Written in 10 Minutes, Remembered Among 1990s TV Fans Forever: The Story Behind “Laura Palmer’s Theme” From ‘Twin Peaks’

Some of the most memorable songs in music history are TV theme songs, whether shows made brilliant use of an existing song or created something entirely new. They become forever associated with that show’s world and characters, effortlessly transporting fans back there every time they hear it. And when it comes to ’90s TV, few themes are as iconic as “Laura Palmer’s Theme,” also known as “Love Theme,” from Twin Peaks.

The moody, haunting theme was composed by Angelo Badalamenti and perfectly captured the show’s surreal atmosphere, as well as the mystery surrounding the character of Laura. David Lynch himself agreed, saying, “It’s the mood of the whole piece. It is ‘Twin Peaks.’” It was often featured in some of the series’ most important and poignant scenes.

“Laura Palmer’s Theme” Is Considered Angelo Badalamenti’s Magnum Opus by Many ‘Twin Peaks’ Fans

In the documentary featurette Secrets from Another Place, Badalamenti provided great insight into his composing process, particularly his working relationship with Lynch and how he helped Lynch’s vision come to life. Rather than watch a finished scene, as most composers do, he and Lynch would sit together at Badalamenti’s Fender Rhodes piano while Lynch described what was happening, and Badalamenti would improvise as Lynch spoke. While Lynch set the scene of Laura emerging from dark woods, Badalamenti played what became “Laura Palmer’s Theme.” When Badalamenti said he’d work on the piece, Lynch replied, “Work on it?! Don’t change a note.” And so in mere minutes, the Twin Peaks theme was born.

In a 2011 interview with NME, Badalamenti noted the role music played in the show, saying, “The music was such an important part of that show, almost as if it was a major character.” It also earned him critical acclaim. The song won the 1990 Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance.

Badalamenti worked with Lynch frequently throughout both men’s careers, including in an experimental jazz group called Thought Gang. Most notably, Badalamenti composed music for other Lynch projects like Blue Velvet and Mulholland Drive, and it’s impossible to imagine Lynch’s work without Badalamenti’s signature fusion of ambient, jazz, and rockabilly. In addition to Lynch, Badalamenti also worked with such musicians as David Bowie, Michael Jackson, Paul McCartney, Nina Simone, and more.

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