The Mavericks Begin Emotional Two-Night Tribute to Raul Malo in Nashville

A diverse lineup of country, roots, and Latin musicians gathered at Nashvilles Ryman Auditorium on Friday, December 5, to honor Raul Malo, the Mavericks frontman, as he faces a battle with cancer. Diagnosed with an untreatable brain cancer in September, Malo was celebrated through an uplifting yet poignantly emotional three-hour tribute during the first of two sold-out nights.

The event, titled Dance the Night Away: A 35-Year Musical Legacy Celebrating the Mavericks & Honoring Raul Malo, highlighted the bands pioneering role in blending country with Latin sounds and also recognized Malo with the American Eagle Award from the National Music Council of the United States. Chairman Charlie Saunders presented the award mid-show, acknowledging Malos dedication to preserving Americas multilingual musical heritage and his support of music education. Previous recipients of this honor include Stephen Sondheim, Quincy Jones, Dizzy Gillespie, and Kris Kristofferson.

Malo, a Florida-born singer, songwriter, and guitarist of Cuban descent, co-founded the Mavericks and led the band through their 1990s peak, mixing neo-traditional country, classic pop, rock, and Latin influences like Tex-Mex and Afro-Cuban rhythms. His distinctive vibrato and captivating stage presence earned the band global recognition and admiration from fellow musicians, many of whom performed at the tribute in his absence.

Unable to attend due to hospitalization, Malo shared a letter read to the audience by label head Scott Borchetta. In it, he expressed gratitude for fans and collaborators, reflecting on how music sustained him through his illness and how he hoped it would continue to inspire and heal. The Mavericks accepted the award on his behalf.

The night featured performances from established artists like Jeff Hanna, Jim Lauderdale, and Steve Earle, alongside younger admirers including Maggie Rose and JD McPherson. Each artist paid homage to Malo as a creative force while celebrating the Mavericks exceptional live performances. The bands ten members delivered a dynamic set, blending deep grooves, horns, and rhythmic flair that kept both the wings and the audience dancing.

Ray Benson of Asleep at the Wheel and other veterans shared humorous and heartfelt stories about Malos spirited personality. Rodney Crowell likened the Mavericks rebellious energy to that of Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings, praising Malos defiance and authenticity. Highlights included soulful renditions by James Otto, accordion duets with Percy Cardona and Michael Guerra, and rock-infused performances by Jaime Hanna and Chuck Mead.

Guitarist Eddie Perez and founding bassist Robert Reynolds reflected on the emotional resonance of the evening, sharing personal memories of Malos impact. Reynolds, who rejoined the Mavericks onstage for the first time in years, played the rhythm for All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down, bringing the show to a triumphant climax.

The evening concluded with a spirited ensemble performance of Dance the Night Away, a song emblematic of the Mavericks unique style, combining samba rhythms, brass, and a sense of joyful abandon. Perez closed the night as the band linked arms, declaring, We are and always will be the Mavericks.

A portion of the tributes proceeds will support Stand Up to Cancer. The second night of Dance the Night Away continues at the Ryman Auditorium on Saturday and will also be streamed via Nugs.net.

Author: Ava Mitchell