Why David is Not Disney
Virtually all of David’s most passionate fans agree that he should stay as far away from Disney as possible, or indeed anything that smacks of a Disney style approach to his image. His brilliant new album cover leaves little doubt that he and his people agree.
One of the interesting advantages of avoiding the Disney taint is that David will actually be better able to maintain his commitment to a respectable public persona without sacrificing authenticity or artistic integrity. Those artists who have had to divest themselves of the long shadow of the Disney brand in order to succeed independently have had to resort to fairly extreme redirection–usually involving overt sexuality–in order to be taken seriously. David, by contrast, has the opportunity to craft his own version of wholesomeness, without having it be a limitation or a liability.
But there may be other reasons why David is not Disney. According to a report released last week, the young Disney performer is a rather specialized individual. David may just simply be… well, too real.
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That clip is so funny. David is like you said just to REAL to be Disney. Thanks Rascal for the laugh.
This is an easy one:
Disney = mediocrity.
David is not mediocre.
Therefore, David is not Disney.
Rascal, where do you find this? I am laughing my head off here..Thank goodness David is not one of them.
I’m LOL and all the controversy over the photo (though most comments are positive) on the different sites.
With one single photo, that apparently he chose or had a hand in choosing, he just put EVERYONE on notice, including those fans who haven’t been paying attention. Which, if you HAD been paying attention, is pretty true to form and typical of him.
Back to work……
ROTFL Rascal.
No Disney DNA, nope; maybe gangsta? j/k
That’s hilarious!
I wonder if Disney will ever be so bold as to produce a David knock-off of some type. Wouldn’t put it past them…
Heh, cute. Would not want to be Zack after this.
I am getting used to the album cover. My aversion to the pale look…. well, it took some effort to make David look that way. I am more interested in what David himself wants to say with this cover than in my own reaction to it. David seem to love surprises.
And I LOVE all the rest of the components: the seriousness, the lines, the box/out-of-the-box design dichotomy, the challenge, the simplicity, etc.
My one word would be: raw.
So….. not Disney. If it were, they would have to come up with a new definition for Adventure Land.
Sorry to ignore your middle paragraph Rascal.
Yes.
This is what I see in the choices: more freedom to define himself, (polygon extraordinaire), verses “what I am not”.
More effort now, less later.
Thank you for your sharing your insight.
Oh man, this is too good not to pass along. Thanks for bringing it to our attention. Gotta love the Onion Network--and you gotta love that David is NOT Disney.
Guess this means no “magic rainbow” popping up behind David when he sings.
The album cover has affected me like a shot of adrenalin…just when I was acclimating to a teen-pop feast with some serious music on the side--what a rush.
Thank you all that is good in the world for not putting David in the infernal hands of Disney!
LOVED this comment juliebug #4:
With one single photo, that apparently he chose or had a hand in choosing, he just put EVERYONE on notice, including those fans who haven’t been paying attention.
I especially agree with the last part!
“No!
Poor Zac Efron!”
LOL
OMGosh Rascal! For real, how do you find these things?
Oh thank god for the Onion! NICE WORK, rascal. That was brilliant…lol.
That photo is “album art” and I can see it “…on the cover of the Rolling Stone.”
Just saw this at FOD:
Cover Art for David’s Debut Album Confirmed
This article from AceShowbiz seems to confirm the cover-art we were all discussing yesterday, as does this article from Idollive.net. Our poll, which yielded 1,252 responses in a just a few hours, indicates that the vast majority of you (69%) love the cover: an edgy, buff, older-looking David will attract new fans (particularly male fans) while maintaining and gaining new female fans with his striking features. Others were less impressed, hoping for at least a hint of a grin: as we know from the thousands of fan pictures we post here, David is rarely without his signature smile. Nonetheless, I believe this is a smart move on the part of Jive, and although I agree that even just the slightest shadow of a smile would have added to his appeal, I am relieved that the cover art is simple, casual, and presents a mature-looking (*thud*) David to the world. And I love the fact that the “I” and the “T” are drawn out, proving once and for all that David Archuleta is, indeed, “IT.”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Ux3-a9RE1Q
Sorry forgot to include te links. Here they are:
This article from AceShowbiz seems to confirm the cover-art…
http://www.aceshowbiz.com/news/view/00018544.html
…as does this article from Idollive.net
http://www.idollive.net/
By the way, folks, don’t miss the copy tags super-ed onto the story, e.g. --
“Future Models may be capable of nuance, subtlety.”
