The Archie & Cookie Show in NYC
I find Cook to be a complex character. He appears intelligent and articulate, perhaps a bit arrogant on occasion, smug even, but he also seems genuine and kind. I can’t help but but admire and appreciate the obviously protective role he has adopted with Archie and, in all honesty, I can’t think of a better arrangement or maybe even a better individual for the job. These are both bright, talented, compassionate guys and I should think they have a great deal in common. It’s amusing to think of how they were probably eying each other just a little suspiciously at the beginning, not from a competitive standpoint per sé, but just the way guys do, and that now they have a personal and professional intimacy that no doubt enriches them both immensely.
The most interesting thing, I think, is how this relationship would have differed–perhaps fundamentally–had the place finishes been reversed. Cook has an ego. That’s not a bad thing. But I wonder if his enormous generosity and affection for Archie would have had quite the same tenor if Cook had come in second.
I went on record nearly two weeks ago with my assertion that runner-up would be a far more beneficial status to Archie, but as I’ve watched the post-finale dynamics I realize how limited the scope of my vision was in the matter. I had not anticipated the range of advantages which are now accruing to him precisely because he did not win. The press, for example, now has license to praise him, to like him, even to root for him. Had he proved the inevitability he was anointed to be, the press would have performed their duty to report it and moved on–most likely to Cook. But there’s nothing the press likes more than an upset–unless it’s an underdog. Archie has never been in that choice position before and it is already doing him enormous favors from a public-relations standpoint.
I suppose I could have seen that coming, but what I never would have predicted was how much of an advantage having someone like David Cook was going to be in Archie’s ability to embrace his role as a public figure and handle the media. All of us who have been so fixated on his journey know that Archie is a sponge, a relentless observer and learner (I had to smile when he caught that shaving foam; flaky people whose minds wander can’t do those sorts of things) who needs more than anything to have role models in the dimensions of life where he is not prodigious. For who Archie is, what he needs, and what is best for him personally and professionally, this is not the consolation prize. This is the best of all possible worlds.
ABOUT THIS AUTHOR
It’s bittersweet to have people going out of their way to praise David since his ‘defeat.’ Larry King saying he was ‘fast on his feet,’ Cantiello at MTV calling him ‘a shockingly mature, well-spoken young man.’ -- http://newsroom.mtv.com/2008/05/27/having-survived-idol-jim-can-now-finally-reveal-the-truth-david-archuleta-is-not-who-you-think/
How could they — and a large part of the public — have missed this all along? He’s no different now than he was in February! Well, OK, I think he’s probably a better singer now, but he’s the same person down deep.
As a member of the media establishment myself, I have a theory: For those covering entertainment, the coollness of their opinions and their own perception of the cleverness of their writing trumps any real critical analysis or knowledge of the craft they are critiquing. (I think you probably mentioned this earlier, Rascal, and I’m just reaffirming it.) Basically it’s far more ‘hip’ to attack Archie for singing balllads and for acting all ‘Gosh!’ and side with the supposed rebel David Cook. The riskier route would have been to dig deeper into the artistry that’s on display, to discover the nuances of vocalization that put Archie in a league of his own. But most writers are too full of themselves to do that.
Your’re right, Rascal. One of the side benefits of Archies’ not winning is that now the writers can side with the ‘underdog,’ which always makes a more compelling story in their comic-book style of tabloid journalism. It will help win some new fans for David, for sure, which is fine. But deep down, we know these writers and pundits are still just playing the game, and it’s a game so far below Archie’s gift that it’s hardly worth acknowledging …
Watching the many interviews of David has warmed my heart. His character has touched me so profoundly. His voice reaches down so deep that I find I cannot listen to any one else. I am searching for reasons why this is so and must thank you Rascal for this place where I have found some answers. I belive that David’s gift is something for the whole world to hear.
I too am glad that David’s runner up status is allowing him exactly what he needs right now.
David when you sing, you soar!
I have no doubt in my heart David will continue to win the heart of many, simply because he knows how to share his gift.
I was having such a difficult time accepting that David did not win American Idol, that I almost lost sight of the big picture. Coming in first place doesn’t always make you a winner. David never needed the title to prove what he is capable of. He only needed the television!
Thank you, Rascal, for always saying what we need to hear!
David, keep living “In This Moment”. You deserve it!
And I am praying for David to sustain his strenght and passion of the havoc of the showbiz world. I am one of the million David for life, Thank you David!
Hi Rascal! I’ve been reading your all your work here and I want you to know that these are just AMAZING. You are a great writer (wish I were like you). As Simon would say, “You are spot on!” (almost all the time).
