Grammy-winning frontman of The Mavericks, Raul Malo, dies after cancer battle
Raul Malo, the lead singer of The Mavericks, has passed away after a battle with cancer.
Raul Malo, the charismatic frontman of The Mavericks, has died at the age of 60 after a battle with cancer.
The Cuban-American singer, whose soaring tenor voice helped define the band’s distinctive blend of country, rock, and Latin influences, passed away on December 8, 2025.
His wife Betty confirmed the news in a heartfelt tribute, saying he had been “called to do another gig — this time in the sky.”
The Mavericks also released a statement describing him as “a force of human nature, with an infectious energy” that touched everyone who knew him.
Malo had revealed in 2024 that he was undergoing treatment for colon cancer, later sharing that he was also battling leptomeningeal disease, a rare cancer affecting the brain and spinal cord.
Despite his illness, he continued to perform and record, embodying the resilience and passion that made him beloved by fans worldwide.
Born in Miami to Cuban immigrant parents, Malo co-founded The Mavericks in 1989 and led them to international success with hits such as Dance the Night Away and All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down.
His voice, often described as operatic and soulful, set the band apart from Nashville’s mainstream and earned them Grammy Awards and a devoted following across the globe.
The Mavericks released their 13th studio album, Moon & Stars, in 2024.
