By Rhett Flowers

One of Sun Radio’s favorite artists, Raul Malo, has passed away, leaving a significant void in the American roots and country music community. Known for his unmistakable voice in the Mavericks, Malo played a central role in shaping the band’s sound, which mixed country, rockabilly, and Latin influences into a style that stood apart in the 1990s and beyond. His work earned widespread respect from fans, fellow musicians, and critics alike.

Malo died at age 60 on December 8th after a publicly shared battle with cancer. In June 2024 he revealed a diagnosis of colon cancer. In the months that followed, he received treatment—including surgery and chemotherapy—and continued to update fans about his condition. In September 2025, he disclosed that the cancer had progressed to a rare and serious complication of the disease known as leptomeningeal disease (LMD). The band canceled their remaining 2025 shows so he could focus on treatment and recovery.

Malo maintained long-standing ties to Texas, a state where his music consistently found strong support. Although he grew up in Miami, he became closely connected to the Texas music scene through years of touring and collaborating with regional artists. His blend of country and Latin elements resonated deeply with Texas audiences, and he remained a frequent and welcomed presence on stages throughout the state.

Raul Malo last visited Sun Radio’s studio with band mate Eddie Perez in May of 2024 on the release date of the Maverick’s last album, Moon and Stars.

One of Malo’s most notable Texas collaborations was with legendary accordionist Flaco Jimenez. Their recordings showcased a shared appreciation for the intersection of country and conjunto music, bringing together two distinctive talents in a way that highlighted both traditions. Malo’s death is a major loss for the music world, and his contributions—especially his work rooted in Texas influences—will continue to be remembered.

Here’s a statement from The Maverick’s Instagram page: