Follow The Money
Now that it appears likely that 19E / Jive have put David into Tier One of their marketing machine, it begs the question as to the ultimate value of this support. The nature of the situation may at first seem like a no-brainer: What could possibly be undesirable about big-budget, A-list positioning for David? There are, of course, pros and cons to everything, and nothing is purely good or bad. Recent blog and board postings have already explored the process that is likely to unfold here:
This is being set up almost identically to Jordin’s “Tattoo” release last year. This is how Jive operates and if they are going for the Friday Z100 in-studio premiere, there will be a lot of payola behind this song, so it should receive substantial airplay (good or bad, requests or not).
This is how it works: Z100 will premiere it on Friday morning and play it several times over the weekend. They will officially add it on Monday. Other major markets who play monkey see, monkey do with Z100 will start playing it and add it over the month of August. Then, on the official impact date of Sept. 2, the song will be released to itunes and the overall radio push will commence in order to get a respectable to good Hot 100 debut. After the AI tour, the big payola will start with lots of in-studio radio promotions in major markets and contests like “Win breakfast with David Archuleta” or something like that. This will continue for about 2 months to keep the single moving up the charts. It will conclude with the album promotion and release (so, November 4 seems just about right).
This is an entirely different ball game from a runner up single that gets thrown out there with no radio promotion to temporarily appease fans.
– from MJ’s American Idol blog
First of all, let’s remember that this is an indication of the belief that David can sell records, not necessarily in the belief that David is an artist of the magnitude we know him to be (their belief or not in this is essentially immaterial for their purposes). So, what, you may ask, is the possible downside?
The possible downside is that David’s legitimacy in the market, among the general public and, most importantly, in the wider music industry may be compromised by the fact that his initial chart successes might be based not on genuine public interest but on relentless promotion. The quality of the material will have a lot to do with whether critics, industry people, and influential cultural observers assign credit to David or to the money behind him. In other words, whether or not the hype is deserved.
The organizational entities involved here represent the slickest, most manufactured side of the music industry. Although many fine artists fall into this category simply because this how the industry works at this level, many “true” artists who are not the beneficiaries of such support (whether by fate or by choice) are openly contemptuous and perhaps privately envious of the process. It is a great deal of money, after all.
But the problem is one of transition, if and when David may decide to pursue it, to more interesting, less mainstream forms and directions. When an artist’s career begins at a commercial peak, it becomes extremely difficult to ignore the pressures and expectations that accompany subsequent efforts.
If David wasn’t such a unique and special talent, I might have no reservations whatsoever. Huzzah! Best thing that could happen! But as we all know, David is a wellspring of untapped potential. There are depths of soul-stirring sensitivity and power that few artists possess. It has always been terribly gratifying to see how many musicians have responded to David, it is just one indication of just how substantial his gifts are.
Given his integrity and his apparent lack of interest in anything so crass as purely commercial success, it does seem more likely than not that David will be able to eschew the interests of the industry and pursue his passions when the time is right… even if I do feel just a little wistful for the lost opportunity for him to develop in a slightly more independent fashion.
I remind myself of my own mantra: Trust the Archulator.
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Am I first here? Okay, Rascal, I totally get your reservations, as I too see the untapped wellspring of artistry that record labels like Jive (and for that matter, 19E and American Idol) often overlook. As a matter of fact, it is my belief that the reason why the music industry is presently in a downward spiral has everything to do with their inability to tap into real artistry of current musicians as well as their pathetic lack of vision that prevents them from knowing how to stay ahead of the curve in terms of digital technology. (I mean, if the porn industry can benefit, and not lose out, to new technology, then the music industry has no excuse in terms of profitting off of new media).
There’s a reason why we haven’t had another Elvis or Beatles or even another Michael Jackson in decades! We’re all very concerned about David’s career because we here recognize that he has that potential to be a great artist on that level – both pop wise and musically speaking – and yet here is David Archuleta working within the crass boundaries of shows like AI and record labels like Jive.
Somehow, though, unlike you, I’m elated that David will be receiving this mass-marketing treatment from Jive PRECISELY because I’d rather he get overexposed than UNDEREXPOSED, which is a terrible fate that has befallen too many past AI runner-ups (Diane, Bo, Katherine, Blake, etc.). Then there are other great contestants like Melinda Doolittle, who wasn’t picked up by a major label, and where is she today? Need I say more?
It’s the belly of the beast – the machine claims another victim (or churns out another star) – and I’m learning to “Trust the Archuleta” that he can remain true to himself and offer us a glimpse of greatness, and provide a light at the end of the tunnel.
I’d rather he debut successfully and then work on his artistic album (which will probably be album #3 – I have the patience that, when he’s in his 20s and has to be taken seriously as more than a teen heart throb, he will be).
I always enjoy reading your posts! I understand where you’re coming from regarding the launch of David’s career. Sometimes I feel that TPTB are vultures looking at him like he’s some kind of cash carcass. haha. I take heart in knowing that David doesn’t seem to care about the money, as he’ll probably tithe most of it to his church anyway(or save it as he’s said). I also know what I’ve observed in Idol’s history so far: There are no second acts for Idol flops. There has been no one who’s underperformed who hasn’t been promptly written off,never to be taken seriously again. I would hate for that to happen to David, which is why I care that he’s a huge financial success with his first album,even if its partly because of a huge push from his label. There was alot of payola behind “Tattoo” and some critics said that was why the song was a hit. Now I don’t know about you but I don’t buy any song I don’t like,no matter how much its pushed me. The good news about “Crush” is that Z100 is apparently getting deluged with requests already, with no help from JIVE. So the interest IS there. As far as the general public goes, well they DO need to HEAR the song to see if they like it, so that is what a label push does: gets the song heard.
