Charting With A Bullet
Although it might be too late to apologize for all the short-sighted critics who even now continue to forecast David’s niche in Disney drivel or Groban goo, reality has a funny way of proving the fallacy of predictions.
With well over 500,000 views in just four days across all the YouTube uploads of David’s brilliant duet with One Republic, it looks like Archie’s ability to hit with soulful, contemporary pop is already being proven. This in addition to the buzz volume on just how stunning this performance is–folks just can’t seem to get enough of it.
Play it:
Watch it:[youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0D9cnShTOAI]
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It was the highlight of the night! It’s no surprise that people are all over it. David added so much to the sound.
For me, equally stunning was David’s and DC’s “Hero”. They were so into it, riffing off each other, high and low- awesome!
Against better judgement I checked out TMZ after the finale. No surprise that the slaxgging continues- to the tune of, it’s over for David and he’s soon to be forgotten. Worse, is the gleeful tone it’s all delivered with. It was heartening to read that amongst the haters and the cynics the majority of replies were giving the wriiter a taking down and setting him straight about David’s bright future in music.
After DC’s duet with ZZTops I started getting a bit worried for David because I was thinking the producers mignt sandbag him like they did with Syesha by linking him with the Jonas Brothers. To my relief they sang sans David. Then to my delightful surprise -- in the middle of Apologize -- you first hear screams and applause followed by David giving the best strut I’ve ever seen him do on stage. (he must be learning something from DC afterall). David then proceeds to sing and out comes one of the most sizzling vocals I’ve heard him produce.
David definitely needs to take note of this performance and the positive buzz about it all into consideration as he plots the course of his new album. He mentioned he wanted to do stuff for kids his age and singer/songwriter stuff, BUT he should also gear it towards adult contemporary pop for it to be totally successful. Isn’t it ironic that after all the tags of David to Disney its DC who had a Disney spot after the finale instead? lol!
This “true musical soul” who is “destined for super stardom” will not be denied! While the last 5 months have been “faaantastic” I am giddy with anticipation for what’s to come.
What’ s going to be more than crazy is to see the critics and cynics one by one fall under DJ’s magical spell. There must be great joy and freedom when “you, you can sing anything”.
I don’t think we have to concern ourselves with the commercial success of DJ. My prediction is that he will be one of the greatest cross over talents of all time. I trust David’s instincts, and those of Dolly Parton, Andrew Lloyd Weber, David Foster, completely.
I’ve lost count of how many times I have watched this performance. I’ve lost track of how many times I have listened to the download on my ipod.
It was like looking into the future. He seemed soooo relaxed, happy and totally into the music. Love, love, loved it. I’d be surprised if he didn’t want to sing this during the competition.
I am almost afraid to say he will be one of the greatest singers of our time, BUT I feel in my heart he will be.
This was the highlight of the night for me because I enjoy this song immensely and got chills when David strutted out on stage to harmonize. He not only added depth to the performance but embellished the song so beautifully.
I don’t understand his detractors. It used to be that people would give credit where credit is due. It now seems that jealousy and hatred are the norm. But this just galvanizes me. It shows me that DA is the real thing and that when you don’t fit a stereotype or cannot be pigeonholed, that the The Media/Hollywood will make up or speculate on what they cannot find. Perception is *not* truth.
I seriously can’t wait until I can get my hands on an album of his.
He was amazing on this song. Funny thing, too, my husband was sort of almost lukewarm about David all season, and he sat there fretting because David didn’t get a larger part. LOL.
This song is definitely getting a lot of iPod play from me.
Hey, Rascal, if you are in touch with David’s people, could you ask if he’s working on a website? Some of the IDF people are asking for it, and we’re so hungry for news.
Thanks for posting these clips, Rascal. I too got chills when David strutted onto the stage and continue to each time I hear this — the vibe just seems so right for him. I love how he looks like he’s waking from a dream when the song finishes (talk about being “in the zone”!) and also how all 3 judges give him a standing-O. (And I think that having the Jonas Bros. on the show was actually a good thing — it certainly made it crystal clear that DA’s in a completely different league than the bubble-gum pop stars some try to lump him in with.)
It’s so hard for me to choose a favorite when it comes to one of David’s performances but, this one is sitting right at the top of the list! I was on my feet when he came walking out onto that stage. I litterally got goosebumps. I’m waiting on it to be available on ITunes but, I’m guessing they aren’t going to release it for download.
I agree with the earlier post: I would love to find out if David is going to have an official website or fan club. Any information on this?
I just finished watching this on my iphone for the *mumble mumble* time
and then I came here and saw this
I wonder why they haven’t released this as a single, or even as a video to purchase on itunes. It would be high on the charts if they did.
In a time where many people are questioning the salability/marketability of David A, the release of this song would certainly be a better gauge then the iTunes stuff they’ve currently released for him.