I am one of David’s avid fans. Well, not because he’s cute or anything (not that he’s not ‘coz he really is) but there is something in him (a very wholesome well-being) that just inspires and wows me. He is oozing in goodness. He may have awkward moments but they just adorable (it makes him more real, especially that he is exceptionally good).
As for David Cook turning out to be genuine and wholesome (thru his protective, friendly role to Archie), I think he is so because he’s been with Archie. It’s like when you are with a good person, you become good yourself (not thad David Cook is not good but that good side of you is unleashed). Archie would say that “there is always something to like about someone”. And because David Cook can’t find or don’t see anything bad with Archie (as he is always appreciative an even proud of DC), he is but compelled to care and protect the Archie like a little brother. If someone is obnoxious to you, you become obnoxious as well because that is kind of an automatic response to sort of avenge yourself. You respond this way because you try to correct the person or you simply want to have a final say (or else you would feel defeated). This is exactly how David Cook is (like when Simon said that he had no charisma, he felt that he had to talk back to defend himself). But David Archuleta did not see this fit (i suppose since he merely listens to terrible comments on his performances and tries to smile it off). Others would say that he is so because he is shy and less confident. Yeah maybe so but I think it is more of that he respects the opinion of people (and he is open-minded enough to take it into consideration and does not think highly of himself). He merely wants to do his best (and desires that it be collective). And he surely achieved it when he scored a knockout in the finale.
I am just so proud of David Archuleta and I wish there were more people like him in this World. For the most part in my life, I’ve always placed second (in Academics, in contests, etc.) and I usually felt bitter. I think it’s because I didn’t give it my all (so I used to say “I placed second because I wasn’t able to concentrate and had a lot of other things to do” or that “my competitor had an unfair advantage”. Oh I so ashamed of myself (although there is some degree of truth in it). If only I did my best like David Archuleta did I would have worn a big smile on my face and simply felt grateful for having achieved a lot even in second place. I used to hate being second, now not anymore if it is at BEST. I learned a lot of things in life with just watching this young man perform. He puts so much heart in everything he does and possesses the wisdom of life (the right attitude and demeanor). God gave him the biggest test in life (that is his AI experience) and he did GREAT (he was victorious even at the face of defeat because he remained unspoiled even when he rightfully deserves the crown).
Interview for Good Day New York from Fox
http://www.myfoxny.com/myfox/MyFox/pages/sidebar_video.jsp?contentId=6633852&version=1&locale=EN-US
rascal-your foresight is pretty incredible-when I llok back over the past few weeks it’s as if you had a crystal ball. I actually love the way David’s destiny is playing out. He wouldn’t have been comfortable being the American Idol and now he gets to enjoy many of the benefits of it without all the pressures of it. Simon Fuller told him right after the show, “we got two winners this year”….that’s for sure!
This is a wonderful Cinderalla story…
I mostly agree with Rascal here although I must say that almost all of the press I saw after Archie’s “loss” was still negative and sort of “triumphalist” in that they went overboard in praising the good judgment of the voters for picking Cook. I don’t find that that has much changed.
Cook does have an ego and I’m not sure it’s a healthy one. I am around musicians and singers all the time. You MUST have an ego to survive in that world. But there is ego and there is ego. I find him sometimes very smug and I find that very unattractive in a person. I will admit, frankly, that Cook brings out the cynic in me while Archie brings out the believer and the optimist. Cook has a lot of the qualities that I don’t like (apart from the music I don’t like!) starting with that “affected” look of his which I just cannot get past. It really bugs me.
In some ways, Archie reminds me of my 25 year old friend, Peter, who is sort of a little brother to me. He is very talented in many ways but doesn’t completely realize it. He has an overwhelmingly positive effect on everyone he meets and he doesn’t quite get that either. It overwhelms his at times as we have seen it overwhelm Archie. He is a “man” in ways that Archie isn’t yet and has experienced more but there is also a strong streak of naivete about him which allows him to still see so much of the glass as full and not empty. It’s very attractive and I think that is what many people are seeing in Archie as well.
I have pretty much stayed away from all of the Idol-related stuff since last Wednesday so I have missed most of what is being reported here. I avoid Larry King as I’d prefer to have the bubonic plague that subject myself to his inane questioning.
I would, at some point, like to see Archie on a program by himself with some distance from this experience to see how he is doing and, of course, I eagerly await his first CD.
Onward and upward!
Rascal -- In agreement with you on this one. Cookie does have an ego, but a necessary one, I think. I don’t really like it, but I understand it’s necessity. Of the Idol bunch, Cookie is the probably the best for Archie to observe through this press junket.
I think we all may have been short sighted on the benefits the runner up status gives Archie. So much more freedom in all areas, which allows for so much more potential and Archie potential is huge.
I have to believe that Cookie is absorbing some of Archie’s vibe too. Archie is very generous with everything. Cookie has to pick up on some of that too, right?
This is why Archie will be great, he gets the gift he’s been given and understands how to be generous with it and is learning how he can use it to deeply speak to others. I believe it refreshes his soul to know others are refreshed by his gift. What a love affair: An artist with his music, an artist with his audience and an audience with their artist.
All is as it should be.
I have enjoyed the media’s relaxed stance on Archie, although I think some of it is just a bit of Simoneque ‘covering of one’s tracks’. I think it is Archie himself who probably won Cook over. I watched Star Search years ago, and know that Archie got to know one of the dance winners, an older guy — Jon Cruz. They also developed a lasting friendship. Jon’s family loves Archie. I think he is so special, and the people who recognize this become forever enthralled.
David Cook is a mixed bag for me. Sometimes I like him, sometimes I feel like he’s faking his way through the interviews. Maybe this is just some insecurity coming into play. I don’t know.
I do know that I recognize Cook’s type. I’ve known plenty of guys like him. I feel like I’ve heard his music — or rather, that sometimes when a song comes on the radio I think ‘that could be David Cook.”
I can’t say this about Archie. I’ve never heard anyone like him. I don’t believe I’ve ever met anyone like him: he’s got such a sparkling personality. This bodes well for his future career, in my opinion.
Rascal, what you’ve said rings so true. We’re beginning to see that David will gain so much from this arrangement, in so many ways. DC assuming this role of “big brother” is obviously genuine and gratifying to see.
Charuu, you’ve said it so well! Your honesty really illustrates how David has helped you to see life from a more positive perspective. David just brings out the best in everyone around him, DC included. How could anyone hate on such a genuinely good person?
Observing the interviewers lately, it’s obvious that some are holding themselves back from all out gushing over David. (JD Roberto was noticeably affected by David’s good nature and self-effacing manner)
“We were always in the CBS Studios rehearsing, or, for me, in school or minding my own business,” Archuleta said. “It’s kind of like going through a tunnel. … You’re all by yourself in there, only it’s a one-way mirror and people can see you in the tunnel, and then you come out the other side and everyone’s asking for your autograph.”
I love this Archie quote from a recent interview with both guys.
Hey thatmancansing -- your comment about David and his gift and the reciprocal love affair is succinct,poignant and beautifully put.
Kait, thanks for David’s quote, I haven’t sen that one. David never ceases to impress us.
Dream songs for David to sing: Hands -- Jewel Totally being selfish.
And thanks musicao.
You’re the man, rascal. When you say jump, I jump!
nvm, I think the saying is “when you say jump, I say how high” Sorry, I’m dumb.
Wow, Rascal. You continue to amaze me with your insight. I’ve been thinking the same things but I cannot articulate it like you can. This IS what is best for David. And the media praise is pouring in. I love it. I have goosebumps
Well said as usual Rascal. It is FABULOUS to see David shine so brilliantly post AI and it is truly a blessing. I’m just glad that we as fans don’t always get what we pray for! Someone with more prescience is in charge of David’s career!
Some of you may remember some online interviews that surfaced recently, from a few years back, with David Cook, where he appeared crass, vulgar, even obscene and misogynistic. I cannot say for certain if all of those characteristics have been eliminated, but I agree completely with those of you who have been saying that being around Archie has changed David Cook. His fans know he has that effect on people, why not on David Cook? How wonderful if this were true.
And David Cook is undeniably intelligent -- perhaps one of his most obvious qualities. (I love someone’s comment, who knows where, about the right-brain, left-brain juxtaposition of these finalists). Being a smart guy, I’m sure he knows how much better it makes HIM look to be gracious to David. And I have to think he also knows that perhaps his win wasn’t all due to his talent or performances alone. He has had the honesty to disbelieve the 12 million vote thing on several occasions. And being a smart guy standing on the sidelines Tuesday night and watching David give it his all and more, he must know on some level that there is no way he could sing as David just sang. I forgive him a whole lot for the classy way he included David on finale night.
In the face of David’s prodigious talent, I will never be a fan of Cook’s music. I will, however, be a fan of his big brother love and support for David at this time. And if our David benefits from it, so much the better.
For any of you who can stomach it, there are two parts of a video interview (so far; more, apparently, to come) with that horrible person at EW. I refuse to supply a link to that offensive rag so you’ll have to find it yourselves. Archie comes off beautifully, although it’s a little sickening to watch that despicable person forcing his phony smiles and trying not to be charmed by David, and knowing full well all the cheap insults, gossip, and condemnations he has levied at David throughout the season. Personally, I wouldn’t allow David in the same room with that filth, but I know that David himself, even if he knew the extent to which he was EW’s whipping boy, would find something good to say. He is a better man than I.
archu_adorable -
It is true we don’t get what we always pray for, but in this case, I believe Archie got what he needed.
This conversation about how Archie has changed Cook has driven me to speak a little about my real thoughts on the matter, even though they maybe based in Catholicism/Christianity/Spiritualism. My belief is basically based on darkness and light. The light that shines from Archie is immense and outshines the darkness around you.
I can only give you my experience as an example. Before finding AI this season, I have been very cynical -- even jaded -- about the world around us. I’ll admit that I had fallen in step with the world, losing all but a glimmer of hope that there might be good people in the world who were genuinely good.
Then, Archie sang Heaven ( which is a favorite song of mine ) and got hooked. But I was only watching for the talent until his breakdown when Alexandrea Lushington got voted off. I wondered why he broke down and found an interesting fact in Wikipedia.org that they had competed in Star Search years back, in which he won. Did he actually feel bad because she was leaving? Did he feel bad because he again bested her in a competition, not meaning to do that to her again? It was like a small glimmer of light and hope and made me wonder, “Am I seeing the real thing?”
Over the course of each episode, the light grew larger and larger, until at some point, it overwhelmed the darkness I was in and gave me hope that the world still has good in it. Not only was the guy a very talented singer, but he was an unbelievable example of what Jesus taught; or at least a better example than I have ever run into.
Like I had said in a previous posting, I’m now changed to some degree. I’m no longer cynical or jaded. I catch myself being more patient, less self-centered, laughing more and truly thankful for things. It’s been an amazing process and I can’t thank Archie enough for being and continuing to be Archie.
I think a person like Archie has changed Cook. Imagine how much more he can change Cook, if he has changed me and others just by watching him on TV. If you are honest with yourself -- even a little -- you can feel when something is true or not and I believe we found a genuine person in Archie.
My prayer is that his light shine brightly through the trials and tribulations ahead. The Media/Hollywood have a way of tearing down a person and my hope is that AI has strengthened him for the road ahead. But what gets me is knowing that Archie is a just a reflection of the Light and that the Light that he shines fell on myself and all of us to change us for the better.
Hey Rascal -
Isn’t that person’s name something like Sleeze and then something else?
OOPS -- forgive me.
I watched the EW interview by “he who is unworthy” with David. I loved David’s geniuneness and honesty and the unworthy one’s reactions were priceless. And not being on a higher plane of existence, I reveled in the unworthy one’s reactions.
My favorite is when David talked of rainbows appearing behind him if he sang the winner’s song and chasing them away and that was how he though people thought about him. He who is unworth didn’t know what to do with that.
An absolute treasure. A lion cub flexing his interview muscles and all he had to do was be himself. The unworthy one probably doesn’t get it. David’s goodness made the interview all the more compelling. Oh My Gosh!
A while ago David was asked in an interview how far he thought he would make it on American Idol. His answer, “If I do what I’m supposed to do, I will get as far as I need to.” I believe he was speaking about more than just working hard on his performances, he was also speaking about being a man of character. It is obvious by peoples heartfelt reactions that this young man has done what he was ‘supposed to do.’ He has inspired and uplifted thousands while on this journey just by being who he is, and he got exactly as far as he needed to get on AI. This is just the beginning for him, but I have a feeling that ‘doing what he is supposed to do’ will continue to be a very important part of who he is and what he does in the future.
Thanks, David, for your example.
Will the friendliness David Cook offers David Archuleta last? After months of watching Idol, I’m more cynical than I usually am. Right now, Cook has nothing to gain by not embracing Archuleta, and much to lose if Archuleta’s huge fanbase had another reason to dislike Cook.
So why won’t it last? I cite two things David Cook said during the final Tuesday night performances. When Cook had two opportunities to be generous, or at least kind, to Archuleta, he chose not to. His responses were competitive and ego-centric.
At the beginning Ryan gave them a chance to say something nice to each other. David A. said Cook was just awesome. Then Cook said, paraphrasing, ‘how could he say anything that would be better than that’, as if it were a competition or a one-up-manship. He should have simply said something positive back to David A.