As a fan, I know what to expect from this first cd. It’ll probably won’t be the most focused collection. How can anyone work in these rushed conditions anyway! haha. But his being known as an artist who can sell records will be important going into his second album, where he can expand and experiment more. I wish it was like the old days where labels really stood by artists for at least a few albums and allowed the artist time to develop and their audience to grow organically.
Articulate and well written article, as usual, Rascal. Great response hello gorgeous.
I agree, Trust the Archulator!
There have been several comments, made by Jeff and Dean stating that David never wanted to discuss strategy or play the AI game. He chose songs that he felt he could connect with in order to best reach his audience. I also believe that David himself has said that he entered AI “for the exposure” it will provide him and “open doors” not previously open to him. So, even at this young age, and on one of the biggest reality shows on TV, David has made his own choices.
With regards to his album, he has indicated on interviews that it “will be a pop album” but with some more meaningful songs. Again, he is imposing his own choices based on the direction he wants to go in. I believe he is compromising with 19E/Jive to get the album out, get the exposure…
David seems to have a great desire to explore many different aspects (probably the incorrect word to use) of music. The conviction he seems to have about this seems very strong, and, as his confidence continues to grow, I believe he will be unstoppable!
In support:
Responding to a question posed to the MCL on Fanblast’s Live Chat with her Tuesday night; 9:57 [Comment From ♥♥mccrack <----D rated] Who would you like to hear David sing a duet with:
MCL responded: 9:57 Masterclass Lady – A duet? Hmmmmmmmm good question
9:58 Mastercalss Lady – Well, if Eva Cassidy was alive, she would be perfect!
9:59 Masterclass Lady – I’m stumped – only because he has such an amazing talent. Who could stand with David Archuleta? Not and easy decision.
David stands alone doesn’t he?
As for E19/Jive, it may become very quickly apparent to them that they will need to do much less promoting than they are seemingly prepared to.
Thanks for the opportunity to comment.
If anyone can meld the seemingly contrasting worlds of commercial and artistic success it will be David Archuleta. His ability to stay true to himself is one of his most admirable characteristics, and I have to believe this is what will guide him throughout his career. He continues to pave the way, write his own chapter in the books. It’s difficult not to look sideways at others who have gone before him, it’s all we know, but ust look at his song choices for the tour. Does it get better that that? Like you rascal, when it doubt,Trust the Archuletor.
Love those shiny shoes! As AI tries to underplay David? by dressing him in a shiny suit and then the Harry Potter outfit, thank goodness he has lost the sweater, with the shiny shoes I am only too thankful that David’s humble presence and outstanding talent rises above this!
dang it! typos! ust~just
I whole heartedly Trust the Archulator, it’s his record company I’m not to sure about! I am comforted by the fact there have been reports that David has more creative control than most first timers, so that encouraging! If he can make me like a Josh Groban song, well I guess I shouldn’t be too nervous!
#5 I agree, he outshines the crazy clothes they have him wearing, I really don’t even see them anymore!I
We all have invested so much of ourselves into our sweet David, that it is hard to watch as he takes that next step. I’m going to try to Trust the Archuletor!
Posted by Kim K on FB just a few minutes ago-
I was listening to z100 this morning and Elvis said he could not believe the amount of emails and phone calls they’ve received since announcing yesterday morning that David will be on. I cannot wait until Friday…I will be in HEAVEN! AAAHHHHHH!!!!!
And btw, the z100 studio is IN NYC, not NJ as someone previously mentioned. They used to be in the Empire State Building, but since moved to a different building downtown, I believe.
I love reading little tidbits like this – it confirms what I already know – our boy wonder is about to hit NYC airwaves!!!!
Rascal, great topic. Somehow I feel that David transcends all who have come before him, such a profound talent that he will overcome all outside pressures and will call his own shots. People are crying out for David Archuleta, we NEED him, more than he needs both us, and the powers that be in the music industry. This might be naive or wishful thinking but it is how I feel. I have complete Trust in the Archulator.
Rob #2, you hit the nail on the head! It’s exactly the track record of Idol history that I’m going on. Because of the commercial focus of both AI and record labels, the bottom line has become the point, and unfortunately for Idol alumni, they do only get one chance (which is to premiere at the top) or it’s curtains for them.
For crying out loud, now that artists like Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, and Jennifer Hudson (an OSCAR her first movie out!!) have raised the bar insanely high, anything less is considered underperforming. For instance, there’s nothing that’s really a “flop” about either Blake selling a couple hundred thousand albums or Jordin Sparks not reaching platinum sales, but they’re being made to feel as if they have “failed” somehow, which is absolutely ludicrous for first-timers.
But that’s the problem with the current state of the entertainment industry. Let’s face it: the insane pressure that comes from appearing on Idol has so much to do with the music industry’s resentment (YES, RESENTMENT, don’t overlook this) of the show and its current domination in both TV and music. Very early in its debut, many were expecting AI to be a short-lived phenomenon, and it just kept on spitting out pop star after pop star. No sooner was it dominating TV ratings than it was getting its hands on every musical genre (pop with Kelly, R&B with Ruben and Fantasia, country with Carrie, rock with Daughtry).
