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BORN
1965
DIED
2025
Raul Malo Obituary
Malo was born Raul Francisco Martínez-Malo Jr. on August 7, 1965, in Miami to Cuban immigrant parents. He rose to fame as the lead singer, guitarist, and principal songwriter of the Mavericks, a band he co-founded in 1989.
Across a career spanning more than three decades, Malo helped redefine American music by fusing country, rock, Latin, Americana, Tejano, and swing. His sweeping tenor, capable of both raw soulfulness and operatic flourish, became the signature sound of the Mavericks.
The Mavericks broke out in the 1990s with platinum-selling albums like "What a Crying Shame" and scored several chart hits. Their top hit I the U.S. was "All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down," which featured accordionist Flaco Jimenez (1939–2025). In addition to his work with the Mavericks, Malo released solo albums and collaborated with groups such as Los Super Seven.
He remained deeply proud of his heritage and his commitment to multilingual American music. In 2020, he made history when the Mavericks released the first album ever to debut atop both the Latin Pop and Folk-Americana charts.
Malo's health troubles came to public attention in June 2024, when he revealed a colon cancer diagnosis. By September 2025, the cancer had become complicated with the rare leptomeningeal disease, affecting the membranes around his brain and spinal cord. Despite his illness, a two-night tribute concert, billed as "Dance the Night Away: A 35-Year Musical Legacy Celebration Honoring Raul Malo," took place on December 5 and 6 at Nashville's legendary Ryman Auditorium. He was hospitalized on December 4 and died four days later.
In a post announcing his death, his wife, Betty Malo, wrote: "He was called to do another gig - this time in the sky - and he's flying high like an eagle." The band added that "Anyone with the pleasure of being in Raul's orbit knew that he was a force of human nature, with an infectious energy."
Malo is survived by his wife; their three sons, Dino, Victor, and Max; his mother, Norma; his sister, Carol; and his longtime bandmates.
By Legacy News Staff
(Image: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images)
90 Entries
victor
Earlier today
My Condolences.
Cathy Burton Crocker
Earlier today
Dear Betty, Dino, Victor, Max, Sra Norma, Carol and Betty's mother, and sisters, I have no words that are adequate to express my deepest sympathy for the loss of your dear Raul. I have been a fan for decades and enjoyed getting to know you all during our 6 years living in Nashville. Thank you for sharing Raul with all of this. Godspeed, Raul, and thank you for sharing your gifts with us all. Sincerely, Cathy and Jimmy Crocker (la madrina de Mani)
Mike Gulachok
Earlier today
God Bless Raul. His voice can now be heard in God's choir. R.I.P. Mike G. upstate New York
e. luff
Earlier today
One of the absolute best!!!!!!
Saw him live.
Use his music still in my classes
My heartfelt sympathies to his family and friends.
How you can show support
Joyce & Rodney Hawkins
Earlier today
We are very sad about your loss dear Malo & Mavericks band members family. What an amazing talent & inspiration to all Raul has been! We know he is truly flying high on his new gig, but he is sorely missed & gone way too early. Please be in peace as you grieve & please accept our heartfelt condolences.
Kendell and Kathy Sevits
Earlier today
As parents of Jamison Sevits,who toured with Raul during the Saints and Sinners tour, we were introduced to Raul's amazing talent. We feel blessed to have experienced the beauty of his voice and his multitude of musical skills. What a legacy he will leave.
Mary Lucas
Earlier today
I attended many of your concerts. One in Cincinnati where you sang a capella. What a beautiful voice wrapped up with a beautiful soul we have lost. You will be missed but not forgotten. Sing with God now.
Stacey Hamilton
Earlier today
To the entire Malo family, The Mavericks, and countless fans....
My heart goes out to each of you.
I've been listening to The Mavericks and Raul's music since I was 17 years old. I'm now 48. I've been to about a dozen shows with my parents who also love Raul and The Mavericks. We've recently been enjoying Raul's Christmas album. I'm a die hard music lover and never have I heard a voice like Raul's. He was one of a kind with a presence that filled the room with love, soul, and amazing energy. You couldn't help but smile while watching him perform. I will hold dear all the memories I have of seeing him live. I met the entire band back in '95 after a show and it was the thrill of a lifetime. Somewhere I have a picture of that amazing moment.
We have lost a great one and my heart is heavy.
My deepest sympathy to all who knew and loved Raul.
Sincerely,
The biggest fan, Stacey Hamilton
Mariehelene Mares
Earlier today
Wat een groot verlies.
The Mavericks zullen nooit nog hetzelfde zijn.
Mijn gedachten zijn bij zijn familie.
