He Who Shall Not Be Denied
And lo, he looked out over the landscape of the nation, over all the watercooler debates and snarky press dismissals, over all the producer manipulations and judge coercions, the skepticism and rationalizations, and he saw the non-believers, the unfortunate faithless, and he said unto them, “behold, and hear me, and you shall doubt no more.”
Don’t let the Sun Go Down on Me
Dont_Let_The_Sun_Go_Down_on_Me.mp3
In This Moment
In_This_Moment.mp3
Imagine
Imagine-Top_Two.mp3
ABOUT THIS AUTHOR
Yes, rascal, this is so true. He reached out and took our hearts to him. We Believe and have believed. He blew off more than the roof tonight, he unearthed the foundation!
rascal-you have been David’s true champion throughout this entire season. When he was bashed and verbally torn down, you defended him every step of the way -- for us -- when we couldn’t find the words to show our fierce loyalty towards this young man, you did. You were our knight, David’s knight. I adore you.
David Archuleta -- our American Idol -- for life
As I said elsewhere … Simon actually put aside his bias towards David Cook and called it honestly. Archuleta just completely raised the roof. He was simply stunning in each song selection tonight.
It was just unbelievable. I was in tears through most of it. True, David Cook was off his game and singing too much falsetto but it didn’t matter because Archie was in the zone as they say. He could do no wrong.
The media still will carp — the Chicago Tribune said his performances have become “artificial, wooden, even creepy.” Boy, these people will never get it. They are just too cynical and negative.
I actually called in and voted — something I have never done before — around 60 times tonight and never got a busy signal. Is that a bad sign? Shouldn’t the phones have been jammed?
Well, as I said … it doesn’t matter about the votes. He is THE American Idol … and nothing can change that. If anything a loss will be seen as unfair tomorrow night.
Thank you David! You’ll be in our hearts forever and ever no matter what else happens in your young career.
God Bless You!
Wow, I am stunned. I probably shouldn’t be but his performances tonight were incredible.
Your words could not be more correct, Rascal. This night was all him -- through adversity, pain, sweat and tears; it was him.
I have been trying to call in to all three numbers since the show ended and I could only get through once and i have tried probably 20 times. I text messaged my votes so far.
Does anyone still doubt that he wants this?
Tonight was magical.
David was so very wonderful, oh my goodness.
What a voice, what a wonderful, glorious
s o u l
this boy/young man has.
!
wow.
just, wow.
Great words Rascal for a Stellar Artist. Thank you David for a timeless moments. You are amazing as always for gracing us another phenomenal performances. We Love you. You Are the American Idol. God bless you and praying for you as you continue your passion. Your fan for a lifetime.
Stunning and phenomenal performances by DA tonight. Whether he gets crowned based on what the TPTB want, we fans know that DA outsung and dazzled all who were watching tonight.
Thank you David for making this season of AI worth watching. Keep singing, we’ll be listening.
I’ve never seen anything like it!!!! He threw every bit of his enormous heart and soul into those performances. Epic. HISTORIC!!! I am so thrilled for this beautiful being. Trying to find words to match his accomplishment tonight is, is… is……. aiyeeeeeeeeeee!
I am amazed, thrilled, awed and inspired. He put it all out there. It WAS EPIC and HISTORIC. He will be an ICON. I am moved beyond words only tears can express the feelings. He was flying. LEAD ON David LEAD ON.
I found this article in the LA Times that I would like to share:
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/showtracker/2008/05/american-ido-17.html
Great insight into last nights performance and into the two contestants metamorphosis from their beginnings to now.
The night of May 21, 2008 willl always be David’s night, a night I could never and will never forget. Regardless of whom is crowned “King of the Nokia”, we the fans, and the entire world are the true winners of American Idol season seven. Our prize has been, and will continue to be, experiencing David Archuleta and all that he represents.
His wings may not be viisible but his voice is his tell. He is a true angel amongst mortals; a prince amongst men! My world is truly a better place with hiim in it, and no doubtedly the world as a whole is as well.
jayemdaet -- Thanks for posting the link to Ann Powers. Ann started the season as a non-believer. She was nearly as snarky and dismissive of David as those trolls from EW. But over the weeks of the competition, she gradually began to understand (with help from some incensed and expressive commentators, yours truly among them). Her assessment of the proceedings is spot-on, and I for one am glad to see that the press is not populated entirely by dolts and dinks.
