Raul Malo, Legendary Voice of The Mavericks, Dies at 60 After Cancer Battle

Raul Malo of The Mavericks passed away on Monday, Dec. 8 at the age of 60 following a battle with cancer. Fans and fellow musicians alike are mourning the loss of the iconic singer, songwriter, and bandleader.

The Mavericks shared a heartfelt post in his honor early Tuesday, remembering him as a “force of human nature” and praising the “infectious energy” he brought to both life and the stage.

“Over a career of more than three decades entertaining millions around the globe, his towering creative contributions and unrivaled, generational talent created the kind of multicultural American music reaching far beyond America itself,” the band wrote, noting how his work transcended genres, cultures, and generations.

They continued, detailing the impact of his artistry: “While his spirited performances garnered a massive & loyal following, and his powerful songwriting and musicianship earned multiple Grammy, ACM, and CMA awards, it was his lifelong commitment to the preservation of the multi-lingual American musical repertoire of which he was most proud. He made history in 2020 with the first album ever to debut at the top of both the Latin Pop and Folk-Americana charts.”

The post went on to highlight his dedication beyond the stage: “It was this commitment, along with his steadfast championing of music education as an inspiration for every child across America and throughout the world, for which Raul was honored with the Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and the National Music Council of the United States’ American Eagle Award.”

The band concluded with a moving sentiment: while Raul’s body may no longer be here, his spirit and music will continue to touch lives across the globe.

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“His contributions to American and Latin music will be everlasting, as his songs and voice touched fans and fellow artists around the world.”

Raul Malo is survived by his devoted wife of 34 years, Betty; his sons Dino, Victor, and Max; his mother, Norma; his sister, Carol; and his fellow Mavericks bandmates, Paul Deakin, Eddie Perez, and Jerry Dale McFadden.

The family expresses their gratitude to fans for all the love and support and kindly asks for privacy during this difficult time.

Country artists also paid tribute to Raul on social media, with Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild writing, “What a voice. 💔 So very sorry for your loss,” and Jake Owen adding, “One of the BEST EVER.”