An ode to Raul Malo from the Mavericks

Even before he recently announced his diagnosis of a hopefully treatable form of cancer, anyone who asked me who the best singer of this generation was would immediately answer “Raul Malo.” That applies to virtually any genre, but what’s special about Raul is that he’s dabbled in all genres, mastered some, maybe even developed some himself, and all in two different languages.

Of course, there are a few other names that spring to mind in the country music space when talking about groundbreaking voices. Colter Wall is certainly a compelling name. Logan Ledger also has a great voice, as underrated and underused as it may be. Josh Turner and a few others come to mind in the male category. But it’s hard to argue with Malo as one of the best. There’s such an overwhelming effortlessness and sweetness to his tone that it certainly sets him apart from the pack, regardless of personal taste.

But how many people would name Raul Malo if asked the same question? That’s because during his 35-year career – as successful as it was – Raul Malo always followed his heart. Perhaps he could have become an opera star of our time. He could sing pure pop.

Instead, Raul Malo has been unwilling and perhaps unable to play anyone else’s game, follow anyone else’s path other than his own, allow himself to be pigeonholed, and he doesn’t seem interested in doing what would perhaps bring him the most wealth and prestige. Nor is he the type to present himself as the “best” of anything. That’s why he reformed The Mavericks after his solo career. He feels more comfortable in a band and sharing the spotlight.

Likewise, Raul Malo has spent much of his career promoting music that would otherwise have gone undeserving, undiscovered, or completely forgotten if someone hadn’t sung its praises.

These days, everyone loves to talk about the virtues of ’90s country music and the resurgent influence of that era. Let’s not forget that The Mavericks were the CMA 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 hits you in the face and reminds you how spectacular Raul Malo and The Mavericks were back then.

But it was only just beginning. The evolution of the Mavericks and Malo’s solo career influenced the world of country, Latin music, classic pop, big band and everything in between.

But perhaps the most amazing thing about Raul Malo and the Mavericks’ career is its longevity. Their big comeback album in 2013, Punctualwon the award for Saving Country Music Album of the Year. In the same year, Sturgill Simpson released High peakand Jason Isbell published southeast. Some still question that choice. But the strength of this Mavericks album is unshakable.

Eleven years later and six weeks ago, Raul Malo and The Mavericks released a new album called Moon & Stars proving that they are just as engaging and entertaining as ever, mixing and blending genres in all the right ways while always maintaining an elemental respect for each of the musical influences they work with, including country. It’s this ‘between the edges’ aspect of Malo that has made him someone you have to find, as opposed to a voice that finds you.

But don’t be fooled: Raul Malo is the man.

The prognosis for Raul Malo is good, the cancer is small and at the moment it only affects 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 without paying respect to a man who has been creating the magic of roots music for four decades and look forward to hearing Raul Malo’s voice across a wide musical spectrum for many years to come.

Below you will find Raul Malo’s statement.

Recently the doctors found a few cancerous areas in my digestive system. Obviously, this is not the news I was hoping for or wanted to share with you all. They assured me that it is a very common type of cancer and my chances are good. Thankfully, we have a plan in place and I feel great! During these treatments, I will continue to be as active as possible, but this means that some shows this year may be affected and we will let you know as soon as possible.

But most of all, I wanted to say to my fellow humans out there and anyone reading this: it’s important to take care of your health and see a doctor, especially if something is wrong. Thanks to modern medicine, these cancers are very survivable with proper treatment, but if you don’t get checked, you’ll never know. It’s important to do this for your family, the people around you, and the people you love.

I’m sharing this message in the spirit of transparency and honesty, as you all have stuck with us through these 35 crazy years of music, shows, breakups, and getting back together – we even survived a pandemic together. We will get through this, just like we get through everything else. In the meantime, I want you to know that I’m not going anywhere, and I look forward to seeing you all on tour again soon.