Rebekah Del Rio, Notable Singer, Passes Away at 57

Rebekah Del Rio, the American singer-songwriter celebrated for her captivating performance in David Lynch’s Mulholland Drive, has died at the age of 57.

Her death was reported on June 23, found in an apartment in Los Angeles. The coroner’s office has not yet confirmed the cause.

Del Rio gained recognition from her rendition of “Llorando,” a Spanish interpretation of Roy Orbison’s “The Cry,” featured in the 2001 film. During a poignant club scene, she performed live, though some initially thought it was a lip-synced act. She later clarified that she sang multiple takes to capture the same emotional resonance, ensuring her vibrato was authentic for the film’s stars like Naomi Watts and Laura Harring watching intently.

“There were a lot of takes, and I sang each time because I needed to create that same feeling,” Del Rio explained in a 2022 interview.

According to reports, her connection with Lynch began through their shared agent, Brian Lukes. Interestingly, Lynch had asked her to perform “Llorando” during their first meeting, which solidified her role in the film.

Del Rio later reunited with Lynch for the 2017 revival of Twin Peaks: The Return, and had memorable roles in Southland Tales, 2307: Winter Dream, and This Teacher. Her voice also featured in the soundtracks for City of Sin and Mia Sarah.

The singer, who hailed from San Diego, passed away just six months after Lynch’s own death in early 2025.

Fans of Lynch are mourning her loss, expressing sentiments like, “We will miss a remarkable artist with a beautiful voice. She will forever be in our hearts.” One fan noted how her enchanting performances, particularly in Mulholland Drive and The Return, left a lasting impact.

Del Rio is survived by her son, Philip C. Demars, who tragically died in 2009 at the age of 23.