Later, the manipulative Simon Cowell provided Cook a chance to explain why he had chosen to sing a new song, rather than sing his favorite from the show. Knowing that Archuleta would be singing “Imagine” next, Cook said ‘what’s the point of singing something he had already sung’. That tied in nicely with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s comment at the very start that the winner would be the one who takes “risks”.
Of course, singers always sing the same song over and over, so Cook’s statement is silly. And Archuleta was the true risk-taker with the courage to sing a song he had aced and turn it into gold again.
But the public was encouraged by the show’s producers, Simon Cowell, and Cook, to believe something else — an exageration, a ridiculous statement, a lie.
I had to take a look at the EW interview, if just to get my David A fix if nothing else. (It reminded me of a sweet bunny in front of a hungry wolf) David is charming! The interview tied in so nicely with comment #21 above, wherein the light of his personality was shining above the darkness being cast at him by the interviewer. David is so refreshing and his enthusiasim seems renewed each day when he wakes. I have heard David say in many of his interviews that “he hopes we appreciate all the hard work he has done” -- well precious David, we certainly do!!! When you get into a song, you get right into our hearts and souls. David’s values are strongly in place and he will continue to follow the source of his strength -- his heart and his faith. That is one more strike against the cynicism and arrogance in today’s culture. He will continue to win over 1 (or more) hearts at a time. What a precious soul he is! Love you David!!!!!!!!111
Everything done by Simon Fuller/19/Freemantle Media is calculated and purposeful. David Cook, regardless of how we may agree or disagree with it, was the winner, and so the “powers that be” have an obligation to elevate him as far as they can (via media, marketing, etc) right now while the kettle’s still hot. And they should. HOWEVER -- What they will NOT do, is make any decision that will elevate David Archuleta — in other words — they will not release his performance with One Republic because they well know what that could mean: The possibility that they could have a “fallen” idol on their hands should “Apologize” beat the billlboard records that Cook is enjoying right now (and my hat’s off to him -- honestly).
One Republic could hardly oppose the release of the live performance as a single, as they have (1) already worked with other artists on this song (Timbaland, etc) and (2) are on a tour -- meaning all exposure would be welcome. The delay in releasing their performance with Archuleta is clearly a strategic one by A.I.
So what can YOU do, you ask?
CALL YOUR RADIO LOCAL RADIO STATIONS AND REQUEST “ONE REPUBLIC’S APOLGIZE, FEATURING DAVID ARCHULETA”.
What more satisfying way would there be to tell A.I. where the true talent lies by beating them at their own game? (I mean no disrespect to David Cook -- I appreciate his talents as well)
Woah, thatmancansing #10, I am reading your last few sentences over and over again….
“What a love affair. An artist with his music, an artist with his audence. An audience with their artist. All is that it should be.”
What David did to me with his singing is way above and beyond what that “…..” show that is American Idol stands for. It blows my mind that David is only ….what? 17? Really?
Rascal #20, Robbie Williams’ song “Better Man” instantly came to my mind. Sorry, random thought. Dont we all want to shield David from the dirt but we trust David as a person with such strength and integrity that he blows the dirt off the window. Then we have clear vision. LOL I am rambling…
bigsky….I am in agreement with all that you’ve said. We need that APOLOGISE duet release, better still, DJ & OR do a studio recording. That’ll be WOW.
AI edits everything to serve their higher purpose. AI controls song choices. AI brings up one contestant, plays down others bt AI also can drop that contestant and plays up a new “front-runner” -- as with the case with DA & DC.
But what irks me to no end was how they did this on rotation during the 4 weeks running up to the Finals -- praised DA this week then DC next week and so it was DA’s turn on the Finals (rightfully so, his performances in a league above DC, sorry). They elevated DA to the point where everyone thought DA had the title in the bag and DC was mad eout to be the underdog. And so it goes, DC won and every media headlines screamed “SHOCKER WIN”….I was going hello? TPTB all along wanted DC to win -- conspiracy theories abound point to that.
Anyway, DA being the runner-up is all good. No one takes my attention and time the way DA does.
I watched the EW interview before I came over here and was going to ask Rascal if he’d seen it!!! I knew it would be a topic!!! What a simpering sleazebag excuse for a human being. I just wanted to reach through my screen and slap or choke the *******!! How can he stand there, pretending to be unbiased? Acting as though all he did was love on David all season? ! Is there an email I can go to to let him know that he doesn’t have anybody fooled, and that he doesn’t deserve to be in the same building as our David? AAARGHHH!!!