Okay, so I slept two hours. Too much caffeine and excitement and love. That kid has the biggest, purest heart, and he shared it with his audience last night. I don’t care what happens tonight. The people who don’t get him probably still won’t, and it is their loss. David Archuleta is a star. I am fortunate to be among those who recognize where he’s headed.
I’ve gone to your site many times just to read something about David, although I didn’t understand much (guess my English is bad), but I know everything you said is to support DJ, I admire you for that. Tonight show was…unbelievable, how amazing he is! He gave his all, just for us Angels!
It doesnt matter he win it or not, cuz he is already our idol
Thank you for EVERYTHING, rascal. Though these kinds of things (blogging meticulously over every careful detail of someone’s artistic growth) could generally be considered “silly”, if not downright creepy, it only seems right to witness the myriad of victories of such a wonderful, wonderful person every step of the way.
David has inspired so many of us, not only to better ourselves in our want and standard for musical perfection, but to better ourselves as a whole. I think he’d be much better off as this season’s runner up, still, but I--along with the rest of America--know how much he owns the night.
ohhoworiginal -- I know what you mean about the potential for a creepy factor, but the difference between archiving one’s comments at a unique destination rather than posting them on a general board is a matter of location more than anything else. I would also like to think that the scope of commentary makes a difference. Constant, over-the-top gushing is one thing; thoughtful analysis is quite another. Just because pieces are added in real time doesn’t mean that the work is cumulatively any less legitimate than, say, a Vanity Fair profile or even a biography.
Jesse-I think you mean May 20th!
At the end of the day, it was last night that mattered, not tonight. It’s all about the performances. You could even sense the look on David Cook’s face. When Paula said “you showed your full range to Cook” tonight I could help but think “but, yes, that’s the problem.” There was no real range. That’s all he can do. I don’t think Paula meant it that way.
And Cook always comes across as arrogant or like he just doesn’t care. The looks on his face. Cowell seemed very disappointed in him.
interesting, that both Randy and Simon “crowned” Archie unequivocally last night but Paula held back. They are the “producers.” I think they know.
I taped the performances last night and haven’t re-watched them yet because, frankly (and I’m no longer embarassed to say this), they make me cry too much.
What David touches in me — and so many — is something that despite all of Rascal’s magnificent words I can still not explain to myself or to anyone else really.
I try talking to my friends about it but they just think I’m nuts. I don’t think you can explain voices. Why they touch you. Some voices just have that way (Crosby, Ella, Callas, Florez, et al) into your heart.
Archie is one of those. He was so moved last night. So modest. There is so much riding on him. But somehow I think he can handle it. He is hope. He is youth. He is the future.
I don’t know if I can sit through 2 hours of this tonight — those of you who’ve seen the finale before (I haven’t). Should I just tune in for the last 15 minutes?
God Bless David Archuleta. No, that’s wrong. God has already blessed David. Just keep on!
Oh man, it’s just…that tingly feeling again…I don’t know…I only get it when David sings, I guess…
David, you stood and delivered, and you continually inspire us all. Thanks so much for allowing us the privilege of watching and participating in your musical journey.
Follow your calling, David, and we’ll be right there with you.
Tuesday night. Another page from David’s “Life Lessons” book. He tried to tell us in the “Top Two” interview, “It’s not always about winning”, and in the “Hollywood Week” interview, “I’m going to tell it to the judges. I’m going to make sure they understand it”. Well, it wasn’t about winning and TELL it to the judges and everyone else , he did!
Thank you David, for the Voice, the Heart, the Soul, and the Teacher. How did you get so wise?
I stand in awe.
Your Fan for Life,
J.
J.
One of the amazing things I love about David, is his talent to interpret songs. I’ve heard Elton John’s song many times, but until David sung it, I now understand and feel the meaning of the song on another level. I’ve noticed the same with other songs. He truly has a god-given talent.
With these performances, David can certainly leave the AI stage with no regrets.
“I hope it’s enough” said David…
Well kid, you did more than what could have possibly ask for. Thank you.
(Now start working on you CD! haha)
Rascal, finally I am able to sign up to post. Your artistry is a gem in itself -- the ability to communite insightful thoughts on a subject is one I wish I have. I’ve been your fan since Rickey.org. Thank you so much.
On David James (one of my favorite names), I’ve watched many AI seasons and am pleased to say that there is no one like him. He is only 17 and yet possesses so much heart and soul which he pours into his music. I simply love his voice and his being.
His finale performances were treasures to behold. I was completely overwhelmed with Don’t Let the Sun Come Down On Me -- he succeeded in taking on one of the most iconic song of all times. In This Moment was more of a triumphant song than coronation song. And Imagine, the real journey begins now.
