For decades, Malo’s rich tenor voice, genre-blending artistry and charismatic presence defined The Mavericks’ signature sound — a rare and powerful mix of country, Latin, rock, and Americana. The band, co-founded in 1989, achieved worldwide acclaim and multiple awards, thanks largely to his distinctive vocals and soulful stage presence.

Malo’s family revealed that he had been battling colon cancer, first diagnosed in June 2024. In 2025, he disclosed a further complication: Leptomeningeal disease (LMD), a rare and aggressive condition in which cancer spreads to the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. As his health declined, The Mavericks canceled their remaining tour dates.

Tributes have poured in from fans, fellow musicians and the broader music community. Many celebrate him not only for his extraordinary voice — often described as “velvety,” “soulful,” and “one of the greatest in modern music” — but also for his dedication to multicultural music and love of family. As one fan wrote on Reddit shortly after the news: