Back in June 2024, Raul Malo shared a heartbreaking post that he was receiving treatment for colon cancer. Although optimistic about the future, the singer faced numerous challenges. But throughout the entire ordeal, fans continued to offer love and support to the country singer. And with his wife Betty, and their sons, Dino, Victor, and Max, at his side, Malo documented his fight with cancer. Sadly, on Monday, the singer passed away at 60. With fans, friends, and fellow artists offering touching tributes, it seemed that Malo left one final letter to those who not only lifted him up but helped make his dreams a reality.
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Aside from his own career, Malo often discussed his childhood as a citizen raised by Cuban immigrants. Growing up listening to Elvis Presley and Hank Williams, the singer dreamed about performing on stage. And thankfully, he never lost that dream as he joined the Mavericks. He even released numerous solo albums with Today, After Hours, and his last, Say Less.
Honoring his legacy by gifting him the American Eagle Award, it appeared that Malo wrote a letter about receiving such an honor. “Music has been the guiding force of my entire life. It carried me from my Cuban American childhood in Miami to stages across the world. It introduced me to my brothers, The Mavericks.” He continued, “It gave me a home in Nashville, Tennessee. It allowed me to raise my three incredible sons, Dino, Vincent, and Max, who are my greatest pride and joy.”
[RELATED: Trisha Yearwood Mourns Passing of “Larger Than Life” Mavericks Frontman Raul Malo]
Raul Malo Hoped To Inspire Long After His Death
It wasn’t just about Malo’s family and the Mavericks. The singer never forgot how no dream is possible without support. Grateful for every moment he shared with fans, he revealed how much they carried him through dark times. “Your letters, your stories of how a song helped you through loss, heartbreak, joy, those became our songs. You all carried me more than you know.”
As if knowing that his end was drawing near, Malo closed his letter, wishing that his music would continue to entertain and inspire generations to come. “Thank you for giving my voice a place to live, even when my body cannot be the one delivering it. I accept this award with profound gratitude and with the hope that the music we create continues to inspire, to heal and bring people together.”
Though his life has ended, one thing becomes clear – Malo’s legacy will endure far beyond his passing, sustained by the music he created and the fans he cherished.
(Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images)
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