight Yoakam, interrupting a joint tour that had been planned for the middle of the year, a move that shocked fans and the music community alike.
During this period, Malo relocated from his home in Nashville, Tennessee, to Houston, Texas, where he sought specialized care while continuing to keep his supporters updated through social media.
Betty Malo’s heartfelt post reflected on his legacy, writing, “He was called to do another gig — this time in the sky — and he’s flying high like an eagle,” and adding, “No one embodied life and love, joy and passion, family, friends, music, and adventure the way our beloved Raul did. Now he will look down on us with all that heaven will allow, lighting the way and reminding us to savor every moment.”
The band members praised his unwavering commitment to preserving the multilingual American musical repertoire and his steadfast championing of music education as an inspiration for children across America and the world.
Malo was born Raul Francisco Martínez‑Malo Jr. in Miami to Cuban parents, and he grew up surrounded by a diverse musical environment that would later influence his eclectic style.
In 1989, he co‑founded The Mavericks with drummer Paul Deakin and bassist Robert Reynolds, a partnership that would evolve through various line‑ups and intermittent disbandments over the years.
The group’s self‑titled debut album was released in 1990 on the independent Miami‑based label Y&T Music, marking the beginning of a career that would span decades and genres.
While some describe the band as alt‑country, others note its roots in Americana, Latin, Tejano, and swing, a blend that reflects Malo’s expansive guitar work and wide vocal range from a velvety baritone to operatic highs.
Early in their career, The Mavericks performed in punk and rock clubs across Miami, using those venues to hone their sound and build a grassroots following before breaking into mainstream markets.
In a 2020 NPR interview, Malo reflected on his upbringing, saying, “I grew up in a household where we listened to all kinds of music,” a statement that underscored the multicultural influences that defined his songwriting.
The band released an all‑Spanish album, “En Español,” featuring original songs and classic Latin American standards, a project that highlighted their commitment to linguistic diversity in music.
In 2002, Malo released an all‑Spanish album for children titled “el Cancionero de la Familia Volume 1,” which featured vocals from his sister Carol, wife Betty, mother Norma, and other guests, showcasing his family’s collaborative spirit.
Beyond his work with The Mavericks, Malo produced a dozen or so solo albums and collaborations, including instrumental pieces such as “Say Less,” “You’re Only Lonely,” and “Sinners & Saints,” which further displayed his versatility as a musician.
The Mavericks’ most recent studio effort, “Moon & Stars,” came out in 2024, marking the 13th album in the band’s catalog and adding to a legacy that includes a Grammy, two Country Music Association awards, and three Academy of Country Music Awards.
Malo earned a BMI award for songwriting on “All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down” and received nominations for several solo Grammys, including one for his album “Lucky One” and another for his work with the Latin supergroup “Los Super Seven.”
He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Betty; his sons Dino, Victor, and Max; his mother Norma; his sister Carol; and his longtime bandmates Paul Deakin, Eddie Perez, and Jerry Dale McFadden, all of whom mourn his passing and celebrate his enduring influence on music.
Key Takeaways
- Raul Malo, 60, passed away after battling colon cancer and leptomeningeal disease.
- His career spanned 13 studio albums, a Grammy, and multiple awards across country and Latin genres.
- The Mavericks and his family honor his legacy of musical diversity and education advocacy.
Malo’s death leaves a void in the music world, but his recordings, mentorship, and commitment to cultural fusion continue to inspire fans and musicians alike.
