Mavericks Frontman Raul Malo Reveals Leptomeningeal Disease in Latest Cancer Update

Raul Malo, the frontman of The Mavericks, disclosed on Wednesday that his stage 4 colon cancer has progressed to leptomeningeal disease, a spread of cancer cells to the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. In a video posted to social media, Malo said he has developed LMD and will begin radiation treatment the next day. He indicated that chemotherapy and other therapies could follow, but for now his focus is resting and recovering.

Malo, who was diagnosed with the disease last year, has spent time in and out of hospitals, forcing the band to cancel numerous dates. He told fans to hold on to their tickets for the December 5-6 shows at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, noting that the dates are being kept to allow for a possible special plan. He thanked Dwight Yoakam and his band for their kindness and understanding and said the group would continue pursuing other projects, including live recordings and merchandise, while postponing full touring for now.

Beside Malo is his wife of 33 years, Betty Malo, along with a team that includes his road crew and friends. He also has three sons, Dino, Vincent, and Max, whose support he cited as a key factor in staying hopeful. Malo stressed that he is not alone or scared, and he expressed gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and well wishes from fans.

The Mavericks, formed in Miami in 1989 and now a five-member band, last performed on July 6 at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands, Texas. The group has maintained a strong online presence, averaging about 666,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and charting 15 times on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

Malo has previously undergone liver surgery, and next January he is expected to undergo hernia surgery to address complications from a prior operation. The band has signaled that it will continue to release new material and pursue side projects, while navigating the evolving health situation and adjusting its schedule accordingly. The update underscores the ongoing impact of cancer on performers and the ways artists adapt to continue sharing their work with fans.