An Ode to Raul Malo of The Mavericks

Even before he recently announced a diagnosis with what we all hope is a treatable form of Cancer, anyone who asked me to name the best singer of this generation would receive the answer “Raul Malo” back without hesitation. That goes for virtually any genre, though the thing about Raul, he can dabble in them all, has mastered a few, maybe even pioneered a couple on his own, and has done it all in two separate languages.
Sure, there are a few other names that comes to mind in the country realm when talking about landmark voices. Colter Wall is certainly a compelling one. Logan Ledger has a great one too, as underrated and under-utilized as it might be. Josh Turner and some others come to mind in the male category. But it’s hard to argue with Malo as one of the best. There is such a soaring effortlessness, and a sweetness to his tone that it certainly separates him from the herd, irrespective of personal taste.
But how many people in the general population would offer up Raul Malo if asked the same question? This is because for his 35-year career—as accomplished as it has been—Raul Malo has always followed his heart. Perhaps he could have been an operatic great of our era. He could be singing straight up pop.
Instead, Raul Malo has been unwilling and perhaps incapable of playing anyone else’s game, of following anyone else’s path but his own, of being pigeon holed in any particular place, and he seems uninterested in doing what will perhaps earn him the most treasure and prestige. He’s also not one to put himself out there as the “best” of anything. That’s why he reformed The Mavericks after his solo career. He feels more comfortable in a band, sharing the spotlight.
Similarly, Raul Malo has spent long stretches of his career championing music that otherwise might go undeserved, undiscovered or outright forgotten if it wasn’t for someone singing its praises.
Everyone loves to talk about the virtues of ’90s country these days and the era’s resurgence in influence. Let’s not forget that it was The Mavericks who were the CMA’s Vocal Group of the Year in 1995 and 1996. When you’re listening to a ’90s country playlist and a song like “All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down” or “What A Crying Shame” comes on, it smacks you square in the face with the feels, and reminds you just how spectacular Raul Malo and The Mavericks were back in the day.
But this is just where it all started. Where it would go with The Mavericks and Malo’s solo career would influence the worlds of country, Latin music, classic pop, big band, and everything in between.
But perhaps the most astounding thing about the career of Raul Malo and The Mavericks has been the longevity of it. Their big comeback record in 2013, In Time, won the Saving Country Music Album of the Year. This was the same year Sturgill Simpson released High Top Mountain, and Jason Isbell released Southeastern. Some still question that pick. But the strength of that Mavericks album is steadfast.
Eleven years later and six weeks ago, Raul Malo and The Mavericks released a new album called Moon & Stars that proves they’re just as compelling and entertaining as they’ve ever been, bending and blending genres in the right way, and always with an elemental respect for every one of the musical influences they work with, including country. It’s this “between the margins” aspect of Malo that has made him someone that you have to find, as opposed to a voice that finds you.
But make no mistake about it, Raul Malo is the man.
The prognosis for Raul Malo is good, the Cancer is small, and at the moment, it’s only affecting a few shows. (Aspen, CO on July 12, Denver, CO on July 13, Steamboat Springs, CO on July 14). But let’s not let this moment pass us by without showing some respect for a man that has made the magic in roots music happen for going on four decades, while looking forward to many more years of hearing the voice of Raul Malo grace a wide tapestry of music.
You can find Raul Malo’s statement below.
Recently, the doctors found a few cancerous spots in my digestive system. Obviously, this isn’t the news I was hoping to get, or to share with you all. They’ve reassured me this is a very common form of cancer, and my odds are good. Fortunately, we have a plan in place, and I’m feeling great! I’ll continue to be as active as possible throughout these treatments, but it does mean a few shows may be affected this year, and we’ll have more information for you as soon as possible on that.
But most importantly, I wanted to say to my fellow men out there, and anyone who may be reading this — It’s important to take care of your health, and to see a doctor for checkups, especially if something is wrong. With modern medicine, these types of cancer are very survivable with proper treatment, but if you don’t get checked, you’ll never know. It’s important to do it for your family, the people around you, and those you love.
