Raul Malo of The Mavericks | Courtesy photo
Raul Malo — the powerhouse vocalist, songwriter, and co-founder of The Mavericks — has passed away at the age of 60. The band confirmed his death on December 8, 2025, sharing a heartfelt statement honoring the iconic artist whose influence stretched across country, Americana, Latin, and Tejano music.
“It’s with the deepest grief we share the passing of our friend, bandmate and brother Raul Malo… Anyone with the pleasure of being in Raul’s orbit knew that he was a force of human nature, with an infectious energy,” The Mavericks said. “His towering creative contributions and unrivaled, generational talent created the kind of multicultural American music reaching far beyond America itself… Though his earthly body may have passed, Raul’s spirit will live on forever in heaven, and here on earth through the music, joy, and light he brought forth.”
Malo had been open with fans about his health battle. After publicly sharing in June 2024 that he was receiving treatment for colon cancer, the beloved frontman revealed in September 2025 that he had been diagnosed with leptomeningeal disease (LMD), a rare and incurable complication in which cancer spreads to the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The diagnosis forced The Mavericks to cancel tour dates with Dwight Yoakam as Malo traveled from his home in Nashville to Houston for treatment. He continued documenting his journey on social media, thanking fans for their support throughout his fight.
Born Raul Francisco Martínez-Malo Jr. in Miami to Cuban parents, the singer co-founded The Mavericks in 1989 alongside drummer Paul Deakin and bass guitarist Robert Reynolds. Their Miami-born fusion of alt-country, Americana, roots, Latin, Tejano, and swing quickly set them apart, powered by Malo’s expansive guitar work and remarkable vocal range — from velvety baritone lines to soaring, operatic highs. Over three decades, he and the band earned multiple Grammy, ACM, and CMA awards, along with widespread critical acclaim.
Malo was also a proud contributor to Latin and Tejano music cultures. The Mavericks’ celebrated Spanish-language album En Español made a major impact in the Tejano community, earning the group the Collaboration of the Year award at the 41st Tejano Music Awards for “No Vale La Pena” featuring the legendary Flaco Jiménez. The project, a tribute to Latin heritage and tradition, reinforced Malo’s passion for preserving multilingual American music — a commitment that garnered him the Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award and the National Music Council’s American Eagle Award.
The Mavericks’ statement emphasized that this dedication was among the singer’s proudest achievements, noting his lifelong championing of music education as a source of inspiration for young people around the world.
Malo is survived by his wife of 34 years, Betty; sons Dino, Victor, and Max; mother Norma; sister Carol; and Mavericks bandmates Paul Deakin, Eddie Perez, and Jerry Dale McFadden. The family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and asked for privacy during this time.
Raul Malo leaves behind a monumental legacy — one built on fearless creativity, cultural pride, profound generosity, and a voice that moved millions. His music, spirit, and impact will continue to resonate across generations, far beyond the borders of any one genre.
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