‘Mulholland Drive’ Club Silencio Singer Was 57

Rebekah Del Rio, a talented singer-songwriter known for her iconic performance of “Llorando” in David Lynch’s film “Mulholland Drive,” passed away on June 23 at the age of 57 at her home in Los Angeles. The news of her death was confirmed by the Los Angeles Coroner’s Office, although no further details surrounding the circumstances of her passing have been disclosed.

Del Rio’s collaboration with Lynch began in the mid-’90s when they were introduced by their mutual CAA agent, Brian Loucks. At the time, Del Rio was signed under a country record deal in Nashville, Tennessee, following her recording of “Llorando,” a Spanish-language rendition of Roy Orbison’s “Crying.” Lynch was captivated by Del Rio’s performance and secretly recorded her singing the song, which later became the centerpiece of the Club Silencio scene in “Mulholland Drive.”

The Club Silencio sequence in the film is a pivotal moment that elicits a deep emotional response from the characters and audience alike. Del Rio’s powerful rendition of “Llorando” leaves both Naomi Watts and Laura Elena Harring in tears as they watch her perform in the hauntingly beautiful setting. Despite the revelation that Del Rio’s character was lip-syncing in the film, the singer actually sang live for every take during filming to capture the raw emotion of the scene.

In a 2022 interview with IndieWire, Del Rio reflected on her experience filming the iconic scene, sharing that she sang along during each take to convey the same emotional intensity to the audience and the film’s stars. Her performance in “Mulholland Drive” catapulted her into the spotlight, leading to collaborations with other filmmakers such as Richard Kelly, who featured her in his film “Southland Tales.”

Del Rio’s connection with Lynch extended throughout his career, with the singer making appearances in Lynch’s projects like “Twin Peaks: The Return” and touring with The Red Room Orchestra. Tragically, less than two weeks before her death, Del Rio performed at a charity event screening of “Mulholland Drive” in Los Angeles.

Born on July 10, 1967, in Chula Vista, California, Del Rio began her musical career in San Diego before relocating to Los Angeles. She was a mother to a son, Phillip C. DeMars, who sadly passed away in 2009 at the age of 23.

Rebekah Del Rio’s legacy as a talented performer and collaborator with David Lynch will continue to resonate within the film industry and the hearts of those who were touched by her music. Her soulful voice and captivating presence will be dearly missed but forever cherished by fans and colleagues alike.