I’m sharing this message in the spirit of transparency and honesty, as you all have stuck with us throughout these 35 crazy years of music, shows, breaking up, & getting back together – we’ve even survived a pandemic together. We’ll get through this just like we have everything else. In the meantime, I want you to know I’m not going anywhere, and I’ll look forward to seeing you all out on the road again soon.
July 2, 2024 @ 9:55 am
Great words Trigger! Am wishing him the best. He does indeed have the best voice in the business.
To the rest of you: please get your colonoscopies when your doctor asks for one! This is a detectible form of cancer and can be caught early and treated if you’re proactive. I’ve lost several friends to this, who didn’t get themselves checked as advised.
September 28, 2024 @ 2:49 am
And I would’ve answered the same as you! I have loved Raul Malo’s voice and The Maverick’s music for so many years, I can say it’s been at least 30 years! I have seen The Mavericks many times and they just keep getting better, if it’s even possible for them to get any better. Raul has been given such a beautiful gift with his voice! The Mavericks are so entertaining that anyone who hasn’t seen them is really missing out. I love them and will continue to attend their concerts every chance I get!! Keep fighting, Raul‼️ ♥️
October 9, 2024 @ 12:03 pm
Ha! What you said, amazing voice and I like none better.
July 2, 2024 @ 10:18 am
2nd That.
Raul Malo has a Fantastic voice!
Mr. Malo, Thank you for sharing your diagnosis.
Both for the info and awareness you are putting out there, & so people can be praying for you.
21 May, 2012 (on birthday) Michael Lary, in Amarillo, informed me i had breast cancer.
Had full Left breast mastectomy. Partial Right.
Have an entire ranching hospital, and hospital dietary staff, to forever be grateful for.
Dietary generals would call the nuclear room, or show up in the doorway, and ask, in no b.s. voices, if had eaten.
They kept lemon pepper tilapia constantly on hand. Someone would run it down to radiology and i would work way through 2 pieces of baked fish.
Long story short, Dr. Lary said 5 year prognosis, maybe 10.
It is not lost on me that it is 2024.
Keep the Faith, Mr. Ralo!
: D But, know you already are.
You, your family, your band, medical workers are all in prayer ????️ ???? ✨
November 11, 2024 @ 10:05 am
Get well soon Raul. Love the band and your singing. Praying everyday for you you and Eddie are my favorites
July 2, 2024 @ 10:36 am
with all due respect to Colter Wall, i am SUPER surprised to see him in your list of top voices in country music. He did a weird thing at the beginning of his viral fame and he got attention for it partly because it was a growly cigarette voice coming out of a very babyfaced young guy at at time when there was not a lot of attention on independent country . But after that he decided he was embarrassed about the affectations (or something like that) and just turned into a fairly normal, not particularly out of this world singer. There’s nothing wrong with his voice now but it sounds pretty much like a middle of the road singer-songwriter singing style with great lyrics and song choices. He’s nowhere NEAR the realm of amazing that Raoul Malo or even Logan Ledger or Will Banister are in. Again I’m not at all criticizing Colter’s voice, it’s just not particularly special or technically unusually skilled compared to the others on the list.
July 2, 2024 @ 12:25 pm
It was more like he couldn’t sing with that deep voice on a touring basis and had to sing with his natural voice in order to keep recording/touring without having issues.
July 2, 2024 @ 3:05 pm
I agree with Trigger – Colter Wall’s voice is unique. Maybe not in tone as much as in the way he uses it.