Other music artists and labels took advantage of AI domination by appearing on the show, providing mentors, etc., but you could still feel an undercurrent of resentment towards this “schoolyard bully” (a label the New York Times used to describe the AI machine). This is why many HAVE to take the show and the artists it creates seriously and why many are also looking for the latest cracks showing weaknesses in its continued domination (why those contestants who don’t debut successfully are duly written off and why the media continually goes on and on about its slipping ratings – and trust me, when I tell you that everytime, ratings drops are mentioned, I have friends who rejoice that AI “is no longer relevant,” especially friends of mine who are independent musicians who LOATHE American Idol and everything it stands for).
Because of this, the pressure is on David Archuleta to debut successfully with a best-selling album. There is no other way for him to be taken seriously. That he is 17 and gorgeous-looking just means that he will be taken less seriously because of the belief that pop stardom is based on such superficialities as looks and youth.
I’d rather David ride the wave of commercial success so as to launch himself in the right position when he’s ready to embark in a more artistic and meaningful career. Now that he has the label of American Idol on him (and perhaps it’s for the best that he didn’t win), this is the best position he will need to be in.
Then again, when we consider that AI engineered for a David Cook win just goes to show that, even with their domination in the entertainment industry, they are still looking for the kind of “edgy” independent-artist credibility that a Cook win gives them (in a way that David Archuleta doesn’t give them this credibility).
Shortsighted on their part, is what I say, since an Archuleta win would have given them a different kind of credibility, but at the end of the day, the underestimation of David’s talent is what will finally blow us all away when he finally *peaks.*
As everyone else has been saying: Trust the Archulator!
Hi long time lurker here. I first want to thank rascal for this blog I was so excited to see you come back. Thanks!!! As for this discussion I agree with hello gorgeous in the fact that I am glad that they are putting the effort and money out for David. I believe that his first album needs to be a hugh success. And then he will be able to give us more of what we are looking for from him. But I also believe that David is so aware of who he is and what he wants from his music that even this first album will be a suprise for us. So as rascal quoted awhile back
“Trust the Archulator” I do I do I do.
On some pro-Cook forums, certain fans are expressing how “troubled” they are with David’s upcoming Z100 appearance and the debut of his single. Obviously, the AI competition is still on for some.
While Cook fans may question what’s the point of winning AI if the runner-up “gets the same treatment” (heh, they’re being rather narrow-minded, are they not?), I for one am grateful that Jive is very much following the bottom line in their determination to have David be a commercial success.
Now, had David signed with RCA, Cook fans would have no need to worry. He would’ve been backburned and expected to “wait his turn” as Cook is given the winner status in terms of promotions, sales, etc.
I think that David, his Dad, Dean and a few others are all well aware of how important it is right now to cooperate with AI and the sharks in that industry. You want to “make it” and do something that means more to you than anything else in this world? Then you had better learn to play the game.
I’m really not worried about David or his career. He’s too real, too gifted, too profound a presence to ignore or cast aside. Those industry people aren’t stupid. In time they will learn to play the game with him on his terms, not theirs.
I also have my own thoughts about David and his career. I have said it before that his first album needs to be great and successful in order for the “haters” and the media to take him serious as a true genuine artist. I do worry about how good the songs will be (not because of David) because of Jive trying to rush the album. I do “trust the Archulater” but it’s the record label I don’t. I have seen enough out of David to know that he is something special, and if given time to choose the correct songs, writing, arranging, and just honing in on his talent…he would make an incredible album. I am hoping and praying that his first album will exceed everyones expectations, including Jive. What I am really interested in even more so is his second album…when he has had time to relax, write songs, and really show his fans who he is and what he is about without being rushed, how he can reallly make us believe and feel what he is telling us through his music. It takes time to make a good album and I do think that is part of the problem…why there have been no more Elvis’s or Beatles. Record labels are rushing artists through like it a meat processing plant or something LOL. They are not allowed to be as creative or sing what they want. A lot of artists now try to be like each other, instead of being themselves and being different…such as singing same type of music and dressing the same for fear they will not be accepted. I think we have only saw glimpses of how unique and special David is. He is a type of artist we have all been longing to see and hear for years. The best is yet to come!
Oriscus8 – If Jive wanted to really make the money off of David they would get smart and play his game instead of making David play their game!! They have a gold mine in David if only they would wise up and let him take charge and follow his lead ha ha. All they need to do is the promoting…like the videos and playing songs on the radio.
I think David’s voice will conquer the ravages of over-promotion. It’s one thing to over-promote the average singer; its another to over-promote something that the world should know about.
“Hello Gorgeous”(love your name by the way)…I don’t understand the Cook fans’ ire. It used to be that Idol would release official singles for the winner AND runner up. Carrie and Bo both had official cd-singles right when Idol ended, in stores. So did Taylor and Kat. Archie didn’t get that. He did have songs on ITunes, but nothing official and they were all removed from ITunes within a week,while Cook’s single has stayed,obviously. Cook fans are ridiculous to pitch a fit. They’re guy has received the royal treatment,has a hit single and will be huge. Why act like there’s not enough to go around? There’s enough success for Archie to have a slice.
Rob,
Thanks for the perspective. There’s enough love to go around!
Imagine I feel like alot of DA fans. Privliledged to enjoy his wonderful voice. Although his success on his upcoming single seems vital to the success of his career with 19E/Jive records does it REALLY matter to David? If he follows the path he has taken so far, singing meaningful songs & just loves the opportunity to sing for his fans. What else is there? The money is not the motivator. Nor is the popularity. Both seem to leave him amazed of the possibilities. I just feel blessed that he was given to us to sing. Such an unbelievable rare talent that comes along once in a lifetime.
To Rascal and the rest of us who have posted (and will post): It is hard to believe we are so equally excited and worried about a teenager’s future musical career–and we don’t even know him! What kind of hold does David have on all of us? (not that we mind). While there is no easy explanation I do believe that our “connection” with him and his music is the reason he was on Idol as long as he was, that he was never in the bottom 3, that viewers tuned in every week just to watch him (including people that had never watched Idol before) and were devastated when he lost–it was as though what happened to him also happened to us. He was a winner from the beginning and I believe that everyone who watched the show (and TPTB) knew it. David’s talent was such that all he needed was exposure to get noticed, he did not need to win and never did. He didn’t even need to stay on till the end, practically all that he had to do was sing one song–a song that he connected with (“Imagine” is a good example) and that would have been enough. He could have walked away after “Imagine” and still be signed to a recording contract. How many AI contestants can you say that about? Even though David did not win Idol, there was no way that 19E/Jive would let him go. TPTB may be selfish, dishonest and greedy but they aren’t stupid! I am not worried about David as an artist but I am worried about any label that signs him, particularly under 19E. Unfortunately, he doesn’t have a choice about that unless he either sues to get out of his contract or wait till it expires. And usually the rule of the Idol game is you have to strike while the iron is hot or the public loses interest in you. That means trying to record a CD while touring all summer. How can an artist record a quality CD with that schedule? I agree with #2 Rob that the conditions aren’t ideal.
There’s really nothing we can do except wait, worry and support David. I’ve read that he’s getting a lot more creative control on his debut CD than most artists and David knows what he wants. But Jive knows what they want too–perhaps in the vein of “we know what’s best for David.” Hopefully they will reach an agreeable compromise that is beneficial to Jive, David and his fans. I’m hoping David records some catchy tunes but also songs with positive messages. I know that those types of songs are important to David.
I don’t understand the business aspect of the music industry–or any business for that matter–but we all recognize the fact that the name of the game in the music industry is MONEY–as much of it as can be made, as soon as it can be made and I am willing to bet that most record labels don’t even care HOW it’s made as long as it comes rolling in. Do 19E/Jive understand what kind of talent they have in David Archuleta? If they really want to make a bunch of money off him (sorry to sound so shallow) then it would be in their best interest to let David do what he knows is best for him in terms of what he sings, how he sings it, how he wants things done, etc. But I don’t think that’s going to happen on this CD, at least not to the extent David (or his fans) might want it. From what we know about David, however, he would not want to release a CD unless he feels that he has given it his best under the circumstances. I’m not really worried about what the music critics might say, they seem to be more interested in being smart-alecky and clever than in being objective. Besides, Elvis was constantly blasted by the critics–especially in the late 1950s–but Elvis’s talent was so huge and his appeal so enormous that it didn’t matter, nothing could stop him. His fans propelled him to the top of the music world and kept him there. David Archuleta seems to be following–albeit unwittingly–the same path. If American Idol had existed in 1956 and Elvis had auditioned and gotten on the show, he might have won. Perhaps not. Either way, he would have had the necessary exposure to launch a successsful career. The youth of American just loved him. He was so different, so unique, no one had seen (or heard) anyone like him before. Sound familiar?
I do have to agree with #10 Marc that the world does need David Archuleta. That’s why we love him so much, because we need him in our lives, we need his voice, we need to hear his positive messages, we need to feel his spirit connecting with ours. I truly believe that David was given his incredible gift for a divine reason–to give the human race a reason to hope for good, a reason to believe we can be better, a reason to see a beautiful present and future despite all the negativity and darkness around us. It’s as if the world lights up whenever David sings. When he sings about these things, we believe him and resolve to do better. As Gandhi said, we must be the change we want to see in the world. Most singers are just interesting in entertaining their fans. David knows and understands the power of music–particularly in this day and age when anyone, anywhere can listen to anything they want at any time. If David sings a song, someone can record it, put it on a website for millions to watch and it’s all over the world within a few minutes or hours. David can reach more people in a few minutes than Elvis did in a year (or years).
Sorry guys, didn’t mean to ramble. But I trust David and his judgements about his career. This is what he was born to do. Even if we are not thrilled with his CD (some of us may not be) and even if critics bad-mouth it, I’m sure the sales will be enough to keep Jive happy and to put David back into the recording studio for a 2nd CD. And with each CD David will get better and better as he becomes more confident with the process, as he and Jive learn to give and take, hopefully David will get some of his own songs on future CDs and as his voice coach Dean said in a recent interview, David’s voice hasn’t even “settled” yet, it will probably get richer. I can’t picture David sounding even better than he already does. Can you imagine what the future holds for him? And we are all here to watch it unfold before our eyes and enjoy the journey with David every step of the way.
Lulu again, hey, just remembered that it was a year ago today that David auditoned for Idol. I bet while he was standing in line, licking his lips and feeling the butterflies in his stomach that he had no idea how things would change for him when he got on the show (IF he got on). Look what can happen in such a short time–to David and to us. Where would we be today if he never auditioned? As much as I think American Idol stinks, it did do one thing for us this year–introduce David to the world. And the world will never be the same!
There has been much speculation re. the new single and the cd. I think we could discuss this for months on end(and probably will!), but it won’t change the results. Jive will do whatever they do. How much say does David or his dad and lawyers have? None of us will ever know. All I know for sure, is that whatever they give him to record, David is going to sing the snot out of it! Gosh! Look what he did w/ Longer, for petes sake! (no offense to Fogelberg fans intended…). I have that on my IPod, Sweet Cariline too!!( no offense Neil Diamond fans…). These are songs I would NEVER think of listening to, much less purchasing. Trust the Archulator, you bet!! He’s so danged happy to be living his dream, this single and cd are going to be AWESOME, no matter what he has to sing. He can’t help but pour his soul into everything he does, we all know that, don’t we?
Let’s pretend for a moment that Jive doesn’t make the $ they want, and they drop him. Do you think for a moment, given his potential, that one of the other 6 companies that wanted him in the first place wouldn’t snatch him up? David will have more than one chance at making a cd. Somehow, I don’t think keeping a recording contract is going to be problematic for him.
Shoot, there are probable millions of us ODD’ers that will buy his music even if it isn’t good, just to hear his voice. He’s all good.
I read through all these comments waiting for elannbo…thank-you!!!! I have followed David since Star Search, American Idol, and anything I could find on the internet about him. From what I believe to be true about him, is his need to sing for us! There is an “aura” surrounding him that has caused me to quit swearing, use more courtesy, heck, my house is even cleaner!!! I can’t explain it any better than that! So….I’m with you elannbo, he will sing the “snot” out of whatever they give him! And I, myself, can’t wait!!!
Elanbo–thanks for saying what I meant to say and forgot, you were reading my mind! David can take a not-so-great song (in my opinion, “And So It Goes”) and turn it into something special. I don’t now about you other David-lovers but once David does a remake of another song, he not only does a better job but it stays in my head permanently. I find myself mentally replaying “Crazy,” “Angels,” “Imagine,” “DLTSGDOM.” “Longer” would have been better if David had been allowed to perform it the way he orginally wanted to.
And if for whatever reason Jive decides to drop him (can’t think of a reason but you never know), David will not sink into obscurity. We are not the only ones who recognize his potential and talent. The music moguls realize that he has a devoted following who will purchase any CD he makes. I haven’t been able to bring myself to listen to the Top 40 for many years, most of the music seems to be suggestive, mediocre, repetitive, etc., you name it. All the industry cares about is $$$ and feeds the listening public a steady diet of crap which, sadly, we have become accustomed to. I prefer to live in the past when it comes to music. David is forcing me to live in the present and look to the future.
It’s all good! And I agree with Rob (thanks for the compliments on my name) that David needs his own single at this point. As elanbo and lulu reminded us, if he can turn such lemons like “Longer” and “So It Goes” into lemonade – heck, he turned an overplayed cover song DLTSGDOM into one of the best performances the whole season! – what wouldn’t he do on a song written just for him?
What wonderful,well thought out comments tonight. Lulu, once again you have brought me to tears. I agree completely with your paragraph that David is here for a reason to add light into this very dark world. Having had the privilege to attend a concert and see David after the concert, I was struck by how true it is that something radiates from within through his eyes and his skin. His countenance is angelic. I find it interesting how many people have witnessed this same phenomenon. I also find myself thinking about those who do not receive this same feeling from him…one such person being my own sister. When I was trying to relate my experience at the concert and meeting David afterwards, she thought I was completely losing it. So much so, that I didn’t share with her some wonderful experiences I had that night. I have come to the conclusion that David touches those that are ready to receive his gift. I honestly feel that your soul just has to be ready and open to receive David. I am tearful right now as I am typing this and getting chills just remembering when this happened to me. It was very unexpected, and I will never, ever forget that moment in my life. It is something that I have put in that special place in my heart to always remember and treasure. It is something as special as the birth of each one of my children…words cannot describe it. I am surprised that a 17 year old boy can elicit such feelings in me. My goodness, I have boys who are just older and just younger than him. I cannot fathom either of them being able to deal with the pressures and expectations that David has without falling apart. My feeling is that David is going to be enormously successful, and I am so excited to be witnessing this taking place right before my eyes!
Lucky angel How did you read my mind? The only thing that I havn’t experienced is going to an AI concerta and meeting him – I hope one day. Those who do not feel the same when meeting David are not yet ready to let the Spirit into their lives and may actually be afraid of him. My son is 18 and also gifted, but sadly does not embrace his gift as David has. I would say that we are all very lucky that David does this, but does not take it for granted. He works hard to achieve the best that he can and willingly, joyfully and, I get the feeling, actually has the overpowering need to share his singing voice. We should all count ourselves lucky that we are here to absorb the message that young David is sending.