Ik zal je nooit vergeten en je liedjes zullen blijven gedraaid worden.
Rip love from Belgium
Martha Pradie
Earlier today
Love him from the first time I heard the Mavericks I was hooked it is so sad to hear of his passing, the music world has lost a talent, however heaven has a singing angel...he will be truly missed,,your fan Marty
Donna Stanczyk
Earlier today
Dear Betty, Kids, Family & Mavericks Raul Malo Was A Great Singer. I Loved Listening To His Music Everyday and Night. May God Bless Raul Always . Donna Stanczyk A Big Fan
Susan Hansen
Earlier today
He touched our hearts with his beautiful music, and his infectious enthusiasm..he will be so very missed.I saw him on July 23, 2024 in Paso Robles, Ca.
Bill Pero
Yesterday
To the great one, Raul you were undoubtedly the best I've ever listened to and now you're singing with Angel's I'll never stop playing your extensive catalog. My deepest condolences to the entire Malo Family
Brian Papai
Yesterday
May you rest in peace, brother.
Yvette Morin
Yesterday
My thoughts and prayers are with his family and band mates. We lost a truly magnificent voice. I finally got to see the Mavericks perform a few years ago. They were amazing. Rest in eternal peace Raul.
Adriana R
Yesterday
Singing with the angels in Heaven! May your reunion with our Heavenly Father be ALL that one can imagine and more. Thank you for blessing us with your beautiful gift. Gone too soon, but heaven gained an glorious angel. You will be missed. Condolences with all the tears on earth for your family, friends and fans. God bless and keep you in His arms forever and ever.
Dan Von Haden
Yesterday
Gone too soon, but still touched everyones life. He will be missed by so many, but his music will live on forever. Condolences to Rauls family and bandmates who knew him best.
Brenda
Yesterday
What a voice! What a gift he gave to us all. I had the pleasure of seeing and hearing the Mavericks live in concert. An incredible show and performance by all. Mako's unique sound will live on in our hearts. R.I. P. Thanks kindly for all that you gave.
James and Suze Chaconas
Yesterday
You touched so many people with not only your music but who you were as a person. My wife and I saw you in Ft. Lauderdale which was filled with so many people who truly loved you.Comfort and peace to your wife,children,and bandmates.
Jesse Hale
Yesterday
I loved the Mavericks and his great voice. Prayers for his family and band mates
Maryanne
Yesterday
The sadness I feel must be magnified by millions by his family and close friends. My sincere and deepest condolences. We have been blessed to have had him come into our lives. M. Buchanan
Dan Smith
Yesterday
Ride high Maestro. You will be sorely missed!
Marta Rosenthal
Yesterday
My heart is broken. What a huge loss. His God given voice will be so missed as will his presence here on earth. May his wife and sons find comfort knowing how loved he was by so many people. Sincerest condolences to his entire family.
May he rest in eternal peace in the presence of our Lord.
Marta Rosenthal
James Harter
Yesterday
Rest in Peace you will be missed I loved your music.
Irene
Yesterday
My brother adored him. We bonded over and saw many concerts together. My brother is gone two years now and I am so happy I have those memories. Thank you Mr Malo for bringing him such joy. May you see each other in heaven.
John Barnes
Yesterday
Your style, voice and presence will be remembered.
Rest in Peace brother
Barbara Grey
Yesterday
Betty, Dino,Victor Max and all Raul´s family
He was a giant of a man! I know all the loving happy memories you have will forever live in your hearts! I know all the wonderful songs I have of Raul´s and my love for him as a fan will keep him alive in my heart! His beautiful voice always brings me joy!
Sending love prayers and hugs to all of you during this difficult time!
He´s singing for God in Heaven and will always watch over you.
His devoted fan.
Barbara Grey
Redding CT
Cecilia Casarez
Yesterday
Betty, Dino, Victor & Max: There are no words...From day one I have loved the sounds of Raul's voice along with The Mavericks..THEN Betty who is soooo MALO STRONG. I wish I could ease your pain all I can do is pray that God embraces this familia whole heartedly. I LOVE YOU BETTY y RAUL...te mando GRAN FUERTE ABRAZOS QUERIDA
Vincenzo (Vinny) Borgonsoli
Yesterday
To Rauls' entire Family, and every single Bandmember, our deepest condolences and please know that your music will live on in our hearts forever! Thank You so very very much for enriching our Lives and Souls with your "beautiful" music!
We will miss you! RIP with the Angels up above our Brother Raul, Vincenzo (Vinny) B from N.J.