David, as we would expect, handled the entire thing beautifully. Generous, warm , humble, humorous….fun! All the qualities David possesses in spades are so glaringly absent in Slezak…I don’t think one could ask for a more stark comparison! I actually emailed several reporters and took them to test on their treatment of David in their posts. Sleazy doesn’t have an email listed. Rats!
I’d hate to pass judgement on Cookie. I’ve never met him. David seems to think very highly of him, though. One thing I will say, is that Cookie definitely seemed to be after the win more than anyone else all year, which is contradictory to his repeated statements that it wasn’t a competition….Who knows. One thing I appreciated reading was Cookie saying that David really out performed him on Finale night. Simon had it right. (Actually, I think Syesha might have wanted to win as much as Cookie).
I was so happy that Randy proclaimed David the seasons best singer. After Paula’s repeated standing ovations for Cook all season, and
Simon openly saying he liked Cook more, Randy really stuck w/David. If it really were just a singing competition, David would have won going away!! I know Randy really knows this, and I hope David really heard him that night. He was absolutely…well, I get chills just thinking about it!!
So much for the press. I’ll take my facts from people who know what they’re talking about. Thanks Rascal!!
jayemdaet: “And the light shineth in darkness and the darkness comprehendeth it not.” Describing David and the Slezaks of the world.
Would you like to revel more in the beauty of David James Archuleta’s artistry? This is his performance of Angels at Morgan Stanley Children’s hospital, maybe after the Regis & Kelly Live show. This performance is very special and he was so into it -- better than he did at R&K.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDF87ludoLY
WOW kccy that was awesome.. I totally cried.. It is just so good.. It’s like witnessing all your pain vanish away in utter beauty that i can’t help but cry in awe.. My God he is the ultimate MOVER. It was just random so I was expecting to just say great vocal and because I’m am fan i’d love it. But man it so much better.. I think it was better than how he did it on AI. He has mastered the ART of CONNECTION. I don’t usually cry in broad daylight. Ahhh.. Sorry for blabbing.. But really thanks for sharing. Just WOW!
Once again overwhelmed by this exceptional young man. How many of us come close to accomplishing in a week, month, year what DJ has done in a day? Rascal, help me out here. How is it he can conquer a critic, bring out the best in a competitor, and deliver one of the most heartfelt performances of a “new” classic we’ve ever heard? in a few short hours?
I find myself in awe of the artist, of the man. What a joy to sit back and take note of the changes in others, the changes in myself. His positive energy is contagious.
charuu, I know. Totally in agreement. Too heartfelt it hurts. David sang to reach out to the children at the hospital -- he wanted to pour hope and joy into that song for those who may be suffering at the moment. Although we dont see the audience, you can see them from his face.
Thanks so much kccy, for posting that video. I had watched him on R&K and thought he was wonderful. This was amazing! He is just pure GOLD! My gosh, can I love him any more than I do now?
LOL , forgot to re-post these quotes from thatmancansing in my latest post, just to prove the point….
“What a love affair. An artist with his music, an artist with his audience and an audience with their artist. And it is all that should be.”
Here is the three part Entertainment Weekly interview that David did with Michael Sleazak. I have every single interview I have ever been able to ferret out, and I can tell you, I have NEVER, ever seen David so relaxed, talkative, and glib! It’s amazing, like he’s five years older or something.
My guess is that having the pressure of the competition over is very freeing for David. Almost like a different guy or different version, at any rate. He’s VERY impressive in this interview. WOW!!
Also, I’m thinking being thrown in on the deep end of the pool may have been just what the doctor ordered for a painfully shy but BRAVE, determined soul like David. He is really stepping up his game when it comes to public relations and comes across as a natural. It’s obvious where the straight A student comes from, what a genuinely deep thinker David is. We intuited his great big heart and soul. Now, his strong mind and will are being revealed.
Entertainment Weekly Part 1
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Kbr-TfpCfL8
Entertainment Weekly Part 2
http://youtube.com/watch?v=ob7m-d0GjLo
Entertainment weekly part 3
http://youtube.com/watch?v=7WfO7X_EjXc
When Simon went on Ellen the day of the finale and bashed David for having no personality or charisma, when he went on Leno and Ellen and pumped Cook, I’m betting the farm he had NO IDEA who and what he was passing up in David. He may be pretty happy with Cook, but after interviews like this and great performances here and there, I’ll bet he’s getting some niggling thoughts that he may just have let Elvis or Elton John slip through his fingers. Serves him right.