Something else of note, in regards to David, the audio on this sounds correct for once.
I noticed during top 2 night that his audio was low, and was lower, to my ear, then David Cook’s. I also noticed it during the finale as well, especially during the Heroes duet all the way up to this duet.
It has happened throughout the season as well, and has made me wonder about TPTB’s intentions.
Specualtion, but nonetheless, something to note…
I also noticed he seemed to come out of some sort of dream (like being one with the music) at the end of that song -- I think it happened in other performances too. It is fascinating to watch. This makes me even more convinced he will be one of the greats, don’t know quite how to put it into words though, just a sense and feeling I have and that’s from watching the TV. I can’t imagine what it might be like to hear and see it all in person. But, I’ll wait till he’s on his own tour.
My ODD is not getting better, UGGH. I think I might need help. JK
Count me in for the official fan club.
You are right, thatmancansing, when David sang “Love Me Tender” he had the same llook at the end the song--he is the music. I look forward to more of those performances, meanwhile, I’ll keep playing what I have over and over.
I’ve accepted my ODD and am now guilt free--much more fun place to be--I read Rascal’s comment again about accepting what “feeds his soul” and took that advice to heart.
It was a phenomenal performance and the confirmation of a STAR is born. David’s vocal was so clear and pure that gave me chill all over my heart and soul, just like the first day I saw him at AI. He made a historical mark at AI, a timeless moment for every one to remember either you love DA or not.
Thanking the stars for thsi site, as I can no longer bear to receive my archuleta fix via the tween forums. My kids are laughing at me, and my husband’s beginning to wonder if I have a problem.
Since the finale, I’ve also become a huge fan of One Republic. If you read their blog, Ryen (sp?) explains his motives for his music -- which -- amazingly enough are reminiscent of Archuleta’s.
I think David’s prayers were answered when he found himself paired with One Republic. He may be 17, but in that few minutes on stage, he aged 10 years. I loved the exchange at the very end just before David heads away from the piano -- where he and Ryen are “hailing” eachother. I would love to hear what One Republic thought of the performance!
David Archuleta has the “wow factor”.
Amazing talent -- and I agree -- he’s almost in a dream state when he sings, isn’t he? Sort of explains the expression on his face after his performances, like he wasn’t sure what just happened.
Thanks for this site… good to know I’m not crazy.
TOfan –you are dead on about the contrast between David and the Jonas Bros.
David’s intensity and sheer vocal prowess was there for all to witness. (In a league of his own.) I’m certain many people were won over that night. Each time David was on he shone brilliantly. I’m sure many nay-sayers had the experience of having their mouths forced shut throughout the program
The shot of the One Republic singer and David in the foreground (between 2:40 –2:45) giving it all they’ve got, is earth shaking.
I so agree with these comments of David. I loved the performance with One Republic. I was very upset on finale night that they did not let him sing with one of his idols like Bryan Adams. I heard the song start and then I heard David Cook and I was like UGH…that did not sound good. Then David starting singing and it was amazing. His voice was so smooth and beautiful, that song fit him good. I don’t know if any of the record producers noticed but he sounded so great when he joined in with One Republic. They did so great together. The media is not giving David enough credit. This type of music fits him so good. He could put out so many types of cds, pop, R & B, gospel, even a Christmas cd. As far as Simon saying he has no charisma….he has it all. His personality and talent shines above the rest. His personality is one of the first things I noticed about him. He is so diifferent than most artists. He has his own style and is unique and to me that makes him more original that anyone. He is far so above the Disney thing. There is no comparison. He is a serious artist and above the whole American Idol show. He represents what an American Idol should be all wrapped up into one beautiful soul of a 17 yr old boy from Utah.
THANK YOU for providing that download link, I’m so happy to add that to my collection!!! If you find one for that “Hero” duet, please share!
Now, sorry to get a bit off track on this particular message string, but I’m curious—did anyone else hear “thanks for voting for contestant 1″ when they voted for our David? I could have sworn I did a couple of times, in fact I checked my speed dial once to be sure I had the right ph#s plugged in—and all 3 *were* correct. So I thought I must have just mis-heard it. Most of the time I didn’t wait for the whole “thanks…” message--just hung up and dialed again, so I’m not sure how many mistaken votes might have been cast. Didn’t really think about it again until I just ran across this article:
http://www.seacoastonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080523/ENTERTAIN/80523026
Not that it matters in the least, because our David’s life-long singing career is assured, there can be no doubts about that! But the 12-million vote discrepancy really surprised and baffled (and disturbed), me after the vote being so close in previous rounds, so I’m curious, did anyone else hear that wrong message when they voted?