July 2, 2024 @ 7:48 pm
Oh, I had an FB group, Raul Malo Voice of Velvet, for many years. In my opinion, Raul can sing anything, yet I think his voice was made to sing Country Music. He used to be able to lower his voice, and when he did, it was like WOW! I think his smoking has damaged his voice as well as not taking the time to get the rest his voice needs. Still, when Raul hits the dtage, his voice demands attention. The Mavericks are only as good as Raul Malo is. I’m praying for you and yours, Raul. I know what it’s like to have your loved ones sick. I dedicated a lot of time to my FB group because I believed that Raul Malo had the best voice in the music industry. He speaks of taking care of himself, and I wonder what he means has he really taken care of his health? I’m asking if this is because I’m one of his fans whose voice was not a popular thing with his fans. I believe I spoke the truth. I hold a firm to what I said.My closing, my group was painful, yet Raul knows I love his voice, and I hope his deication to make the best music will take over in the end. Wishing the Best Singer in the Music Industry good vibes and peace. God’s Angels will bex at his side because they, too, love his voice. Your Voice RULES! Raul Malo. Get rest and really take care of yourself! TMR!
July 3, 2024 @ 3:44 pm
We have seen the Mavericks several times, mostly at Denver Botanic Gardens. Great show, great band, best voice in music! I can never get enough of Raul Malo, to the point of my wife asking me to change the music.
Long live Raul Malo and the Mavericks! Beat that cancer!
November 9, 2024 @ 1:42 pm
My husband and I both love him, I could listen to him too all day and night. My husband will ask me to change it.
The first time I saw them it was about 20 years ago and had never heard of them. I feel in love that night. We saw them in Reno a couple of months ago they were amazing. I don’t think you could give him a song that he couldn’t sing and usually makes it better.
I pray for you everyday along with all your friends. God will make sure you are cured so he can get
back to others, and get rid of this tenacious group.
God Bless 🙏💤😞
July 2, 2024 @ 4:50 pm
I was just playing a little devil’s advocacy here and listing off a few of the other names you see in that “best modern country singer” category. You definitely see Colter’s name mentioned in that category, so I’m just throwing it out there.
July 3, 2024 @ 3:13 am
I think vocally Colter is a better singer than when he started out what hes done since is expanded his music slightly which was always gonna happen and will again. I dont think colter is gonna be the sort of artist that stands still, some of his fans might but if he committed to music and left some of the ranching too other people your talking about a americana great. I think Little Songs was the best album so far.
Rauls voice i wouldnt associate with Colter anyway only thing they have in common is they great at what they do.
October 9, 2024 @ 12:12 pm
My hubbs diagnosed with advanced agressive prostate cancer 1997, some Dr.’s said ” get your affairs in order” Then Dr Gregory Echt called at 11:20 pm , and said ” I’ve read your chart and think I can help you. Sir Bennett died in Feb, 2022 from.covid. we grew old together. You have a chance given when hope enters the picture. Thank you for your good news story, And Raul will have one too!
July 2, 2024 @ 10:57 am
I just saw this a few minutes ago. Loved the mavericks since the 90s, even if some of the spanish stuff is not interesting to me. Hope he will make a full recovery.
July 2, 2024 @ 10:57 am
Malo deserves the kind words. He is without doubt one of the great singers of our times. wonderful voice. Great band. Get well soon Raul!
July 2, 2024 @ 11:52 am
The Mavericks output in the 90s was great, but what they’ve turned into since reforming is something else altogether. Country is only one of their influences and the result is amazing. Their live show is jaw dropping, and Malo does an acapella song in the middle of the set (at the shows I’ve been to) that proves your point about how good his voice is.
July 2, 2024 @ 12:42 pm
The Mavericks were great and Raul was a great singer, but I did not like his solo albums after he left the group. I guess a lot of people felt that way and that’s why he went back.
October 5, 2024 @ 6:55 am
I loved his solo albums, especially the covers. He can sing anything and I love his band too.
July 2, 2024 @ 1:37 pm
I appreciate him coming forward with this news. I was diagnosed with colorectal cancer a few years ago and I credit my survival to the Grace of God and early detection. I pray Raul gets through this as quickly as possible.
Also, “Dream River” from the Mavericks ‘Trampoline’ album is one of my all-time favorite songs. Just Raul and a guitar. Absolute perfection.
July 2, 2024 @ 2:02 pm
I’ve been saying for years that Raul Malo is the best vocalist in any genre of music. Incredible voice across an incredible range of styles. He deserves far more attention than what he’s received.