Big, fat raspberry to you Simon! You deserve to eat dirt for the way you treated this wonderful, talented young prodigy. I hope David turns out to be (as I would expect) one of the biggest record sellers of all time.
Simon can ‘eat it’ for all I care. That would be his just desserts. Hey, yeah!! I’d pay to see it.
Ha. I love how David inadvertently called out he-who-shall-not-be-named on one of his many hypocrisies in the question about missing lyrics during ALW week. David emphasizes that it’s not always the point to be technically perfect, that it’s about the feeling of the song and connecting emotionally. So, exactly how is it, one wonders, that a “robot” isn’t technically perfect in the first place, hmm? The only way David could ever slam anyone is if he doesn’t know he’s doing it.
Rascal, can you comment on David’s lack of understanding in regards to his “imagine” performance? Is it possible, like Michaelangelo, that he is a vessel and the artistry comes through him? Just what are we witnessing?
David is such a swirling force of energy. At any time he can toss out a quote, a performance, a gesture that leaves us both moved and bewildered.
I myself don’t take the negative comments of Sleazak and Simon seriously. They are both out to sell something and are nothing more than…..well in the spirit of David, if I don’t have something nice to say, I won’t say it at all. From now on I’m choosing to concentrate on the positive, sites like this and the posters you attract are all I need.
What an example our Archie is and has become to others like Cook. I really have to give praise to his parents. And yes, especially to Jeff Archuleta. I know many have read the bad press, but just know, it’s not true! Jeff and Lupe are both wonderful loving parents and have a huge responsibilty as the prodigy’s parents. David is who he is because of their wonderful upbringing and loving caring home they have given him. Now, David can do what he loves best, sing and share his music with all of us, and of course, be a great role model for so many!
In ref. to #38 & the 3 part video interview with Michael Sleeeezy.
I’m concerned that David may have inadvertantly revealed a little “insider AI info” when he said that the producers would not let him sing “Longer Than” his way -- with him playing the piano, that they wanted him to “keep it simple”.
WAAAAAAAAAAIT one minute. Now, didn’t they ban Jeff Archuleta from arrangement sessions so that David could be FREE to do what he wanted to do???
Who is stifling WHO???
This statement ALONE now confirms that Idol is a carefullly crafted, manipulated, game show, with an intentional winner.
I truly hope that David does not get punished for letting this little tidbit of info out.
\
What an awesome set of responses, so many appropriate analogies, so much emotion. Cool.
Cheers to everyone!
David, the grounded and mature gentleman confronts the lecherous “journalist”.
You have to wonder how the Sleazoid lives with himself. Anyone with a conscience would have a breakdown and throw themselves at David’s feet, begging forgiveness after confronting their own hypocrisy on such a huge scale. But no, he even plays buddy-buddy. Watch and listen, the rottenness within, comes out in the tone of voice and plays across his face.
David is generous and gracious even to the unworthy.
“Love is the light scaring darkness away”
#42 bigsky
I actually David explained that matter in the least threatening manner possible. And most importantly, he doesn’t seem bitter about it. So dont worry
#42 bigsky
Cook, too, in an interview this week, discussed his song clearances and how, for the most part, everything he asked for was cleared--so it doesn’t appear to be against AI rules to discuss song clearances.
David’s appearance today on the Mike and Juliet show was so heart warming. I especially loved Juliet’s interactions with him. She embraced his age and encouraged him to feel good about acting 17. The adult ladies (notice not tweens nor grandmas) in the audience were dizzy, screaming fangirls and cried during his performance of “Angels.”
OK, so now I will support Juliet throughout her career--she hugged David at the end of his performance and told him he was number one with her--oh my gosh!
To bigsky: I agree. I love at the end when Juliet says, “You were number one in my heart.” Now that’s the kind of media coverage I want to see for David Archuleta. Go Juliet!
Rascal, you were so right so long ago in your “Rebel” post. While I agreed with you at the time (always do!) here is more to support your position.
DC is often asked (why bother?) what type of album he’ll release and we always get a non surprising “Rock” response. Pose the question to DJ and check out the answer.
In his song selections we knew his influences were vast and broad, “You’re the Voice” , “When You Believe”, Eva Cassidy. It’s a testament to his character and artistry that he was still able to excel in the AI arena with all the restrictions regarding clearance and arrangements. How frustrating it must have been for him to be continually type cast as a “ballad” singer. I hope he gets the freedom to make the album he desires. That’s my wish for him.