Ah, gotta love the Onion.
jackryan4DA — I’m not so sure I would consider that confirmation. Those news outlets appear to have gotten their information from the same place we did — that the image showed up on Amazon.
beebee, I thought that youtube video was going to end with David’s pic
Someone smart please do it!!
Rsacal- I really am convinced you never sleep! Where do you find this stuff?
yeah gotta love the Onion! “5-10 Year Relevancy Expectancy”! That’s hilarious!! Actually, it’s more like 2-5 Year Relevancy Expectancy. So, CLEARLY, David is NOT Disney, could never be in a million years!
Can’t wait to watch the clip when I get home. But for now just had to chime and agree with you all that David is to Disney what Tiger Woods is to mini-putt.
And the CD cover definitely shows that. It might scream “young hottie” but his eyes whisper “old soul.”
(This work thing is definitely cramping my ODD style! lol)
Oh Yes,Tofan. David is a Tiger (definitiely not a chihuahua!)
Nice Article…I love reading your comments…most just make me laugh (in a good way!!!)…
I have no idea what songs will be on David’s Album, but I’ve heard David sing for years and know what he is capable of and I think you guys WILL be blown away what you will hear on November 11th 2008…Oh I can’t wait to hear your comments then…as David would say; “ha ha”…
Go Big “D”…
Hi Brett -- GREAT album cover, the future, now. I am absolutely over the top about the cover.
I am looking forward to the album release. I just keep thinking about the feast of music, the number of songs that I will have to listen to--Christmas this year is Nov 11th for me.
Thanks for commenting; it is great to hear your perspective.
Thanks rascal, I didn’t know that the Onion did video. Ohmigosh!! Too funny. If that “boxer, tough-guy” CD cover moves David further from the squeaky world of Disney, then I change my vote, I love it.
Brett, yes yes, I want to be BLOWN AWAY!!!
Hi Brett! Yes, I know we are going to be completely blown away with the album. I almost wish that only one song would be released at a time, so we could obsess, dissect and analyze one song completely before moving on to the next.
I’m counting down to November 11!
davidfanLIZ, you gotta love that “pout”! I actually don’t see one but yay, change your vote!! This “heavyweight” (musically speaking!) boxer image is as far as away from Disney as it can go without veering into something that David is not.
RE the “boxer” impression — Let’s also remember, however ambivalent we may be about it, that David came to initial prominence in his field as a competitor. The reference fits. They even donned him in boxer drag for that silly finale show; the new cover art is a much improved and much subtler version of the metaphor.
I don’t see the boxer/thug. I see competitor, warrior.
I could see the boxer but not thug. Warrior, yes! For his valiant effort and hard work to do everything that he could every time.
I have listened to DLTSGDOM, LMT, and Imagine (Ford Center edition) while looking at the CD cover. They mesh. I see no discord. This cover is a dimension of David that has been missing in his previous photo library.
If you observe closely the planes of his face in the proposed CD cover, one can see the emerging chiseled visage.
The flat surfaces of his supraorbital process and foramen (eyebrows and upper eye areas) are clean and pure. The angles of his jaw and his mandible have the promising materialization of multiple sharp lines and definition. The sweep from the ear to the chin on the right side of his face is smooth, crucial, fresh and wholesome. His lips which form the end point of the release of his voice are sensitive, exquisite and the ultimate in chiseled.
Rascal wrote about David as a sculptor of “Imagine.” This proposed CD cover depicts a sculpture of an emerging artist, full of promise, not yet fully formed.
Kizzi: wow! talk about being inspired by David’s voice.
Rascal: my 10 year old daughter, a Miley and JB fan did not understand the video. Haha. But, yes, David is so not Disney, not fabricated, no artificial colors, nothing added. He is real, both in gifts and in personality. I have said before how much more I like him as a person than as a singer, and that is saying a LOT.
Brett: always enjoy your comments. You make us even more anxious, like a kid being forced to eat his dinner because he knows there is dessert waiting for him. Is it Nov. 11 yet!! anybody!! I don’t want my dinner. I want dessert RIGHT NOW!! (stumping)
Brett#25, it’s so good to have you hang out with us here on rascal’s blog. And, I am definitely looking forward to being “blown away” with this album. I really do think, even us fans, are not yet prepared for what’s coming. Can’t wait!
Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQYRyPieQEI
Just turned off the TV after my children were watching Disney sitcoms, and let me tell you if that isn’t dribble I don’t know what is. The “manufactured laughs” are mind numbing… and trying to put David anywhere near “numbing” is laughable.
Thanks for The Onion clip… explains why I can’t stand Disney sitcoms lol!
As for the album cover, I think that this photo speaks of who David is becoming, or better yet what lies underneath as yet unexposed. The mysteriousness portrayed by his overall appearance, seems to heighten just that…mystery. One look tells you to look again and to find that familiarity that we know and love. Yet in the process of looking (and soon hearing), we find new dimensions of David to discover and love. That to me is pure genius.
acnewjersey…thanks for the tease on the ad. I will flip when I see it on TV. Do you think they will chnge the number sold and call it a Gold record since it will be one (its close isn’t it?).
I was almost embarrased for the disney kids, especially Zac Efron! “No expression around the eyes” oh my.
No, David no way would fit in Disney mold.
I have changed my mind after looking at the album cover. I was ambivalent about it as it did not look like the David we have seen so much of. Warm, happy, smiling, outgoing. But I can see that it will draw in new fans who may have disregarded David because he appeared too young and sweet.
Of course I still think he’s beautiful no matter what.
acnewjersey: thank you for the link. I’m so excited. Is it November yet?
Breaking news:
“Crush” just jumped from #32 to #15 on the Hot 100.
It’s good news every day here in Archuland.
I wish I could see that video clip you’re all talking about as I’m already in the office. It’ll take some time till I get home to view it and understand the banter about it.
Nevertheless, I have an inkling of what it must be about, especially with all these references to Disney talents. With all due respect to Disney productions, I was a big fan of anything Disney when I was young -- that was when Walt Disney was still alive and the driving force behind the amazing growth of his company from being a fledgling animator of Mickey Mouse. When he died, the magic of Walt was lost somehow and I could no longer find it in the post-Walt movie productions. I guess they just had to continue the tradition of Walt’s vision for the wholesome entertainment of the youth. It’s just so sad that the talented youth who have used Disney as their springboard for stardom have fallen into the trap of being viewed as shallow and mediocre, thereby exerting so much more effort in overturning their image when they reach adulthood. The one talent from them who I think is doing better than most is Shia Lebouf. But I’m deviating from David here…
Anyway, David sure is smart for doing something about his image early on in the release of his first album. That cover may have been what was needed all along to broadcast to one and all that he is not all just sweet and cute and smiley. He has come of age, and the serious, pensive and confident pose is a foreboding of him as an adult artist (turning 18 in Dec. 28th) to take stock of and contend with. Although he wants it to be a pop album, he is definitely making a statement that there’s more to him than meets everyone’s eyes. The intelligence in the directions he chooses for himself is so darn attractive. As Brett would say -- Go Big D!
rascal, good question..DO you ever sleep?
Now, about the “Cover’ photo..I stayed off today because I wanted to read all the differing opinions, and boy there were alot of them. So many analogies, speculations and opinions, and the more I read, the more I began to understand..The decision to use this photo which is so different than any other was nothing short of BRILL-EE-ANT!! There’s still over a month before David’s album drops, and Cook’s single was just released..what better way to keep the BUZZ about David buzzing? I so admire david for not taking the safe route by using a photo that would appeal to most if not all of his fans. Love this photo or not, it has made the anticipation of the album that much more intense. Is there any doubt he knows what he’s doing? Every step David takes in his career has been like a love song he’s composing and a dance he’s choreagraphing. And what a love song & dance it is!!
That’s my take about one of the most amazing photos of David.
Nite’ all.
And to David,,Sweet dreams, be safe & secure in our love always….contigo siempre!
David will have to work hard to divest himself of the Idol label. Let’s not saddle him with the Disney boat anchor as well. Pleasantly though, my local radio station rarely mentions Idol when introducing Crush; they just say ‘here’s the hot, new single from David Archuleta, Crush.’ Love it!
The video is hilarious. Although David is definitely too talented for Disney, it’s not all bad. For the kids, Disney is fun entertainment. Just because we are adults now doesn’t mean we didn’t watch our share of crap when we were kids. They were great fun while it lasted.
Such a perfect video to illustrate the quicksand that can be Disney. hilarious.
As for the cover photo, after having had a day to absorb it and read all of the comments, it occured to me that the one word that summarizes this picture for me is:
‘Masculine’ with a capital ‘M’!
Every generation has to put up with the crap their children listen too. LOL! For my parents it was Donnie Osmond, David Cassidy and Bobby Sherman, and The Monkees, among others, and if she’d had to listen to me and my friends warbling at the top of our lungs to You Never Promised Me a Rose Garden by Lynn Anderson just one more time I’m not sure what would have happened.
For her, when she was a tween she was told in no uncertain terms by her father to “turn that horrible noise OFF!”…the singer was Frank Sinatra. He was more of a Rudy Vallee kinda guy. heh heh heh
David has won TCA for “Best Smile”
Talent is talent and whether it comes from Idol or Disney if it is manufactured it will ultimately fizzle out but if it is real it will keep on and on.
I have not paid much attention to the “young” singers of today but having listened to a few of them lately David is a whole new ball game. I am so looking forward to his album although I second the idea of a song at a time so we can savor each one. I begin each day with a Crush smile-it isn’t getting old yet.
Rascal … where do you find this stuff??? Just hilarious…
What a brilliant choice of photo making such a bold “I’m no Disney boy” statement right from the get go.
I’m so happy!!
Freo #48, thanks for the great news! David has the best of the best of smiles!! He is a winner!
I was answering someone’s question on another site and felt impressed to share it here also…please forgive my writing skills…
Let me tell you a little about a fireside a few months ago. I was asked to speak to a group of youth (these kids reside here from all over the United States) regarding my trials and triumphs with my MS. I felt impressed several times to ask David to participate with me…so I went to his home (poor kid had only been home a day and would be leaving for the AI tour in a few more days)and said; “David, would you participate with me at this fireside?”…without any hesitation he said; “sure, what would you like me to sing?” I said; “David, I don’t really care what you sing, but I want you to speak with me”…there was this (seemed like an hour) silence, probably for 10 seconds…I could tell he was uncomfortable with the idea of speaking. Then I said; “David I really feel impressed that you should share your story with these youth” and David said; “I’ll do it”!!! So the smart guy I am…I talked for 10 minutes (which was waaaaay too long, knowing they were waiting for David). Then David got up and spoke for 5 minutes or so and turned to me and said; “OK Brett…now what?” I got up and said; “should we let the kids ask some questions?”…David went on for over an hour…folks, I was so tired and couldn’t stand any longer, that I sat on the partition next to the podium…I kept looking over at Jeff (his Dad) and I could tell he was “floored” that David could talk that long! As usual, David was inspired to sing the closing song and sang “Be still my soul”…of course you’ve all heard it on youtube. There was not a dry eye in the congregation…some of these kids were pretty “tough” and I was so moved to see them moved…a night we’ll never forget! Then, as I stated earlier, he stayed until every single person that wanted to come up and say hi, take pics, get signatures (which was everyone…a crowd of approximately 400 people, maybe more)etc…That’s when I really really realized that David was in this for “real” and for the “real” reason!!!
Go Big “D”…
Wow Brett! I have wanted to hear all the details of that story ever since it happened. Thanks so much for telling us. It means a lot to me. I have listened to David sing that song so many times, I almost have it memorized by now. When I sing it in church, it’s David’s voice I hear in my head. I love that.
And I hope your MS isn’t giving you too much trouble these days. My mom has MS also, so I know a bit about that battle. All the best to you!
