The Mavericks have revealed that they are set to host a guest-filled two-night tribute to country music legend Raul Malo at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium. Malo will be in attendance at the shows but will not perform on stage as he continues his battle with cancer.
The Mavericks To Host Tribute For Raul Malo
The band announced the news on Instagram, confirming that the two-night tribute concert will take place between December 5 and 6 of this year in Nashville, Tennessee. The concerts come under the name “Dance The Night Away” and are described as “a 35-year musical legacy celebrating The Mavericks and honoring Raul Malo.”
The statement from the band continues, “A 2-night tribute show in honor of Raul and the band’s decades-long history and contributions to American and Latin music, these special evenings will feature guest appearances from an exceptional lineup of friends and artists performing selections from The Mavericks’ storied catalog of classics.”
Among the many bands and acts that are confirmed to be joining The Mavericks on stage for performances are Steve Earle, Marty Stuart, Patty Griffin, Jamey Johnson, and James Otto. Malo will be in the crowd for the concerts but is not able to perform.
“While Raul is not able to perform, he will be present and honored throughout both nights,” the band wrote on Instagram. “These shows will take the place of our previously scheduled Ryman dates, with all tickets to remain valid and no new tickets necessary. We look forward to seeing you all in December for a celebration of music, memories, and the remarkable legacy of Raul Malo and The Mavericks.”
Meanwhile, Malo added his own message to thank fans for their well-wishes and express his excitement at the upcoming concerts. He said, “I’m really looking forward to these two nights at the Ryman. The overwhelming support and love from my musician friends, fans, friends and family will prove these shows to be something special.”
Raul Malo’s Battle With Cancer
Malo first revealed that he had cancer earlier this year, detailing that he had been diagnosed with leptomeningeal disease (LMD), a rarer form of cancer. His extensive treatment plan and a surgery in August has meant that The Mavericks have postponed almost all of their gigs in 2025 since the news was revealed.
Malo has shared regular updates on his health, both bad and good, over the last few months. For example, in March he wrote on Instagram, “Received some great news this week and I wanted to share. My doctors are thrilled with my progress so far, hernia and all. All my scans so far have come back clear including the PET scan from last week. All my vital signs are excellent as well. We’ll know the next steps in the next week or so. Doctors will review all the scans and data and they’ll determine the next steps.”