Wow! David in the middle of Manhattan singing “Think of Me” for a huge, appreciative crowd. (on Today) At the end, I got the feeling that he was wowed by the sheer enormity of that moment and what it means.
He has shone on every talk show this week. His performance of “Angels” on Juliet and Mike was stunning! (not as moving as the hospital performance for obvious reasons but every bit as beautiful) All the hosts are clearly affected by David, and it looks likes he’s having a great time. If this was an ordinary performer, you’d think that some of that annoying celebrity, self-absorption might have crept in. But no, it’s only given David the confidence to relax and enjoy the experience.
This week has given us ODD’s a false sense of continuance. It’s actually been more enjoyable than during the AI show as we’ve gotten to know David on a deeper level. The fun factor has gone way up while all the tension of the competition has gone away. (Although bigsky’s announcement that David’s itunes are MIA, is disturbing. It raises the spectre of continued AI/19 meddling) But it’s like we’re having a field day: we’re getting this constant flow of David’s shining personality emanating out to the world while enjoying a load of new performances aaand still getting to to review all the AI material. (while the clock was telling me to go to bed last night I was reviewing every performance to date. ODD wins I guess)
Unless something unexpected is on the horizon that keeps David in the limelight, I fear we’re headed for a big crash next week. We’re all in for a bad case of the DDT’s.
PS Saw Michael Johns and Carly Smithson do U2’s “One” live in New York. Awesome performance! They played it Bono/Mary J Blige style – beautiful!
no one will prob see this cuz there are new posts but i still felt like i needed to say something!
I LOVE YOU GUYS! haha.
i am studying abroad in Korea right now and barely ANYONE knows American Idol and David Archuleta.
It’s so frustrating that I cannot share my love for David with others…(I’m trying to get my cousin to watch his videos but she cant understand the words…) and i read all your amazing comments and feel so much better!
thank you Rascal for always articulating the heart of an Archie fan in such a beautiful and insightful manner.
can David really be for real? what are his flaws? i’m really curious because i can’t believe how great he is…
I hope all this media attention doesn’t change who he is….
and OH I CANNOT BELIEVE THAT SLEEZY GUY HAS the NERVE to interview Archie and pretend he hasn’t been disrespectfully BASHING David all season. altho David is AMAZING and he just proved Sleezy wrong
Good point Seoul. I was wondering the same thing about Sleezy…he trashes on Archie all season, and has the audacity to sit across from him in an interview and pretend to be friends with him. Interesting. I guess everybody wants a piece of the pie when you realize how good it is!
No one will prob see this…haha! i thought the same thing too seoul! I like to thank rascal for this wonderful WONDERFUL blog on David Archuleta. But I’m still not sold on DC’s personality for I wonder if it is for real or only temporary! I haven’t seen this infamous EW interview and i will in a mo. and to quote seoul “I LOVE you guys LOL”. How true.
I agree with scriptype (#25) and hanariffin (#51) that David Cook’s friendliness to David A. at times seems insincere. I believe Cook now knows he can’t again afford to be, as he was in the final performance show (see scriptype #25), wrongfooted by David A’s graciousness. Like ariadne1880 (#9), I find Cook to have a type of “ego” that is very unattractive. Of the top guys, Cook, in his comments about David, had long seemed to me to be the most insecure and the most threatened by the prospect of being “beaten” by “the kid”.
In contrast, after wondering in the initial stages of the competition about how the oldest (29) competitor, Michael Johns, would react to competing with a 17-year old (on Johns’ Wikipedia page, it’s documented that he has been struggling for years to work as a musician), I was amazed at his generosity in interviews about David after what must have been for Michael a heartbreakingly early exit from the competition.
For example, in a Fox 13 (Utah) interview after David’s three performances on 5/20, when asked to comment about David, Michael Johns replied, “Are you kidding? Seventeen years, doing what he just did? I don’t care if you’re 50 years old… what a talent that kid is, isn’t he? Be very proud, Utah.”
The admiration which seemed to show in Michael Johns’ voice and on his face when he answered that question made me happy that he’ll be on tour with David… a far more generous mentor (I believe) than David Cook.
The other day, David Cook showed his tattoo over his heart that said “Heartthrob”. This just proves his ego and why he does this. It’s all about him not about anyone else. I also read that his family is saying it’s bittersweet (on his win) because the press is following his every move. Well, be carefully what you wish for. I’m glad that David A. didn’t win the title. The title has nothing to do with his mission to touch people with his voice. He has always said it was never about winning. It’s about touching people and changing peoples lives. This is what Archie is all about and we should be so proud!!!