Of course like you guys I’m enamoured of David Archuleta the musician, artist and vocalist extraordinaire – even the word ‘singer’ seems too common to describe him. I also believe that David has very clear ideas on what his music will eventually sound like and what routes he’s going to take down the musical journey. All these are given but I can’t help but hope and pray that he comes out swinging with his debut single and cd – just to shut up the critics and haters out there. I think David himself is quite aware of this as he has said that he’ll probably only be able to make music his way a bit further into the future. Right now it’s the almighty $ that counts and there’s no other way around this, especially with big labels like Jive. Look at what happened to Taylor Hicks. I understand that his debut cd sold like 750,000 copies and yet they still dropped him! Record companies nowadays just want to see the money rolling in like yesterday and they’re not prepared to wait. I remember Toni Braxton describing singers as being a dime a dozen and that record companies had a dollar to spend. So the bottom line is all important and I really hope David’s debut is super successful in that respect. It will at least allow him breathing space for a more introspective second cd.
Lastly I want to be able to tell AI ‘Hah! you bozos got it all wrong by championing the wrong guy to win the title. The REAL winner was right there under your noses and you people were absolutely clueless’! I know, I know, the competition is over and I’m supposed to let go all the bittterness and anger buuut………..
Lucky Angel,
I want to respond to your comments about your sister not understanding your passion. I have had a life-changing experience discovering David. I haven’t shared this experience with anyone in my circle (family or friends) because I know that they won’t understand. My experience is so precious and so sacred, that discussing it with someone who doesn’t understand would be disrespectful to that experience. Am I a little bit crazy? (Does that make me crazy???) Yes, I am a little bit crazy, in a good way. I am feeling things that I haven’t felt in 15 years and I want to see where this takes me.
Oh davidfanLIZ
Hasn’t lucky angel sparked something here. I too have been wary of sharing my feelings about David, how he has truly changed my life. And, as you said, only to avoid being disrespectful to the experience. I have never watched AI before this season. Someone must have known that I needed to hear David sing. I was battling depression and having trouble trying to figure out my 18 year old son. I could go on for pages describing how watching him progress through AI and now on tour with such poise and humble grace has made me re-evaluate my life, begin to reconnect with my faith and given me the strength to carry on with my life and all the challenges I face. To be able to express my self here is wonderful THANK YOU RASCAL for this opportunity.
arch3mal
When I posted #28 I too felt that the word “sing” did not really describe what David does, yet I couldn’t find a better word.
oops forgot davidfanLIZ
I will go “crazy” with you – boy did the word to that song strike my heart!
Great comment string, and thanks again (and again!) Rascal for returning! I woke up this morning with guess-who in my consciousness (again!). Perhaps feeling his beautiful spirit, which has obviously entered us all (all who read these pages). I had a sense of compassion and love beaming on me and it did seem to have to do with David’s spirit. Perhaps he was praying at that moment. Who knows how consciousness works here on the ground?! Anyway, it got me to thinking about what the song “Crush” might be about. We’ve speculated about everything else David under the sun, so here’s my guess: it’s about those who say the feeling is just a “crush”, but it’s deeper than that, and true, and it’s really love. Young people are discredited for their feelings, and told “oh, it’s just a crush”. But love is just as valid, no matter what you call it. Well, obviously I’m anticipating hearing that song!!! Geesh, I’m even dreaming about it!
Rascal – I’m with you. The ultimate (if not overlooked) performance in my mind was “Think of Me”… just like A.L.Weber said: “It was a song written for a Diva”. That a virtuoso – such as Weber – could not imagine even one of his OWN songs being non-gender, non-Broadway, and spun into contemporary magic only illustrates, to me anyway, that David’s talent is far beyond even the magic Weber can create. David is bigger than we can even imagine – we’ve only seen an atom’s worth of what lies ahead.
I can’t wait.
On another note – I’ve put my photos and videos online now. Please note my videos are only short clips.. and the photos aren’t the best, as my dh did something to the camera when he took it to the sand box (Middle East).
( It was acting up, and to top it off, I forgot to bring my memory card!!!! I KNEW I’d forget something. Grrrrrr.
http://www.freewebs.com/bigskybcs
Enjoy!
*There’s a funny video of David having a little fun with Cook onstage.. it’s in my youtube account (linked from website above).
Hello Rascal, I just LOVE your website, it’s as addicting as David himself! And I just love the people on here. To Awestruck, LuckyAngel, davidfanLIZ and Arch3mal: all of you mentioned how David’s vocals–and David himself–have had a positive influence on you. I have to say the same thing, I just feel better when I listen to him. Since April I have viewed almost 6,000 videos on YouTube–1/2 of it just junk and the other 1/2 David performances. That’s insane! But I can’t help myself, I have to listen to him every day, can’t explain how or why. Some of his songs–the way he sings them–brings tears to my eyes. My sister in law, Diane, watches Idol every year and agrees that David was the best singer this season. I once asked her if she ever gets teary-eyed listening to some of his songs and she just looked at me as if to say, “No, why? YOU actually cry when he sings?” I was really embarrassed, I thought that if you liked David’s music then you felt the same way as everyone else who liked it but that’s not true. Some of us have more of an emotional connection with him than others. That’s why we all spend so much time on here and Fanblast and YouTube, etc., reading everything we can about David, keeping up with all the news (I am off work tomorrow and will be listening to the radio via the internet at 7:45 and cannot wait to hear “Crush!”), looking at all the pictures, reading about fans who were lucky enough to meet him and hearing what they had to say about him and the concert, keeping track of David’s appearances, etc. Lucky Angel, you said it best when you commented that David touches those that are ready to receive his gift. Although I cannot explain why some of us are more “touched” than others when it comes to David, I am grateful that I am one of them! And so are all of you that share a bit of yourselves on Rascal’s wonderful website. It’s such an emotional release to come on here and “talk” with others who share these same feelings. My family and friends have absolutely no idea that I am on the comptuer for hours at a time reading about David, I’m never going to tell them, this is my private indulgence. A few years ago experienced a severe domestic upheaval (hubby went through his mid-life crisis and took off with a girl a few years older than our oldest daughter, plus 3 of my 4 children were divorced around the same time) and until David came along I couldn’t get the whole pathetic situation out of my mind. Now I have something positive in my life to look forward to instead of something negative to look back on and I’m a lot happier. I believe we all have a “dark side” to our souls, a place where we hide our deepest secrets and fears–traits, qualities and/or characteristics about ourselves that we don’t like and pray that no one else will discover. When I hear David sing, his beautiful voice and spirit light up that “dark side” of my soul.
