Country star Raul Malo dies at 60 as fans reflect on his music and health battle

Raul Malo, lead singer of The Mavericks, dies at 60 following cancer complications as fans share tributes and memories

Raul Malo, lead singer of The Mavericks, died on December 8 at the age of 60 following a battle with colon cancer and leptomeningeal disease. His wife, Betty Malo, confirmed his death on social media, noting that he had been “called to do another gig — this time in the sky.”

Malo was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2024 and revealed in September that he had also developed leptomeningeal disease, a rare complication where cancer spreads to the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

At the time, he explained to fans that “things have taken a turn” and discussed his upcoming treatment, including radiation and chemotherapy.

Born Raul Francisco Martínez-Malo Jr. in Miami, he co-founded The Mavericks in 1989 with Paul Deakin and Robert Reynolds.

The group released their debut album the following year and went on to earn a Grammy, two Country Music Association awards and three Academy of Country Music Awards. Malo also received a BMI songwriting award for All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down and was nominated for multiple solo Grammys.

Earlier this year, Malo made headlines for comments shared on the Fourth of July, in which he criticised practices associated with Donald Trump and reflected on themes of liberty, citizenship and humanity. His message prompted wide discussion among fans at the time.

In recent months, supporters followed updates on his health. The country music community had been expressing hope and offering encouragement, particularly after Malo was unable to attend a two-night celebration at the Ryman Auditorium.

The Mavericks performed their song Moon & Stars at his bedside, a moment his wife shared online. Fans responded with tributes describing the impact of his music and the support they wished for his family.

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