July 2, 2024 @ 2:26 pm
The Pavarotti of roots music. He and the band do an ethereal version of Neil Young’s Harvest Moon.
July 2, 2024 @ 3:10 pm
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve been a fan of The Mavericks since their inception. Saw them once in Birmingham a few years ago and then in Nashville with the Nashville Symphony. Getting ready to book tickets to see them at the Ryman in December for my 37th anniversary.
July 2, 2024 @ 3:14 pm
I’ve been requesting The Mavericks first albums to be reissued on vinyl for years and years. I think Raul Malo’s voice is the most expressive male voice I’ve ever heard outside of Classical or Broadway.
July 2, 2024 @ 3:33 pm
He has been my favorite singer for the last three decades. Second only to Nat Cole for all-time favorite.
Get you colonoscopies, people.
July 2, 2024 @ 4:58 pm
Malo can sing his a$$ off. Mavericks are great live. Prayers for a speedy recovery.
July 2, 2024 @ 8:02 pm
Raul Malo has the best voice in The Music Industry. I dedicated my FB to him, Raul Malo, Voice of Velvet. The Raul Malo Voice Rules! The Mavericks Rule! Because I had believed for many years that The Mavericks Are The Most Industry Band In The World! I hope and pray that Raul will take the time needed to HEAL fully! My opinion might again be unpopular, but please take lightly smoking and drinking. Give your body and voice the rest it needs.
July 3, 2024 @ 12:19 am
As a singer with 30+ years on stage, Raul Malo sets the bar for singers. As someone who loves singing all kinds of Roots music, I hold Raul Malo up as an inspiration for having no frear when picking and writing the songs he chooses to do.
Looking forward to enjoying many more years of listening. Hang tough and bear down.
July 3, 2024 @ 12:34 am
Best wishes Raul for a complete recovery. Love the Mavericks. You have one of the best voices I have ever heard. Obviously a thoughtful and kind spirit to go with it. Thank you for sharing good advice for everyone. Your message was as caring, giving, and heartfelt as your music. Been blessed to see you guys live several times and will see you again. All the best to you, the band, and all your Loved ones.
July 3, 2024 @ 6:41 am
About a month ago I was having a conversation with a friend. She was saying that Don Williams was one of the best singers ever. I replied no, he had a nice voice, a pleasant soothing voice but no, he wasn’t one of the best singers ever. Not like Raul Malo or… and I couldn’t think anyone else on the level of Malo except maybe George Jones. He’s a treasure and I wish him well.
July 3, 2024 @ 6:49 am
The best vocal performance I have ever seen in concert was Raul Malo when I saw The Mavericks. And I specifically remember his otherworldly covers of Patsy Cline’s Sweet Dreams and Roy Orbison’s Blue Bayou. Unbelievable.
I wish him the best.
July 3, 2024 @ 6:57 am
Saw the Mavericks open for Dwight Yoakam recently. First time seeing both artists. Damn, the Mavericks crushed it and upstaged Dwight. Had the audience up and out of their seats going wild in a way Dwight couldn’t/didn’t do. Huge credit to Raul Malo and his excellent band for that. Wishing him well.
July 5, 2024 @ 6:00 am
You’re from DC, right? Was that show in the area? If so, I guess maybe I slept on that one.
That’s just a dream lineup. I’ve seen each one only once and they were both killer shows. And Dwight is probably my favorite country artist of all time. I could see where the Mavericks would have a bigger good time vibe than Dwight, although he WAS a lot of fun when I saw him in 2017.
July 8, 2024 @ 8:06 am
Yep, DC. A great night!
July 3, 2024 @ 7:58 am
I’ve been a fan of The Mavericks ever since I first heard them in the 90s. Unfortunately, I never got a chance to see the first incarnation of the band live, but I did see the second incarnation live twice. Both times they put on one heck of a show.
July 3, 2024 @ 12:08 pm
Saw them open for Dwight a few weeks ago and had no expectations (other than hearing some of their hits from the 90s, which I loved back then). Didn’t know the status of the current iteration and would not have blamed them if they just phoned it in.