First of all i would like to start out by saying Rascal i love your posts!!!!
8 months ago i was watching a show that i have watched for the past 6 years. I was watching and i came upon this amazing kid shy, young, but with an amazing talent. His voice just blew me away and honestly blew MILLIONS of people away. I noticed an amazing GLOW in this kid. I listened to him and from that point on i knew that this kid was going to be HUGE. I have to say that I have EVERY bit of confidence in David Archuleta. I think Jive is doing an amazing job with him so far by promoting him like they are. David Archuleta will be a superstar mark my word. He will sell so many albums from his debut album to his endless amount of albums he will make. Jive would be really stupid to drop him if his first album isnt up to their expectations but i have no worries because i know it will go PLATINUM time and time again. He will succeed so much in this business. Anyway i have had the pleasure in meeting him 2 times already and like someone stated in here already he has this aura about him that makes him stand out in a huge crowd. He is honestly the most genuine,humble,nicest, kind hearted, repectful and coolest kid i have EVER MET in my ENTIRE life. I love music so much and i have never EVER felt this way about an artist than i do about David Archuleta. Honestly this kind of talent comes every one in a billion and im so glad we were blessed enough to be able to witness a miracle, because that is what he is. I never thought i would say this but i never thought any artist would ever surpass Carrie Underwood for me but he has Definately passed her in my mind, and i honestly think he will be bigger and more successful than Carrie Underwood and that will be a huge feat for him, but he WILL be more SUCCESSFUL THAN her i can feel it. Also i truly BELIEVE that GOD sent us an ANGEL from heaven for this world to see and that ANGEL IS DAVID ARCHULETA. This kid has touched so many lives and changed so many people in the matter of 8 months, just IMAGINE what this kid will do to everyone in 20 years when he is still out-selling everyone in the music business. Im 24 yrs old and im a guy, i am probably David Archuletas biggest male fan but i truly believe that this KID is a miracle sent from GOD because i have not seen a more PERFECT angel than this KID. If there is anything near perfect it is David Archuleta. He is just an amazing and wonderful human being to say the least. Words do not begin to describe what this kid means to me and millions of fans around the country and millions more around the world. He is jsut a blessing and a true GEM that the world has been blessed to be able to take part in. As someone stated in here earlier, The world WILL NEVER EVER be the same now because we have WITNESSED an ANGEL and a BLESSING and he has and will always change the world one person at a time. I have seen the movement that he has made in people i know and people i have never met before but have told me what he has done to them and what he means to them. Just one example this guy who was on the verge of killing himself(comitting suicide) listened to him one night on american idol and totally changed his viewpoint and changed his life around immensly. This is ust one story among the millions that he has affected. David will be huge in this business and his success will be endless and i have the utmost faith in David and i do have faith in Jive that they recognize this amazing talent. Who honestly cannot like David Archuleta, he is amazing and HIS VOICE is just so touching and TRULY ANGELLIC, and if there is honestly anyone out there that does not like him or recognize his talent then they have problems. David Archuleta is HONESTLY one in a BILLION and will be around for YEARS AND YEARS to come. This is just the start of him WONDERFUL and amazing career. David you will have so much success and you deserve all the success in the world. Your dreams are coming true as we speak. David you have made our dreams come true and that dream was you. You are truly amazing and we your fans love and admire you ENDLESSLY and we WISH YOU THE best of luck in you career and we will stand by you FOREVER!!!!! David you are the BEST BOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
LuLu: I have a close friend going through a similar situation… What a great diversion from your situation David’s music has become! Believe it or not, there’s going to be a happy ending to your story..
Although this is NOT David (not by a long shot, lol) – this one’s for you tonight: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEQYN1DC220
Yes, I’m a country fanatic (and hooked on Archuleta).. your story made me think of this song! Couldn’t help it!
Good luck to you, LuLu…
“Have faith. Have faith. Have faith.” It’s all good. David never has to fight to win hearts during AI, things worked out/are working out for the best, even when things were seemingly going wrong.
By now, I have read zillionth of posts over the internet, so I cant recall where I read this but I have often wonder how David can sing with just one functioning vocal chord: The doctor(s) told the Archuletas that someone up there obviously want him to sing, because medically it is very difficult for him to do so.
For what its worth, Jive is probably glowing with pride to have a formidable vocalist such as David in their fold.
