Raul Malo, co-founder and lead singer of the Grammy-winning band The Mavericks, passed away on December 8 at the age of 60 after a courageous battle with cancer. Funeral arrangements have now been announced by his family.
Raul was widely admired for his artistry and influence, helping shape The Mavericks into one of the most distinctive groups in country music. In June 2024, he revealed to fans that he had been diagnosed with cancer, though he initially kept details private. A few months later, in September 2024, he shared that the illness had progressed into leptomeningeal disease (LMD), a rare and serious condition that occurs when advanced cancer spreads to the fluid and membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
After more than a year of fighting the disease with strength and grace, Raul passed away, leaving behind a legacy defined by passion, creativity, and deep love for life.
His wife, Betty, shared a heartfelt statement following his passing:
“No one embodied life and love, joy and passion, family, friends, music, and adventure the way our beloved Raul did. Now he will look down on us with all that heaven will allow, lighting the way and reminding us to savor every moment.”
Tributes poured in from across the country music world. Fellow artists including Dwight Yoakam, Trisha Yearwood, and Ana Cristina Cash paused to honor Raul’s life and influence.
The Mavericks also released an emotional message of their own, reflecting on his enduring impact:
“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. His contributions to American and Latin music will be everlasting, as his songs and voice touched fans and fellow artists around the world.”
Funeral Arrangements Announced
Raul is survived by his wife of 34 years, Betty; his sons, Dino, Victor, and Max; his mother, Norma; his sister, Carol; and his bandmates Paul Deakin, Eddie Perez, and Jerry Dale McFadden.
On December 13, his family shared details regarding his funeral service. A public funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, December 18, at the Cathedral of Incarnation in Nashville, Tennessee, beginning at 2:00 p.m. While the service is open to the public, seating priority will be given to family and close friends. Guests are encouraged to arrive by 1:00 p.m. to allow time for parking.
A private reception will follow the service.
Those wishing to honor Raul’s memory may send flowers to the Cathedral or, in lieu of flowers, make a donation to MusiCares or the Blackbird Academy.
Our thoughts and prayers remain with Raul Malo’s family, friends, bandmates, and all who were touched by his extraordinary life and music.