I’m torn between commercial success and true artistry -- David James should have both. It will be a trajedy if his artistry doesn’t show in the eventual album that he makes.
Yes, I agree with you totally that David James shall not be denied. And this is only the beginning.
ariadne -- I totally did mean May 20th. Dang it! Thanks for callin’ me out. I also definitly know what you mean about getting a little (or a lot teary) watching David. I was kind of blubbery mess last night. It’s true words really can’t define him. Oh great; gonna get all “misty” again.
Janey -- I was actually coming on here to post that same “tell it/understand it ” quote. That is just such an awesome decription, from David himself, about what he tries to do, and what we all have seen him do, with his songs week in and week out.
Well David: We understood and loved every minute! Thank you.
I’ve spent my whole life in classical music. I know the difference between a fine singer and a fine singer who is also a true artist. In all my years I have heard maybe three or four “pop” singers who made me feel that I was in the presence of true greatness. David is in their league. Even at his young age, he often captures the essence of a song. I don’t want to hear anybody else sing some of the songs he has sung for us in the last several weeks. The first time I really listened to him and encountered his presence I cried on and off for about four days. I couldn’t believe my response to him. This young artist has shaken me up. And it’s all so human and spiritual and creative and uncomplicated. I feel enriched and inspired by his work. I want to practice more and compose more. I want to watch him grow and celebrate him with everyone who loves him and wishes him well.
Rascal, thank you. This site is a treasure. I have a feeling that you are, too.
David won last night. He gave us the performance we all knew was in him and that we prayed for, and then some. And in our wildest dreams we could not have imagined the judges responses. It was historic. We don’t even need to watch results tonight because they don’t matter. The entire world heard and saw a star born last night and he has no where to go but up. I for one can’t wait. David, you are a gift to the world.
Here’s a bit of a report from our friend, Dr ODD, who had the good fortune to attend last night’s performance at the Nokia Theater:
-we saw the archuletas afterwards and they were beaming -- brett called me and was insanely happy going crazy
- i can only say that a powerful force moved david and overtook him -- he was projecting from another plane of existence -- he was channeling something last night -- the spirit really moved him and the entire theatre.
I promised myself I would avoid the press today. But I checked out that LA Times article that was mentioned above. I’m sorry I did. Yes, she reaches some decent conclusions but manages to make all the same snide and snarky comments about Archie all over again. I thought it was just an excuse to slam him.
Then I checked out the Washington Post today. That woman there is completely unhinged. Now. she’s floating the “David Cook deliberately through the contest myth” in order to explain Archie’s success. She also persists in calling him “LIttle Elmo.” Disgusting.
That’s it. I’m not reading any more press on this subject. They are too cynical and negative. They don’t get it. They don’t want to get it. They’d prefer their ivory towers where all music is angry and mean and unintelligible. They can have it.
The rest of us will have Archie.
What a ride! The power and purity of David’s performances last night had be crying, leaping from my seat and cheering at the end — and I DO NOT do that, ever (well, except when Canada won Olympic Hockey Gold a few years back!). My usual cynicism (which normally would have caused me to cringe at a song like the 2nd one) vaporized and I loved (and believed) every note, every word. My inner cynic returned however when Simon winked at Cook at the end, as if to say “We’re gushing over Archie now so his fans get overconfident and stop dialing — hang on, we’ve got your back on Wed.” — but I don’t really care who wins AI now — I feel as though we’re all winners after being graced by David’s phenomenal spirit and artistry. No one can take that away from him … or from us.
#23 -- rascal is a treasure and I’m sure many will agree.
After last night, I am even more EXCITED!!….not at the prospect of his winning the title, but at the anticipation of what’s to come.
For some Idols, the AI journey and title is the end goal, but David showed us last night that this is only the beginning of what he is going to show the world. What we saw last night was the culmination of, perhaps a more subtle, but profound growth over the past few months into an undeniably powerful artist in the making.
Yes, “in the making” because whereas many of his competitors are at the peak of their game, David is just getting started and last night was the lavish “commencement” ceremony of his entry into the real world and into his own person as an artist. And what a commencement it was -- complete with all the emotion that comes from understanding the hard work and sheer exhaution that came with the process, the satisfaction of knowing that it has not been wasted, the excitement of celebrating his growth and accomplishments along the way, and being able to show the world, quite visibly, just how much of his heart and soul went into his journey.
