This week, Raul Malo lost his battle with cancer at age 60. As a solo artist and frontman of The Mavericks, his melodic, ethereal voice was immediately recognizable. This was the first song I heard from the Florida-based group, and I was hooked ever since:
The Mavericks started at the tail end of the 80s with their first big hits coming in the early 90s. Malo said jokingly on a fairly recent interview on Clint Black’s show Talking in Circles, they started out as a country band, and he doesn’t know what they are now. Well, what they are is fun and fantastic. The Mavericks blend everything from country, rockabilly, and blues with the beats of Malo’s Cuban heritage, jazz and you name it. Everything they do works, but it won’t be the same without the gorgeous tenor voice of Malo.
This is why there is no better artist for this weeks Jams than The Mavericks:
When Malo’s death was made public, his wife, Betty, commented: “He was called to do another gig — this time in the sky…Now he will look down on us with all that heaven will allow, lighting the way and reminding us to savor every moment.”
Thank you Malo, and The Mavericks, for bringing a little heaven to us all through your music.
Lisa,When I clicked on the website today and saw you picked The Mavericks for Sunday Jams, I admit it, I cried. I cried tears of sadness and tears of joy that you recognized Raul Malo and the wonderful music of this fantastic band. I am heartbroken over his passing.
I’ve been a huge fan since the beginning and never stopped. Their sound was unlike anything out there. Concerts were a non stop party that everyone danced the night away to and loved every minute of it.
You picked some great songs to highlight the band and Raul’s spectacular voice. I’ve only listened to one song since his passing .because I was too sad. A live version of “Come Unto Me”. A favorite. Raul had IT. The voice,stage presence and connection to the audience. It is such an unfathomable loss for his family,bandmates,fans and the world of music. I am grateful for the fantastic music that he and The Mavericks shared with the world.
Thank you Lisa for this wonderful Sunday Jams of The Mavericks and tribute to Raul Malo. It was truly appreciated.