Brett,
Thanks so much for sharing the behind-the-scenes information about the events that preceeded David singing “Be Still My Soul” -- which I’ve viewed on YouTube. I appreciate your first hand vantage point. It sounds like Spirit was ‘in the house’ big time that night. And, yes, we can see that David is the real deal -- in oh so many ways!
Wow! Thanks so much for sharing that story, Brett! David’s “Be Still My Soul” is among my “favorites” on my You Tube list, and I really appreciate getting the behind-the-scenes account. I absolutely agree: David is the real deal! How fortunate for you to have known him as long as you have (and for all those attending the Fireside to hear him sing live).
Brett, thank you for sharing this story with us. I am so touched. I have so much to learn from this young man. A heart of gold, full of dedication, always willing to go the extra mile for the good of others.
Kindredspirit, how cool is it that we posted at the exact same time (and expressing the exact same thing)?
hello gorgeous -- very cool! Surely we are kindred spirits!
Freo #48 Really?!! Hurray For David’s Best Smile Award from TCA!!! He truly deserves that recognition as he is so known for his signature smile and laughter that emanates from the depths of his joyful soul -- it is so contagious. I’m smiling ear to ear for him right now.
Brett.. thank you so much for sharing… I could feel
David’s “realness” the very first time I heard him sing on a show I had never watched before in my life…and his music keeps on touching me, every single day. I’m so thankful that he can share his gift with the world.
Brett,
Thanks for filling in the details of the Fireside evening. It is a wonderful story and you described it well. Thanks also for posting “Be Still my Soul” on YouTube. That song means so much to me. Even on the 5″ screen and with the homemade video, David’s voice and spirit shine through. David is truly a generous and loving soul. How lucky we are to have him in our lives. Months ago rascal wrote on his “Author” page:
“thanks to … David, who reminds us through his work, his integrity, and his disposition, that a treacherous and cynical world can dissipate in an instant with the expression of love.”
Brett, I wish you and your family all the best.
Funny this is the conversation for today because David is the #1 song on Radio Disney today, 9/24.
But not to have detractors claim he’s ONLY for Disney, (pshaw) the Bi- College News wrote an article dealing with the newsroom playlist-
“The newsroom playlist varies greatly from semester to semester, and indeed can change a lot from week to week. While this time last year The Beatles and Devin Davis got a lot of play, this semester has been dominated by Kanye West, Jordin Sparks, and, as of last Sunday’s production, David Archuleta.
In one 13-hour period last week, we listened to David Archuleta’s first post-”American Idol” single, “Crush,” a truly disturbing 49 times. We had the song on repeat until the death threats coming from the copyediting side of the room began to take on a serious tone. Sadly, I still can’t wrap my tongue around the blasted lyrics”
So, it seems the college crowd is hooked too.
Sorry, I forgot to post the link
http://www.biconews.com/?p=9586
Another thing of interest is that Carly Hennessy (AKA Carly Smithson, AI Finalist) is also on the playlist.
I hope Carly does well, she was my second favorite on the show.
Brett, it’s so great to have you--someone who actually *knows* David--join the cyber conversations. I was so happy to read the back story to the “fireside” video, thanks for sharing that. I was also delighted to see this comment of yours, elsewhere, I hope you don’t mind my bringing it over here. Hand-to-heart to Lupe--it sounds like she likes the album cover, and I’m so pleased to know that! I hope you don’t get into trouble for putting this insight out there! (And I hope *I* don’t get into trouble for repeating it here!!)
“…Lupe (David’s mom) was over to our home today and she hadn’t actually seen the cover…even though she helped him pick it out…I hope I’m ok telling this, Lupe looked right into David’s eyes and said; “oh look at our David”…it was pretty moving!!!
“Oh look at our David” INDEED! She and Jeff have created one of the greatest artistic masterpieces I’ve ever seen or heard. Please tell them THANK YOU for sharing David with the world, we are so, so SO grateful and appreciative.
Great stories from everyone!
“she helped him pick it out…”
And so David’s hand was in the pot -- our guess was right! David is not exactly a wallflower, is he? He could have traipsed along and let Jive take the lead -- and go down the conventional road like so many others his age. But with this and many other actions he is defining himself, his music, and his career.