And I’ve said this before, but above all, what impresses me most is the integrity and graciousness he has consistently displayed throughout. Given the frustrations he undoubtedly must have felt (he reportedly could not get mulitple songs cleared for the finale and was finally asked to choose a song that was already cleared), he remained unwaivering in his strength of character -- which in the end goes beyond any measure of artistry.
Here’s a great little piece at the LA Times. At the risk of self-promotion, may I point out how the “real rebel” was identified in these pages nearly two weeks ago?
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/showtracker/2008/05/american-idol-d.html
Rascal, when I read that LA times piece I thought of you immediately. Did you put that buzz in the writer’s ear? So nice to see David finally receive a few kudos.
i was always ambivalent about David winning…if it was the best for him or not… but seeing how DAVID WENT FOR THE WIN tonight, he gave it EVERYTHING…now I WANT him to WIN. He did not disappoint in the finale. he DESERVES to win and I hope he does. I can’t wait for his dream to come true.
Also, I’m so tired of David’s rude detractors in the press.
Thank you for doing David and his brilliant singing justice in your blog.
It’s refreshing.
Agree with archu_adorable “it was historic” last night, Imagine a winner was proclaimed by the judges and the American audience before the proclamation night. How amazing is that. David Archuleta showed the world he is to be reckoned as a stellar artistry with humility and purity. I love reading comments here gives me the passion of “DAVIDIAN LOVE”. Thank you Rascal, you rock our Davidian world.
I am posting this commentary just before we get to see the Finale Results show. If the information on http://www.zabasearch.com/ai_stats.php that shows that Cook has defeated Archuleta is true, there is going to be turmoil tonight for a lot of fans.
Most fans believe that if you win a contest, in this case a singing contest, then you are the winner. But popularity has always been a factor in the world of American Idol, and it seems that this contest has become just that. We all know who won last night and as DA’s song “In This Moment” stated, no one can take that away from him; not David Cook and not the producers of the show.
The best of all results would be that since the alleged results show the closest results in Idol history. both Davids would be named winners. This would go a long way to restore the reputation of a show that has been questioned for its authenticity. (I know I am living on the planet of Wishful Thinking.) Admittedly, David Cook is good at what he does, but since I share the same city (for now) with the true winner of American Idol this season, he will always be my Idol. And his music will be the only one of the finalist that I will listen to for a long time to come.
My only hope is that the Zabasearch results are wrong. But if they aren’t, I will console myself that I know who the real winner is and that he will not be shackled to a show that is loosing its credibility.
Rascal, thank you for your voice of reason and getting us prepared for whatever happens. It has been an honor to share your blog space and be allowed to share my thoughts.
David Cook by 12 million votes. So, it turns out it was just a conventional popularity contest afterall. It was just high school.
This is why I don’t watch programs like this and will never again.
But I’m glad it introduced me to David Archuleta. I’ll follow him for as long as he chooses to sing.
And having to endure that banal and awful 2 hour show was more pain than I could endure.
And, sorry, but who was that old-looking man they brought out to sing right before the end?
It’s true, DC won.
While I find it difficult to picture David’s disappointment, there is a part of me that draws hope from the decision. There was a general consensus on this site, that we wanted David to win because he wanted it. But there was also a majority sentiment that the quality of David’s talent and character really are above and beyond AI.
I’m hoping that this results in David having greater autonomy over his career. There will be less pressure for the AI machine to use him to score a public relations win. That pressure will be on DC now. Following Rascal’s “Rebl” thread, I’m hoping it means that there will be less chance that AI will feel the need to focus on how to package David for public consumption. DC already fits a certain mould and is ready to be marketed. (no offense intended to him)
If this means that our boy gets a chance to develop his art and sit at that piano “all day”, it can only be a good thing. For David and for us. The sooner we’ll get to hear those original DA compositions.
I hope I’m not being naïve but it feels as if this loss will grant David some measure of protection from being exploited.
My only real disappointment is imagining what David’s might be. I’m going to remember some of his comments and the spirit in which he said them and I’m going to believe that he’ll be fine. He has his talent, his strength of character, his family and his faith. He’s too grounded to be devastated by this loss.
While I found much of tonight’s program fairly tedious, David was once again luminescent. He simply shone on the “Hero” duet. (he and DC were great together but as usual David’s emotive delivery has the power to move you deeply) His contribution to the later song with the young guy at the piano (sorry don’t know the title) simply made this piece into something far beyond what it is. I’ve said it before: David’s power of interpretation is simply stunning. He is an alchemist; he can turn the mediocre into gold. We’ve all witnessed it. My one disappointment is that we didn’t get to hear a full solo version of “Heaven”. His little piece of that performance was beautiful.
