Entertainment
Rebekah Del Rio, Voice of 'Mulholland Drive,' Passes Away at 57
2025-06-27

Rebekah Del Rio, the distinguished singer-songwriter celebrated for her unforgettable performance in David Lynch's critically acclaimed 2001 film, Mulholland Drive, has sadly passed away at the age of 57. Her Spanish-language rendition of Roy Orbison's classic, "Crying," titled "Llorando," became an iconic moment in cinematic history. Del Rio's passing, confirmed by the Los Angeles Coroner's Office on June 23rd at her Los Angeles residence, leaves a void in the music and film communities. While the cause of death has not been released, her nephew, Dan Coronado, shared a heartfelt tribute, acknowledging her extraordinary talent and expressing gratitude for having recently heard her sing.

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Born in San Diego in 1967, Del Rio relocated to Los Angeles to advance her musical aspirations. It was there that she forged a significant connection with director David Lynch through their shared agent, Brian Loucks. Loucks introduced Lynch to "Llorando," a pivotal moment that led to its inclusion in Mulholland Drive. Her deeply emotional delivery of the song in the surreal Club Silencio scene, alongside actors Naomi Watts and Laura Harring, is etched into the memories of viewers. Despite the on-screen illusion of lip-syncing, Del Rio famously revealed that she performed the song live during every take, pouring her soul into each powerful crescendo, aiming to deeply connect with her fellow actors and the film's crew.

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Beyond her iconic role in Mulholland Drive, Del Rio's artistic partnership with Lynch continued with her appearance in the Showtime revival of Twin Peaks: The Return, where she performed "No Stars" alongside Moby. Her versatile voice also graced the soundtracks of several other films, including Sin City, Southland Tales, Streets of Legend, and Man on Fire. Throughout her career, she also released her own albums, such as Nobody's Angel, All My Life, and Love Hurts Love Heals, showcasing her diverse musical range and profound artistry. Her legacy is one of unwavering dedication to her craft and an ability to convey profound emotion through her compelling vocalizations.

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Rebekah Del Rio's life was a testament to the power of artistic expression and the lasting impact one voice can have on the world. Her commitment to her art, even performing live for multiple takes in a demanding film scene, exemplifies a profound passion and integrity that resonates far beyond the screen. Her journey reminds us that true talent, coupled with dedication, can create timeless moments that inspire and move generations, leaving behind an enduring legacy of beauty and emotional depth.

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