Oh maaaan… am in the office and am crying my eyes out! Brett thank you for sharing the details of the fireside event… I read about it in another blog but not the inside story. For the right reasons… that delivers a big punch!
Thank you also for being a good and loyal friend to our David and a nice conduit for us fans
The special ties will be more critical for David as he ascend to his inevitable greatness.
I actually sent a letter to David which I hope reached him! A little funny story cos I failed to meet FunnyGirl’s deadline as I was away from the blogs for 4 days… So Pam05 of FOD asked me if I wanted to send a message which I of course accepted. The thing is Pam05 was asking the MALE fans… as I didn’t have time to read the blogs at that time, I wasn’t really informed of what I was agreeing to.
Guess how confused Pam05 was when she got my letter w/ a picture of me — she thought I was playing tricks on her! Haha
acnewjersey-- great teaser! but don’t forget the “certified gold”! As of Sunday, Crush was shy of a mere 5K from gold status… I wonder what status it would be by November? Hmmmm, what do you think arch angels?
AWWW Brett, thank you for sharing the details of fireside. It brought tears to my eyes. I seem to be doing a lot of crying since first hearing David sing Shop Around -- happy tears though, tears that ease the heartache in my soul. Long story.
Good morning angels. Brett, thank you SO much for sharing your story. As I sit here, reading and then re-reading your words Brett, I am compelled to make an observation.
I take it Brett, that you had concerns about David being comfortable speaking not only to the group, but then with the kids after the fireside. It certainly seemed back then that he might struggle simply because of his shyness. But something happened that night at that fireside chat. He patiently met every single person there, speaking to each one, taking pictures, signing autographs, sharing little tidbits of his own experiences, making sure everyone had been spoken to before leaving. Does this scenario remind anyone of anything? This experience prepared him for what would happen every night of the Idol Tour. Similar scenarios (ok, minus a gazillion gifts) and surprisingly, he handled it beautifully.
Everything happens for a reason and Brett, this night happened for more than just the troubled kids David spoke to. It helped David learn how to reach out and touch all his fans, one person at a time. HE works in wonderous ways….
Brett, thank you. I love the way you expressed,,, there was this (seemed like an hour) silence, probably for 10 seconds… and then David said “I’ll do it” I can almost hear David having a little conversation in his head. He is no reluctant Moses but a willing David to go where he is lead. This young man shames and uplifts me. How often have I chickened out after my inner conversations?
Rascal
I loved the Disney video you posted…so funny!!
Ok now I am going to start a new topic if that is alright…no one has to respond if they don’t want to. This is NOT about bashing anyone I just want to express how David has changed my way of thinking when it comes to music. I was listening to Cook’s new song called “Light On”, even though I am a die hard David fan. I told my friends I would listen to it and that I knew that it would be great, because afterall…HE WON AI!
Well…after listening to it several times I am just so amazed at David’s musical talent and how he has totally changed the way I perceive music now. I listened to it several times, not really thinking much else, just trying to be objective. After I heard it I automatically thought to myself….WHERES THE MEANING…WHERES THE FEELING I GET LIKE WHEN DAVID SINGS??? I understand what the song is about, but it was pointless to me. Just the usual everyday “normal” rock song. As I thought about it…Crush is a normal everyday song too…about the feelings you have when you first realize you love or care about someone more than just friends and wonder if they feel the same way…so what’s the difference? After thinking about it for a few minutes as I was writing this…it hit me! It really does not matter what David chooses to sing (even a typical pop song) he has the ability to take me to a new amazing place in each song and make me feel and understand what the song is about. He can still do this with even a normal pop song and I believe it’s all in his VOICE!! No matter what he sings he can still move people to hear and feel things that they normally do not…NOW THAT’S REAL POWER!! LOL!! IT’S ALL IN THE VOICE I SAY!!!
Brett, you are so blessed to have David in your life in such an intimate way. Thank you for letting us in. Most of David’s fans only know what we read or see on videos or TV, about David. Seeing David through your eyes, and the love you have for David and his family is so special to me..makes me feel closer to them. Thank you!