Also, David really seemed at peace tonight. He had that happy vibe on – much less intense. The stress of last night behind him, he seemed to be really enjoying himself. He seemed unrehearsed, falling out of step for some of the dance numbers. But it didn’t faze him, he was smiling and enjoying it all anyway. All night he was his gracious shining self, a true gentleman.
David has a lot to look forward to, He’s about to go on tour with his “buddies”. It’s going to be one of those awesome summer experiences in a young man’s life. I’m really happy for him. What follows remains to be seen, but I feel confident that David will “work it out”.
All my best wishes to our hero, who has given us so much.
Reading all this comments showed how much LOVE David gets from his Angels. My thought, I am sure David will be overwhelmed reading all these comments. It includes the affection and consolation of one another’s heart. How Amazing what David did to all of us. He connected himself first to us, then he linked all our hearts and souls. Isn’t that the true WINNER! Two words AMAZING DAVID! Keep that loving spirit everyone and let the world know David was the cause. Cheers!
“We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love HIM.” Romans 8:28
SMILE
I met him this morning at the Nokia theatre and i have got to tell you he is not any different on tv than he is in person, he is THE MOST appreciative and AMAZING person a very genuine and down to earth kid he let me get pictures and signed 2 things for me. HE actaully had tears in his eyes when i told him how much i paid for those tickets to see him and there was this blind kid there because he is ARCHIES fan and david had tears in his eyes when he asked to hug him it was amazing and David is probably the most WONDERFUL person i have ever met in my entire life and i mean that from the bottom of my heart, He is really truly an ANGEL sent from heaven for us to witness. I cannot believe anybody can be that nice and genuine and apologetic about nothing. He made sure that he stopped an interview to come over and talk to me and sign and get pictures.. Bottom line is he is just WONDERFUL and his parents are just amazing also
When I heard that David and the others were going to be on Larry King last night, I cringed a little. I find Larry’s style brash. Especially in the sense that he rarely gives people a chance to elaborate on their answers. At times he loses patience and it’s off to another unrelated question. I didn’t think David would have an easy time of it. But I was wrong. David handled it all with that serene grace. Inevitably Larry cut him off a couple of times, even rudely switching to ask a question of another guest in the middle of David’s answer. David just kept on smiling, enjoying the time there with his friends.
Someone should advise interviewers including Larry, to stop asking questions that would lead the contestants to make negative comments about the others. Really now, what are they expecting them to say? Would any of the contestants have the heart to criticize one of the less talented in the group? Or is the intention to trip them up into saying something they don’t want to? Probably. Pretty mean spirited, if true.
DomenicA//4Archuleta- thanks so much for your post. It confirms in a wonderful way what we all knew about David.
Last week I started referring to David as our “hero”. Then I dropped the parentheses as I realized, that I meant it without any qualification. RIKA you said in the “He Who Shall not be Denied” thread, that, first he connected to us and then linked us through our hearts and souls. I’ve felt from that first moment back in February, seeing “Imagine” that something else besides a great singer was happening here. There’s a spiritual aspect to David that has emanated out to all of us who have been touched. From all that I’ve read and felt, I definitely feel that we’re part of something much larger. People talk of trying to emulate his positive behaviour. I’ve felt this: I try to be more patient with my kids and with my clients at work. When my thought process is turning negative, I hear David’s comments in my head and I switch gears. This seventeen-year old with a heart- of-gold, is leading us towards becoming better people. And it’s like a wave, that’s catching on. I don’t speak of God easily, but this all somehow feels like God’s plan.
Let me go overboard for a minute: It feels that all that David represents, and all that we’ve been feeling, is out of synch and at odds with the cynical and de-moralized aspects of our society. Our “civilization” needs a good ass-kicking. We need to re-discover the decency and virtue that we’re all capable of. It’s only through love, common decency and mutual respect that we’ll ever be able to enjoy the world as it should be. If we could take the power out of the hands of the greedy and instead of helping the bottom lines of corporations, start to concentrate on helping each other, we’d be on our way to that wonderful world.
Just what level of greatness David is headed for, I don’t know. But if it’s to continue to inspire us with his singing and to spread goodwill with the sheer luminosity of his shining character, he’ll have accomplished his goal many times over. That goodwill can continue to spread having a profound effect on the world. (Wow!)
Sorry to rant but I just had to get it out.