But damn, they don’t phone it in. They are nine musicians deep (half old, half younger dudes), put on a fantastic show and work just hard as ever.
If you have a chance to catch ’em live, do it. They’re crushing it.
July 3, 2024 @ 12:42 pm
First heard the Mavericks on the onboard music service on Delta Airlines. Immediately went out and bought Music for All Occasions. Been a fan ever since. Speedy and complete recovery, Raul.
July 3, 2024 @ 12:55 pm
Godspeed,Raul,earnestly hope and pray for your speedy recovery,pardner !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Raul had one of those unmistakable voices,and I was a big Mavericks fan during their heyday.
July 3, 2024 @ 5:53 pm
Josh Turner’s voice is much better than Malo.
July 3, 2024 @ 6:33 pm
I enjoyed your tribute to Raul. I like that you said “soaring effortless and a sweetness to his tone.” True dat!
I have been listening to The Mavericks all day and praying for a full recovery.
July 4, 2024 @ 7:54 am
If you ever doubt how great a singer Raul Malo is, I suggest that you listen to his version of Roy Orbison’s “Crying ” ! I have seen them live quite a few times, and Raul never misses a single note. Not one !
July 6, 2024 @ 6:20 pm
I somehow didn’t discover The Mavericks until a few years ago, but man do I love them and Raul’s voice. If y’all are reading, come play for us in Shreveport LA. The 400-seat Louisiana Grandstand would be a perfect venue. Get well soon, Raul.
July 6, 2024 @ 7:27 pm
Raul and the Mavericks have been the sound track to so many of my life’s chapters. I can’t imagine life without them all making me dance for hours on end. Truly my Latin/alt Country favorite, bit they ho way beyond it.may your health rebound fully and quickly, Raul. We love you and the crew out here!
July 7, 2024 @ 8:23 am
A well-deserved tribute to Malo, who truly is one of the great voices in popular music. And to The Mavericks, who are rock and roll (and country, and soul, and mexicali, and cubanismo) like no one else. I was thrilled to see the with the Boston Pops on July 4. They kicked off the show with a rowsing “As Long as There’s Lovin’ Tonite” and never let go. They owned that show every time they hit the stage… in front of 400,000 people and millions watching on TV.
I must add my vote for one other best male singer today: Zucchero, the Italian blues-rock star. He is the real deal, mixing American blues, gospel, and rock steeped in Italian popular songs and, yes, opera. You owe it to yourselves to check him out. Other than Malo, no one compares for the power, range, and originality of his voice.
July 8, 2024 @ 3:14 pm
Just Love Raul!!!
July 8, 2024 @ 9:52 pm
I’m a huge Elvis fan because he had an amazing voice and could perform such a range of music that I never heard from existing artists at the time. Then he passed away and I was lost for a long time, until I picked up a Maverick’s CD to add to my collection for a cross country road trip in the early 90s. That CD was the only CD I played. I became obsessed with the lead singer Raul Malo I found every CD with him performing and realized his voice and range of music was equal if not greater than Elvis. I had a new singing hero (Elvis is part of my playlist) thank you sir for your voice and thank you for sharing it with the world. All my thoughts and prayers go out to Mr Malo and especially to his and friends.
July 8, 2024 @ 10:00 pm
The history was very very well written as was his own statements. I am a Canadian living in Mexico and have booked 3 flights to see him, all with tickets by the way. First one was St.Louis when they had to flood. Trouble getting in. Next one I made. Flew to Calgary for just 3 days to take in the concert. Third one again in Calgary, Oct.22 but just had a lung operation and was no way ready to travel. I did see them that once from great seats and fell deeper in love with all of them. I wish Raul the best. Just havin 1/2 a lung taken out shows me how far the cures have come. I know he will beat this and with not a lot of inconvenience. Just believe in whatever you choose to believe in and it will give you strength.
July 9, 2024 @ 9:12 am
I too have been listening to Mavericks for the last 24 hours. I started the journey long ago and never left. Today, The Mavericks are phenomenal. Raul’s voice and other talents along with those in the band have made it the best entertainment, period. Incredible musicians and innovative arrangements, combining genres, tight. Our time together will continue. You will join me and many others cc free.