I have to tell you all what happened this morning! I have David’s “cover” photo on my computer as my screen saver here at work (& at home too). I walked away from my desk and a young twenty-something girl came in my office to give me a message..she happened to look at my computer and when I came back, she was staring at David’s pic..she asked me who it was, I said read the name..she said “THAT’s your boy, DAVID ARCHULETA?” I said “yup!”..She went out and pretty soon several other women came in to see the photo..so we waited for the screen saver to come up and all these women are just ooohing and ahhhing all over the place! ha ha! Some of my co-worker’s have seen some of my other sceen-saver pics I’ve had of David..but this pic has
really made these women do double-takes. A couple said “that cannot be the little kid on AI! I said “wanna bet?!” I buh-lieve I may have some NEW David Archuleta
fans…and they said they WILL be looking for his album! All just by looking & drooling over the photo!
See, that photo IS a “A WORK OF ART”!!
And also, CRUSH was the #1 requested song last night besting the JB’s! yoo-hoo!
Brett, thank you for posting “Be Still My Soul” on youTube and for sharing your story here.
This spring, listening to that clip every night before going to bed helped me get through a rough 3 months while my mother was in hospital. So many thanks to you and to David.
That video is sooooo funny! I’m sure I’m going to be laughing about it for some time to come!! When you see it that way you really do want to keep David away from Disney- LOL!
#71 -- I was just having that very conversation with my daughter on the way to school this morning. I WANT to like David Cook’s new song (he’s her favorite, go figure) but other than the catchy chorus there isn’t any feeling evoked from the song. I’m sure it will be big with his fans, but for me it just lacks that emotional connection that I ALWAYS get from David Archuleta. Then my daughter says, “Oh Mom, you always talk about how songs make you FEEL!!” That made me laugh so much!!
David Archuleta has reminded me that I have always connected to songs that made me FEEL -- and there is no song that David sings that doesn’t have an emotional impact on me. What a gift he has. I am a fan for life!!
silverfoxe! How’s it going! Thanks for sharing that story of the power of the screen saver. You’ve given me ideas for my own office computer!
Just wanted to share that this morning I had a dental appt at 8:00 am. While lying back to the sound of a drill, the sweet voice of David Archuleta singing “CRUSH” came over the overhead speakers. Like an angel his voice was there to comfort all those dreading those dental procedures. Made my day 100% better!
Lora -- I’m waiting for that day. I sat for three hours yesterday getting my hair back to it’s natural color (I’m not ready to go silver yet foxe) listening to some radio station that played everyone, including Eliot Yamin, but no David. I ranted to my nephew who owns the salon and he said they play Crush sometimes, but not often.
So rhetorical question for the day: How far does one’s ODD take one? Does one go to a corn maze shaped like David Archuleta when one has no children under the age of 17 or grandchildren?
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700261443,00.html
Brett, maybe we can go together
Speaking of that corn maze — David had a blurb on my local ABC affiliate early this morning. (I believe the channel is out of Kansas City, and since I live so close to Cook’s KC, I rarely hear anything Archuleta on the airwaves, so I came running from the kitchen.) The early morning news team briefly covered the corn maze story — the male anchor mispronounced his name and his female counterpoint quickly corrected him. It wasn’t much, but it was a mention, and it started my day quite well.
Moments later we spotted a deer in the neighborhood — also a rarity as our once-rural area is more and more developed. I think I may need to go buy a lottery ticket today.
(Hey, it’s the small things…)
#75 hello gorgeous!! Oh my yes…My screen saver is always a photo of David! I change it whenever I see a picture that takes my breath away, as most of them do! Decisions, decisions!! But the “cover” has really gotten the women, and a little while ago, a man too, all gushy and sweaty!! Ha ha! They just have no idea what they’ve been missing! And to think, I WAS LAUGHED AT by these same people because of MY ODD!! ha ha ha!
What goes around, comes around!! Ha ha!
Aren’t we just so lucky to have Brett posting here keeping us “close” to David? I am just so excited today..I get this way when I witness someone wanting to get to “know” David…and today there were several!! I
can sit and talk to them about David all day…course I can’t at work…but I told them to check out notingdavid, FOD, and of course You Tube!!!