Cheryl Lewis
Yesterday
What a joy and honor it was to be able to attend The Mavericks concerts many times and hear Raul´s silky voice. Now you can sing with the angels. RIP Raul
Jesse Massey
Yesterday
Raul, all I can say is wow! What an absolute energy, talented musician, & singer! You have left many years of enjoyment for myself and my family. I grew up driving with family on road trips listening to your greatest hits! God works in mysterious ways, and I'm confident that he has bigger plans for you and all of us, than can ever be filled here on earth! It was a pleasure to have had your music in our world and you will be forever missed and remembered! The greatest gift to leave is music, and that sir you've done! God bless you always and your family!
-Jesse, a guitarist from Denver
Kelley Marvill
Yesterday
Ohhh Raul, what an impact you made on my life, enriching it with your beautiful voice and your always smiling face and positive vibe. You were like a breath of fresh air and a burst of sunshine and I would seek out your music when I needed a boost and could always find the answer in your lyrics and melodies. How lucky your wife and boys and family were to have you, you left them and us, way way too soon. Godspeed Raul, you are waltzing across the sky and I will hold my head up high for you, because your music never dies. With love and gratitude, Kelley Marvill
Nicole Pensiero
Yesterday
I was a big fan of Raul´s and honored to have met him once, back in 2009. You could not meet a more talented or kinder person. God bless, you´re singing with the angels now.
Ada Gamez
Yesterday
I was a new fan and quickly fell in love with his band and their music, couldn´t believe I hadn´t heard them be for and I will always regret not being able to attend one of their concerts but thanks to UTube I enjoyed all of his music. My deepest condolences to his family and his band. sincerely, Ada Gamez
Shannon and Ned Maly
Yesterday
My husband, myself and my family took every opportunity that we could to listen to this voice whenever they were near. These were some of THE best times we had together. Thankful and grateful for those times. May you all find peace. Thank you to Rauls mom for giving us Raul. Love to you all.
Sara and Barry Goverman
Yesterday
First concert- who knew that dancing in the aisles was mandatory!! Loved it, loved Raul, loved the band.
Barry and Sara Goverman
Yesterday
It only took one song and one show to make us Malo and Mavericks aficionados. An amazing man with an amazing voice. Our prayers go out to his wife Betty, their children, his beautiful mother, his sister, and all our kindred spirit fans who will never see his like again. Rest in peace. You gave it your all.
Sherri Kenney
Yesterday
I had the pleasure of seeing The Mavericks this past summer. I´ve loved Rauls voice from the second I first heard his music. Like all his fans I´m devastated & pray for his family & band. He will definitely be missed.
Beth Gordon
Yesterday
Raul Malo was raised right, you could tell how he treated everyone. Not just "important" folks! A major talent whose music will live forever. So unique. There will never be another like him.
Sharon Provost
Yesterday
Sending my deepest condolences to the Malo family. May he rest in eternal peace. A long time fan.
Jane Ginther
Yesterday
The "world" mourns. Raul was greatly loved and now greatly missed. With true love, Jane, John and Daydn.
Bell Troxel
Yesterday
I used to live in Nashville and my favorite thing in the entire world was going to see music all over town. Sometimes I´d go out every single evening. Third and Lindsley was more of a band type venue and much smaller than it is now. Raul usually played with a group of studio musicians called The Fabulosos when he was in town. I always tried to go see him when he played there, because I loved his voice and his music. One weekend Raul played there on a Friday night and then on Saturday night Big Al Anderson was playing. On Friday, when Raul was up, Big Al was in the audience and Raul called him up to do a couple with him, because they´d co-written so many songs. Then the next night Big Al and his band were playing and low and behold, halfway through the show Raul showed up and Big Al invited him up to do a couple with him. Raul rarely ever hung around after his shows, so I never had the opportunity to meet him, but on that night after the show I noticed he was standing at the bar talking to a bunch of other musicians that I knew. I suddenly thought, OMG, it´s finally my chance to meet him. So idiotic me got up and started walking across the room, he looked over and saw me and unbelievably, or not, I actually held my arms out and started singing, I love you baby, to him. He threw his arms around me and was saying something like, girl I was loving on you all night long last night. One of the other musicians was watching this and I felt obligated to say I had come to his show the night before. Then of all things, Raul said, you know, every time I see you in the audience, I always sing to you because you´re always having more fun than anyone. I told him I always felt like he was singing to me, but I knew that couldn´t possibly be true. But he said it was. After all that, I was talking to my boyfriend who was kinda wondering what the hell was going on and I told him I couldn´t help myself. Of course it was all I talked about for days. It was one of my coolest moments in Nashville. But there were a lot of them.