July 9, 2024 @ 2:52 pm
Raul….you’re the best…. I love your voice…keep singing…you are truly loved!!!!
July 12, 2024 @ 7:21 am
Raul Malo has the perfect voice. He can sing any genre. Aside from that , The Mavericks are so loved by their fans not only for the joyous music but also for being so fan friendly. They all make themselves accessible to their fans after most concerts. Best wishes for a speedy recovery Raul. ????
July 15, 2024 @ 5:09 pm
Love The Mavericks!! They are a show stopping band. You just want to get up and move. I remember when they first came out and they’ve just gotten better and better. I can’t wait to see them in concert. Raul, may you have a speedy recovery and know your fan base will always be here and it continues to grow!
September 28, 2024 @ 6:33 am
To saving country music articles about music are the are the most finest in-depth articles from any source (so refreshing in this area of brain dead journalism)
Raul Malo years ago,blew me away with his lyrics arrangements and other worldly vocals. 35 years ago, I was obsessed with their music. No one but no one since then except your favorite and mine. SIERRA!!
To choose the GOAT of all time , between these two ?
Considering nature has it that generally men have a natural advantage in music over women that have battle harder
in the industry. In my humble opinion, Sierra is equal to Raul ( which I believed no one could even come close too)
I could give Sierra the edge, considering what she’s done against the odds. And I wouldn’t be surprised if Raul might? Agree.
September 29, 2024 @ 5:13 pm
Saw the MAVERICKS here in Silver City, NM- couple of months ago-at or local college-WNMU-they’re lots of fun to watch, listen, & Dance-We do a Carnitas-Musica-Y Mas Fiesta every Labor Day Weekend- my Dream is to bring them back for our Fiesta-we have 2 days of Music-Spanish-Country
Rock & Roll-Marachi-Oldies-but let’s Keep on attending all Musical Events-RAUL our prayers are with you-tu familia-todos racias de Gente in the WORLD-Gracias-CON RESPECTO
Jose A. Ray, Jr.
September 29, 2024 @ 5:24 pm
Nailed it. He is the best in so many ways…
1. Creativity
2. Mix of sounds using various instruments
3. Ability to stay relevant
4. A constant mix of amazing band members
5. And of course…best voice
October 6, 2024 @ 5:50 pm
My prayers are with you. Stay strong. We all love your music here in Santa Fe
October 23, 2024 @ 1:28 am
Years ago back in the mid-90s I believe it was 95 through 96 I had the great Fortune of dating the road manager for the Mavericks and so I got to go to many many concerts and was able to go backstage, be on the tour bus, all that and got to know Raul Malo and the other members of the band very well and they were just all around really nice gentleman not ones that would have a bunch of groupies around or anything like that they were just more stand up men and I just always thought that that was so respectful and that they treated their fans (especially women no differently than they did the men!!) with dignity, respect, and gratitude of their fans unwaivering love, they signed every autograph, took every picture and we’re just phenomenal I really enjoyed getting to know them so many years ago and I still listen to their albums to this day love the Mavericks!!
November 8, 2024 @ 1:47 pm
I love the group and have listened to them since day one.Praying for the group as well as their families.Raul is amazing…God BLESS ALL!
November 8, 2024 @ 1:48 pm
Love that man. He bbr9ught me through some tough times and made my good times even better.god bless sir. Godspeed.
November 8, 2024 @ 6:49 pm
All you have to do is go to a Mavericks show, any show in any town, and you too will be hooked for life!!! The Maestro’s vocals will floor you and the band itself will have you up and moving for the entire show. For me personally, the after affects of seeing them live takes about two weeks to come down YEA they a that darn great🌹
November 8, 2024 @ 9:27 pm
Much respect to one of the best and most gifted artists of our time with a unique voice that separates him from the everyday singers and front man. Raul is in a class of his own and I have enjoyed his music for many yrs and hopefully for many more. My prayers are with you and your family. See you down the road.