Yeah, I think this the millionth time I’ve watched it. LOL now I just fast forward to the part before David walked out. I’m officially jealous of the live audience who got to experience this awesome performance!!! Consensus are that the TV does not do David’s voice enough justice -- could be the technical manipulations??
I love David’s harmonising at 2:30 “It’s too late..” -- beautiful notes.
musicao, the earth-shaking shots between 2:40 to 2:45…Rascal used one of the shot…
The best performance of the night, no contest!
I love this video! He is just over the top! And as a note to post #18, yes, I did get the wrong message, even though I checked and rechecked the numbers I was dialing for David A, and then after eventually hearing the correct number, we (me and my daughters) made over 1500 votes, however, not listening to the entire message each time, so who really knows. I thought it was unnessary for Ryan Seacrest to announce the amount of votes that won the competition anyway. I guess we will never know for sure. In any event, David A is an incredible talent and I can wait to follow his every success. Thanks Rascal for keeping this site going and for the wonder posts. (Sorry -- above I meant post #17)
What struck me was how nervous the lead singer’s voice sounded in the beginning, and how calm David was when he came out—he really made the song settle into its groove, and it turned out fantastic. David seemed much more in control than the seasoned “pro”!! I’m not familiar with One Republic, so I got on YouTube to listen to the original track to see if that guy could sing decently--he’s OK (lol), but DJ rescued the song that night! I, too, FastFW to his entrance. I was less than enthusiastic about it that night because I felt David was getting short-changed, just singing backup vocals on that cut. I didn’t understand why he wouldn’t have been positioned to play the piano and sing lead, he could have done a better job of it!!! But I’m grateful to be able to listen to it again (and again and again…!) now that AI is a thing of the past. Thank you, Rascal, and G O D A V I D !
(And thank you Lora for confirmation, I’m certain the gap was not so wide, but I’m letting go of it now, knowing that David is better off charting his own path, rather than continuing to be in AI clutches. How prescient is rascal’s “Rebel Without a Crown”.)
Sorry, that was “Go David!”, guess you can’t put spaces between the letters here. (Although David could probably walk on water too…!!!!)
Brilliant musical performances are so rare these days with all the studio enhancements that so-called artists depend on to make their voice sound only okay. David’s voice, on the other hand, begs to be left alone. He possesses an instrument that the studio cannot imitate, and that is one of the reasons why people are uneasy with a David Archuleta. He’s so original that he’s different. People don’t like different and that’s why we witnessed what we did on Wednesday.
On American Idol with all the constraints of banal theme weeks and production right clearances, David turned crappy songs (think “Longer” and “Another Day in Paradise”) into simply amazing performances. This performance with OneRepublic allows David to actually sing a decent song, and what do we end up with? A performance so stunning it cannot be put into words. This is only a peek at what is to come for David Archuleta and to say that I am feeling excited for the future of music is an understatement.
Rascal, I’m starting to believe that you’re a psychic because what you have stated so far in all of your articles have been true. It’s kinda creepin’ me out, but in a good way.
Stunning. Beautiful. Brilliant. Haunting. Mesmerizing. Words that describe this duet and David Archuleta. The irony is that 15 minutes before he gets kicked in the gut and loses to Cook, the producers finally give him a song that shows how current and truly marketable he is and it’s obvious to everyone. “It’s too late to apologize” for that, producers. It’s too late to apologize, judges, for finally giving him the standing O he has deserved countless times this season, but has never gotten.
He looked and sounded like a mature, seasoned much older performer.
He absolutely radiated light and peace whenever he appeared on the stage.
The other irony of the night is that I’d wager any one of us here in fandom could give a pretty good rendition of “Sharp Dressed Man” and sound as good as Cook. You don’t need brilliant vocals to sing rock. But the moment when Tedder ends his bit and David comies in on his is my vindication of the entire season, if I needed any. It’s so obvious David has an iconic voice -- that’s why people are comparing him to Elvis and Sinatra. And the constant uproarious screaming in the background gives us a sense of what it must have been like in the theatre. Love it.
I truly am not really that bitter. It’s just that it’s too late to apologize American Idol, for your shameless promotion of a less talent than David Archuleta.
#23 archu-adorable,
I could not agree more with all your comments. I mentioned similar comments about the standing “O” on one of his finale youtube vids.
Week after week, David poured out excellent vocals- especially Stand by Me and finale night, and not one time would they give him some validation. Paula must have stood for DC about 3 times, Randy- one time, added to that the look of joy on Simon’s face as the results were announced. I also figured something was up when DC sang so much more of Sharp-Dressed Man than ZZTop and David only got part of a solo but boy did he shine. The only consolation I can take away from the finale nught is that David auditioned for the world to see -- a bit more experienced, with a new vocal prowess than when he first began the competition and leaving us all hungry with a taste for more.