Brenda Roberts
Yesterday
Crowelll
Yesterday
We saw you and your band at Gruene Hall in New Braunfels Texas !!
Your voice will live on forever.
Elizabeth Duenas
Yesterday
My heart breaks for his family. I will miss seeing him live. I remember every year for Christmas I would ask for music from the Mavericks.
Terry Norris
Yesterday
So sorry to hear this news! I loved his voice and the Maverick's music. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. RIP
Ed Prater
Yesterday
I have many memories of Raul when I lived in Nashville. Many motorcycle rides, late nights at the house with Betty and friends. I remember his laugh when Betty pushed me into their pool, and broke my big toe. Trust he is playing/singing in "Rock and Roll Heaven. Love and Prayers. Ed
Alex lima
Yesterday
My condolences desde de Brazil
Linda Thornton
Yesterday
I have seen Raul and the Mavericks many times. "OH WHAT A THRILL". I am heartbroken to know there will be no new songs from Raul in this world but the angels are rejoicing. Im praying for Betty, the boys and the band. God bless you all.
Pablo E. Lense
Yesterday
I never had the honor of meeting you or your family but my life was blessed with your beautiful music and heavenly voice. Rest in Peace y Un abrazo fuerte.
Kevin Lynch
Yesterday
Will never forget the quality time I had hanging with the guys through the years while on the music trail. Often road-weary when we met at the same venues, I would leave my visits and jams with Raul feeling re-energized; grateful for the friendship(s).
Raul did what many musicians hope to do, strive to do...
Left this World a better place for so, so many.
He made a Difference.
Robert Sanders
Yesterday
The first day I met Raul I was a bit anxious to meet someone of his stature, but when he met me at the door with his trademark smile, infectious laugh and a warm handshake and saw his Grammys being used as bookends, I quickly knew despite his great talent and fame he was far more than just a gifted singer and songwriter. He was a genuinely nice guy... a grounded, special person who treated everyone with kindness, respect and made everyone whom he met feel special.
Raul was also the epitome of generosity, and fun.
Most of all I witnessed him in the role of husband, son and father. In each role, he was always so loving and supportive putting his family above himself.
I´ve worked with the parents of countless students. I´ve never met anyone who was a better dad than Raul. I had the great privilege of spending a lot of time with and around him for a period of years. I am so much better for having known him and able to call him a friend. I say with all confidence that everyone who knew him, even if just through his music, is the better for having known him.
Dino, Victor, Max, Betty, Norma and Carol -you are in my thoughts in my prayers. I pray that your minds are flooded with all of the wonderful memories of role, and if that will help you in this time of sadness. I love you all. Robert Sanders
Irene Ross
Yesterday
Seen the band in Glasgow twice and was the best concert ever. Your singing with the angels and dancing the night away
Betty Elliott
Yesterday
I am so saddened to hear of the passing of a great singer and writer Raul Malo. we love and will continue to listen to the mavericks music . I am so happy I was able to see the mavericks in Prescott Valley . RIP
Leon Lucero
Yesterday
You brought so much joy to my life with your music and your wonderful presence as a person. . You will be missed brother. God Bless you and keep you in his glory.
Anthony Cullen
Yesterday
Rest in Peace Raul. Thank you for the music.
Chris Scanlon
Yesterday
One of the greatest voices and bands in America. I am so glad I was able to see you this summer in Richmond, VA and I will never forget you and that concert with your Mavericks. God bless you Raul and Rest in Peace.
Jerry Madison
Yesterday
My condolences to your family. Losing a loved one brings pain and sorrow. May our Heavenly Father bring comfort to your family.
Greg D
Yesterday
My condolences to Raul´s family and friends! May the God of mercy and grace, Jesus Christ have mercy on his soul! Loved his voice!
RA
Yesterday
Prayers for the Malo family, God be with all of you in your time of loss.
Candi Boone
Yesterday
My family will always love Betty and Raul.
Karen Iglinsky
Yesterday
I am so sorry to hear the news of Raul's passing. You will be greatly missed but will live on in so many hearts all across the world. Rest in Pease Raul. And to Betty, Dino, Victor, Max, his mother and sister, and to all his bandmates....My deepest condolences.
Reggi May
Yesterday
He provided much of the soundtrack of my life. Loved him and The Mavericks so much. Energy doesn't die and some of his will always remain here with us. Love and light to his family and crew. Thank you for your art we have your music to keep us close. Xo
Jana Fly
Yesterday
He brought so much joy to so many.
Marcus Sirles
Yesterday
His voice lives on ! That's good!
Marcus Sirles
Yesterday
He was a good singer! That lives on ! Rip! From your fan Marcus Sirles!