Now, on to CRUSH!!!!! I’m so high in anticipation and anxiety.
Dearest friends thanks so much for all the kind comments. As you can see by the time, I am a night owl who really should be asleep so I can get up to hear Crush in the morning!
I just wanted to share a little with you tonight and add how grateful I am to have a place to share my feelings about David. As many of you have mentioned, we are often unable to share our joy of finding David and his music with family and friends. I have often pondered why only certain people are touched by David and his music. It seems that many have been in a dark place in life when David and his beautiful voice lifted them up into a new place with a new attitude and renewed zest for life. Others have been ill and received comfort and sometimes healing from hearing him sing. Others are just blindsided by his talent, good looks, and absolute joy that radiates from every pore in his body. How can a teenager evoke these feelings in adults? He is no ordinary teenager! When I saw David in person, I honestly felt as though I was in the presence of an Angel. I know I sound crazy, but I really am a totally sane functioning person! He is perfection physically, vocally, and emotionally. Look at him and then realize he is only 17! I have three teenagers right now, and teenagers do NOT have flawless skin that glows. They are not concerned about others…teenagers live in a world that revolves around them and their needs. Teenagers are self-centered and “me first.” Most teenage boys will not proclaim their love for their mother without any shame or embarrassment. It just isn’t how they think or feel at that time of their life. Those feelings of loving and caring about family and others and putting the needs of someone else before your own comes later in life. It is a learning and living cycle that we all go through. Yet, here is this seemingly perfect being who appears to be without guile, has managed to captivate so many, and always is concerned about everyone else first….and he is only 17!
I agree with Dominic’s post above that he is a blessing and a gift to those in need. One doesn’t have to be a religious person to receive this blessing of an Angel. When I was touched by David right to the very core of my soul, I felt like something inside me awakened. It was like a jolt of electricity coursing through my body. I couldn’t deny what had just happened to me…it was a very moving spiritual feeling and from that moment on I knew that I had to be a part of this. I want to be a better person because of David. I want to be a better mother to my sons. I can’t deny that this boy has awakened my soul, and I didn’t realize how long my soul had been asleep. I don’t consider myself to be a deeply religious person. Yet, I feel so strongly inside of me that David Archuleta is a gift to the world from our Creator. We get from him what we need be that comfort, healing, joy, or the pleasure of hearing beautiful music once again! We are so lucky to be in a place in our lives that we were able to receive this gift!
Sorry to be so long winded..now I must get to sleep or I won’t be able to wake up in 2 short hours for Crush!!! Today is my birthday…what a gift to have Crush come out on August 1!!! Good night!!!
Happy Birthday Lucky Angel
You read my mind again, I am fortunate in that I have you to articulate my feelings… I have a hard time putting things in to words at times.
Yes, I too, want to be a better person, a better Mom, husband, friend
Dominic, your hearfelt comment was wonderful to read, embrace all you feel about David!
KCCY, one of David’s comments on his E.W. part three interview, when asked about doing Dan Folgberg’s Longer straight up due to producer’s request as opposed to changing it up, has been one of things about David that has most affected me. He commented something to the effect that If something happens, then it is meant to happen and you learn from the experience! I don’t want to listen to the interview right now, as I might wake up my husband!
Lulu and others I too have spent hours a day visiting FB, You Tube, Noting David etc… and then REvisiting the same stories, songs… In about an hour I will have something NEW to listen to. How exciting is this?!?
Fellow friends, thanks for opening up and sharing your deepest feelings, know you are not alone
Thanks RASCAL for this safe environment where we can share.
KCCY “change to last sentece” I don’t want to listen to the interview right now, TO GET HIS EXACT WORDS, as I might wake up my husband!
Good morning everyone! Just heard “Crush” around 30 minutes ago, definitely a song for the teens–what else to expect from Jive and being David’s first single–but still good! I predict it going straight to the top of the charts. I’ll listen to ANYTHING David sings! There’s been so much happening with David lately, it’s all coming at once and we love it! His interview was good, too.
Happy birthday Lucky Angel! What a nice birthday gift you are receiving today (David’s debut single). I turn 50 next month and I think the official release of “Crush” is on that day. My body is wearing out but my spirit is still young at heart. And yes, David is a God-given gift for all of us to enjoy. That’s why his talent is so unique, enormous, far-reaching and connecting. His gift is meant to be shared with as many people as possible. American Idol may not be a real singing competition but that show was the best place for David to get exposure. David has a “divine mission,” so to speak, and there’s no way that he won’t succeed, too many people literally NEED to hear his voice. And when the burdens of superstardom become too heavy, we will be glad to lighten his load.
Dominic, I absolutely love hearing a man confess his admiration for David Archuleta, there are too many male “closet David lovers” out there. Why are some guys too embarrassed to say they love David’s voice? I think highly of a man (and woman) who is not afraid to admit to loving someone (or something) that is not considered “cool” or “popular” at the moment.
Big Sky–thank you so much for that video, I do not care for country music (except the older stuff from the 50s-70s) but I loved that song (“Mountains” by Lonestar). It was just what I needed to hear, I sat there and cried (I’m still crying). I feel so much better already–this morning has been wonderful so far, what a way to begin my day!
To all of you “regulars” on Noting David–thanks so much for your wonderful comments and especially to you, Rascal. This website has been a godsend.