The rock world is mourning the loss of visionary filmmaker David Lynch, who passed away on January 16, 2025, at the age of 78.
Renowned for his surreal and suspenseful works like Mulholland Dr., Blue Velvet, and the groundbreaking TV series Twin Peaks, Lynch’s influence extended deeply into the music industry.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Lynch was a musician with three studio albums and a passion for painting and photography. He directed music videos for artists such as Nine Inch Nails, Chris Isaak, Interpol, and X Japan. His collaborations included working with David Bowie, Chris Isaak, Marilyn Manson, and Trent Reznor on various film projects.
Rock musicians have shared heartfelt tributes:
- Billy Corgan of Smashing Pumpkins, who contributed “Eye” to Lynch’s Lost Highway soundtrack, reflected, “Working with him was like a dream out of one of his movies… He was a true artist, through and through.”
- Mike Portnoy, drummer of Dream Theater, expressed, “So sad to hear of the passing of one of my all-time greatest film heroes: the one and only David Lynch. This one hits hard. In heaven, everything is fine… #RIPDavidLynch.”
- Scott Ian of Anthrax shared his personal experience: “David Lynch was a true gentleman as well as a brilliant filmmaker, writer, and television visionary… At some point, David thought I looked like a death row inmate and cast me in Lost Highway.”
Lynch’s family announced his passing on Facebook, stating, “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.’ … .”
His unique vision and artistic contributions have left an indelible mark on both film and music, inspiring countless artists and fans alike.