Wanted to share this nice Q&A article — not 100% polished, but includes some cool stuff about David’s underrated arrangement of “Think of Me” and his love of the piano (Musicao, as a fellow Torontonian you may have read this already, it’s from tvguide.ca):
http://tvguide.sympatico.msn.ca/Interviews/Insider/Articles/080526_david_archuleta_idol_DW
archu_dorable I can’t help but remember all the furor over “ Longer Than” Their insistence that David sing it with the traditional arrangement vs. the refresh that he’d requested, can only be seen as sabotage. Remember that Simon had the gall to criticize the song choice as if it was David’s selection. Of course, he delivered a solid performance regardless of the sappy material he had to work with. As one of us on this site stated before, they were after him to not play it safe, so what gives? Something is truly rotten in the state of AI.
I’m sure we’re going to read of many more such bitter ironies when Dean Kaelin releases his notes. They will only confirm what we’ve suspected all along. (I don’t need to elaborate)
It’s too late to apologize for messing with a talented and sensitive artist. (The cattle prod analogy comes to mind.) Once again, you just have to admire David’s tenacity for continuing to perform beyond expectations despite their meddling and manipulation. It’s our boy who should have received apologies for several offences. He deserved so much better.
KAIT The defiant tone you spoke of in David’s final two performances (“An open letter” thread) seems all the more legitimate to me now given all the apparent messing and deception.
As most of us have stated here, David’s abilities, and character are beyond any competition. Considering how well he held up through this, the comparative simplicity of touring and recording should feel like a vacation to him. If the finale is any indication, we can expect a newly freed David to truly soar.
A thought: I think we’re a fair distance from hearing original DA compositions. In the meantime, It would be awesome to have a place for fans to post suggestions for songs they think David should take a look at. I’m pretty sure there are genres of music that he hasn’t considered drawing from. His powers of interpretation make any genre a gold mine lying undisturbed. I’m sure his Mom and Dad can help here with their musical backgrounds. (But we have to allow for some youthful rebellion, as incongruous with David’s personality as it seems lol)
Anyway, can’t wait to hear it all!
TOfan Thanks for the interview – I hadn’t seen it before.
It’s one of the best. It’s obvious why he gets (nearly) straight A’s. He articulates his thoughts so well here. I really enjoyed the section where he describes how the music he’s singing is literally in his hands when playing the piano. And he emphasizes so strongly that he wants music to be first priority right now.
Here’s what I think: Secretly David knows how much brighter he’s going to burn now that all the pressure to compete and be judged, is off. He probably feels all that we felt about that final night. He’s thinking along the lines of: Now I’m going to show you – you ain’t seen nothin’ yet.
Also this one really gave some indication of the backstage life that I haven’t really felt till now.
830,317+ hits on youtube for One Republic/David Archuleta’s rendition of “Apologize”!
That’s: 118,617 hits PER DAY (it’s only been playing for 7 days so far).
Yet they’ve removed David’s songs from iTunes. The A.I. “don’t do better than our Idol just yet” philosophy.
Helllllp! The withdrawal is painful. Again I’m being selfish. I’ve ‘heard’ that David is home now, and I’m glad, but I miss him.
Okay. Well. I’ll go send that 118617 on Apologize to 118618,19,30…
Then off to Imagine and Stand by Me and…
That’ll be enough until the concert, and then the CD. It has to.
IM ADDICTED to this VID.
i LOVED this song before and when I realized Archie was singing it with OneRepublic I was ECSTATIC. He gave a breathtaking performance and now I can’t listen to the original. His input gave the song such depth and SOUL.
it makes me even more antsy for his post Idol career… ALBUM CONCERT ETC
I also agree that Ryan Tedder should have backed off a bit and let Archie take more of a lead in the song… just because it was more about Archie that night that Tedder.
However, of course David still shined like always. There was nothing Tedder could do to stop that.
just Beautiful.
To give a different perspective to comments made by 20 and 24:
I think that AI actually did David A. a big favor in having him perform with One Republic. It allowed DA to show yet another aspect of his versatility as an artist. He didn’t so much as sing with Ryan Tedder as he harmonized with him. DA blended himself into the song with stunning impact, yet allowed the song to maintain it’s original integrity – One Republic’s version, right down to his mimickry of “It’s too late to POLIGIZE, it’s too late” in the one chorus he did sing. It is my opinion that this takes more musical artistry than to more simply sing the song, as did DC with ZZ Top’s song.
A bit of an aside: In the AI’s finale red carpet musicians video when they spoke with Ryan Tedder of One Republic it came up that they were asked only one week prior to the finale – the last minute to my way of thinking – to participate in the finale. They had to come from England where they had been performing. I believe that AI’s original intention was to have DA sing with the Jonas Brothers, but changed their minds. Thank goodness!
Awestruck