Marcus Sirles
Yesterday
He was a good singer! His voice lives on ! Rip! From your fan Marcus Sirles!
Fred Schuster
Yesterday
I was lucky enough to see The Mavericks twice when they played in Santa Rosa and Napa, what great shows. Raul was electrifying, his vocals had everyone on their feet dancing mainly to an older demographic, I guess we know the real thing when we see and hear it. I´ve been playing is songs all day once I heard of his passing. I will never forget the joy I had seeing you and your marvelous band. Rest in peace
Amy Starcher
Yesterday
I am so sorry to hear that he is gone. I loved his music since the `90´s and still listen to The Mavericks today.
He introduced me to a different style of music that is as wonderful now as it was then.
Go easy Raul.. you will be missed.
Amy Starcher
Ned Halberstadt
Yesterday
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
ROD LYON
December 9, 2025
I just started listening to Raul a couple of months ago. Enjoyed his talent as a singer and as a musician. So very talented. He will be missed, but his legacy can still be heard on line.
Amy Pasqualini
December 9, 2025
I saw The Mavericks when they first started to take off (with Waylon Jennings, Jessie Colter and Doug Stone). I so enjoyed your music over the years. May you rest in peace.
Denny Harvey
December 9, 2025
He and the Mavericks help me in one of the darkest times in my life . May he rest easy now !
M DeLisle
December 9, 2025
Betty and family, please accept my deepest condolences, sending positivity for strength, and healing energy, I am a fan for 30+ years, travelled many miles to see The Mavericks in concert, always first row, first time was their In Time album, I fell in love with the band and Raul´s extraordinary voice , literally the voice of an angel is what I´ve always said.. thank you for sharing Mr Maestro with that world, he was a beautiful soul, who will live on forever through his music, his shoes can never be filled, he was a one of a kind performer, he will be cherished and remembered for all time ... the time we had as his fans is ALL THAT HEAVEN WOULD ALLOW, may his journey and transition to the sky world be one of ease, I wish I could hear the angels choir as they receive Raul... a fan for life... M. Delisle, Kanienkehaka Mohawk territory
Michelle O
December 9, 2025
Raul had a beautiful voice. I loved the Mavericks. May he sing with the angels.
Leslie Redaway
December 9, 2025
Robin Orovitz
December 9, 2025
Sending my deepest condolences.
Stella
December 9, 2025
With the passing of Raul, our world has lost a shining light, but heaven has become that much richer. May the beautiful memories and constant reminders of happier days with his beautiful music console his family and bandmates and ease their pain in the coming days."
Gabrielle Cunningham
December 9, 2025
My sincere condolences to Betty and your family. I´m so sad.
Julie Bailey
December 9, 2025
Raul´s music will be remembered forever. My condolences to his family and band members. Julie Bailey
MavMan99
December 9, 2025
The finest voice I've ever heard live in concert (and I saw Roy Orbison in 1982). I saw Raul live at least a dozen times, sometimes with the Mavericks complete with full horn section, and sometimes solo with just his acoustic guitar. In either case, his talent and showmanship created the kind of transformation experience that make live music magical. I hope his family and bandmates are aware of the thousands of fans who never met the man, but feel that they have lost a huge part of their lives, and a true friend.
Jennifer cox
December 9, 2025
I have always loved your voice and been a big fan since I first heard The Mavericks . You´re flying high and singing in a bigger band now .
Christine da Silva Gomes
December 9, 2025
Am devastated your gone. You gave me such great memories with my late dad. Singing along together to your fabulous voice. You had the voice of an angel and I am so happy you shared this with us. I saw you perform in Scotland and you simply were the best God bless
Ed B
December 9, 2025
The voice of an angel is singing with the Angels now! Prayers to the Family
Kathy Dee
December 9, 2025
I´ve been a fan of Raul´s for 25+ years. He had the voice of an angel, and now he will join their chorus. Rest well in peace. You will be missed.
Debbie
December 9, 2025
Rip Raul malo condolences to your family.Rip
Norma Orovitz
December 9, 2025
To dearest Norma & Carolina: How we mourn Raulito with you both, Betty and the boys. May he rest well. Norma & Michael O.
Shelley
December 9, 2025
I remember listening to The Mavericks songs over and over and over again. I hadn't heard their songs in so long but now they are firmly in my playlists. Thank you for your beautiful songs, Raul!
Condolences to your family and friends.
Linda Degnan
December 9, 2025
my heart goes out to the band his family and his friends. they'll never be another one like him
Melinda Newpher
December 9, 2025
I am so very sorry for your loss
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