“I like to remember things my own way. How I remembered them, not necessarily the way they happened.”
This iconic quote from David Lynch's Lost Highway now holds a deeper significance following his passing. As we remember him, we reflect not only on his visionary work in cinema but on the lasting impression he left on both film and music.
The legendary filmmaker, who passed away at the age of 78, redefined the boundaries of storytelling and artistic expression, shaping a unique legacy that continues to inspire.
The death of the visionary filmmaker who made masterpieces such as Mulholland Drive, Dune (1984), and the highly acclaimed ABC drama series Twin Peaks was announced by his family on social media.
“It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch. We would appreciate some privacy at this time. There’s a big hole in the world now that he’s no longer with us. But, as he would say, ‘Keep your eye on the donut and not on the hole,’” the family said in a post on Lynch’s Facebook page.
While there is no confirmation of the cause of his death, according to Variety the filmmaker revealed in 2024 that he was diagnosed with emphysema and would not be leaving his home because of fears of contracting the coronavirus or “even a cold.”
“I’ve gotten emphysema from smoking for so long, and so I’m homebound whether I like it or not,” Lynch said, adding he didn’t expect to make another film.
“I would try to do it remotely if it comes to it,” Lynch said. “I wouldn’t like that so much.”
However, he followed up with a post on social media, saying that despite the physical challenges, he “will never retire.”
Lynch, known for his films like Blue Velvet, Mulholland Drive, and the series Twin Peaks, radicalised the American film industry with his dark, surrealistic artistic vision.
Lynch received an honorary Academy Award for his lifetime achievements. Earlier, he had received four Oscar nominations, three of which were for Best Director. His film Wild at Heart won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
Tributes for Lynch poured in from across the film fraternity.
“Singular, visionary dreamer who directed films that felt handmade,” Steven Spielberg said in a tribute to Lynch.
“The world is going to miss such an original and unique voice. His films have already stood the test of time, and they always will,” Spielberg added.
“I am astounded and heartbroken. I can’t express with any words the profound loss of the great David Lynch, my friend,” director Francis Ford Coppola said in a post on Instagram.
“Across the decades, David’s impact on cinema proved indelible in his films and his art - and he always gave back to AFI, supportive of the storytellers who wrote their own rules and reached for something different,” the American Film Institute said in a post on Instagram.
The passing of the uniquely talented and visionary filmmaker David Lynch leaves a profound void not just in cinema but also in the music world, where his influence has shaped generations of artists.
Lynch created music for many of his films, collaborated with other artists, directed music videos, released his own albums, and inspired countless creatives. His innovative approach to soundtracks, collaborations, and original compositions added layers of depth to his work and inspired artists across genres.
Here’s a look at key songs tied to Lynch’s legacy:
1. In Heaven – Eraserhead
Lynch's 1978 debut film Eraserhead features this haunting track performed by a radiator-dwelling character. Its surreal charm resonates with indie rock fans, inspiring covers by The Pixies and interpolation in Modest Mouse’s Workin’ on Leavin’ the Livin’.
2. Chris Isaak – Wicked Game
Isaak’s 1989 ballad gained iconic status after featuring in Lynch’s Wild at Heart. The song's brooding sensuality complements the film’s tone, exemplifying Lynch’s knack for redefining music’s impact.
3. Angelo Badalamenti – Twin Peaks Theme
Lynch’s collaboration with Badalamenti yielded the ethereal Twin Peaks theme, epitomising the series’ eerie beauty. Julee Cruise’s Falling, a vocal version of the theme, became a signature hit.
4. Moby – Go
Moby sampled the Twin Peaks theme in his 1991 single, launching his career. Lynch later directed Moby’s 2009 music video for Shot in the Back of the Head, showcasing his visual influence on music.
5. David Lynch – Thank You Judge
From Lynch’s debut album BlueBOB (2001), this industrial blues track is heavy with distortion and reverb, echoing his avant-garde aesthetic.
6. David Lynch and Karen O – Pinky’s Dream
Lynch collaborated with Karen O of Yeah Yeah Yeahs on this electro-pop opener from his 2011 album Crazy Clown Time, blending her dynamic vocals with his surreal soundscapes.
7. David Lynch and Lykke Li – I’m Waiting Here
This melancholic duet from Lynch’s 2013 album The Big Dream melds dreamy doo-wop with Li’s haunting vocals, evoking imagery of endless horizons.
8. Chromatics – Shadow
Featured in Twin Peaks: The Return (2017), this synthpop gem perfectly complements Lynch’s vision. Chromatics’ ethereal performance feels tailor-made for the show’s mysterious world.
9. Flying Lotus – Fire Is Coming
Lynch lends his distinct narration to this 2019 track, looping the title phrase over Flying Lotus’ experimental beats, adding a uniquely haunting layer.
10. Chrystabell & David Lynch – Sublime Eternal Love
The closing track from Cellophane Memories, Lynch’s final album, pairs Chrystabell’s hypnotic vocals with ambient soundscapes, creating a poignant farewell to his musical career.
David Lynch’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy endures through his unparalleled contributions to film, music, and art. His work continues to captivate, challenge, and inspire generations, reminding us to embrace the surreal and to find beauty in the unconventional.
As the iconic quote goes, “I like to remember things my own way,” and the world will remember him in its own way too - as a singular visionary whose influence will resonate forever.