#71 & 74… I also listened to Cook’s new single…it’s not bad..I tried to be as objective as I could..it will be a hit for Cook, I’m sure but If it get’s to #2 on Billboard, I will be very surprised. You never know though cause Cook has rabid fans like our David. I didn’t like it enough to buy it but that’s not to say I wouldn’t buy any other of Cook’s songs on his album. And in all honesty, I am so over the “competition” between the Davids. At this point, all I care about is how David is doing, personally and professionally!
I’m typing really fast so please forgive my spelling!! gotta get back to work!!
silverfoxe, blogging while you are supposed to be working is one of the main symptoms (and requirements I might add) of ODD. Way to go on the screensaver. I got my boss/friend interested when I posted a David tribute on facebook. She said “Who is that adorable young guy? How old is he? What rock have I been hiding under?” Needless to say we had a long conversation after that.
So, back to work . . .
Link posted at FanBlast. Spanish cover of Crush -- not sure who the artist is, but it is pretty good. (from MusikoPR08 based in Puerto Rico)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qk9Chf9wVVI
Hello all! I found this nifty piece of info (a friend comment) on David’s MySpace.
Hey, guys I went to this site where you could demand David Archuleta to perform in an area near you. There are 537 people demanding David compared to Jason Castro who has 16,000+. We MUST demand David and convince everyone you know to demand David. I already demanded him to come to Honolulu, Hawaii. Just click on the link below and and type in your area Let’s see how many fans will do this.
http://eventful.com/performers/david-archuleta-/P0-001-000112206-1
That was from “Saa’ruh”… thanks Saa’ruh!
Brett, thank you so much for sharing the fireside story. I can only imagine that the prospect of standing before a large crowd of kids and giving a substantial talk was an invitation to step outside his comfort zone, even after the AI competition and all the experience it afforded him. That he took it on willingly and with lilttle notice is just another example of his unfailing and generous spirit and his rock solid moral compass. GOSH.
My heart goes out to you with your struggles with MS, but you do amaze me! I always love it when I catch a Brett video snippet. (I’m a fan!) You, too, have a sparkling spirit and it warms my heart to know that David and his family are surrounded by such vibrant and genuine love and support. Go Big D!
Silverfoxe I love hearing the screen saver story— keep us posted! (And how’s your sister’s ODD coming along? Is the cover her office screen saver, too? lol) Hello Gorgeous Oh, goodie are you gonna do the CD Cover screen saver too? I look forward to stories!
beebee..funny you should ask about my sis..yes she is still “suffering”! ha ha!
Oh, and a lady here at work was so distraught cause she couldn’t access YouTube from her computer! I had to remind her it’s blocked and to wait til she gets home! then she came back and said she couldn’t find “notingdavid” either so I had to help her! Ha ha! I am going to get in soooo much trouble!! I Told her if her supervisor catches her, DO NOT BRING UP MY NAME, cause I will DENY everything..and to just show her David’s pic..that should be explanation enough! What fun today at work! ha ha!
I just love being “supremely silly” over David! ha ha!
Hi Everyone,
I hope you don’t mind me dropping in -- I love the family atmosphere here and enjoy reading Rascal’s articles as well as the comments and observations. I wanted to share a link to a VH1 page which I though you may enjoy purely for the video title.
“Leading Men: Fall 2008 These guys are the best in the business. Check out new videos from David Archuleta, Gavin Rossdale and more.”
http://www.vh1.com/video/browse/index.jhtml?id=1071&page=2
Don’t you just get that lovely feeling when you read David referred to as a leading man and being best in the business?
catherine…see, now why are you doing this to me?? I can’t access videos here at work!!! GAH!! I have to wait 3 whole miserable hours before I can see our LEADING MAN!! Have you no compassion?
There, I ranted at you but pay no attention to me..I’m a little “freaky”. Ask anyone!
( I have seen so many “lurkers now posters” in the last two or three POSTS by rascal..that’s the power of “word of mouth”…this is the place to be!!).
Hi Rascal,
I really like the direction you’ve been taking your site recently. I especially like the emphasis you’ve been placing on David’s character.
You said in reference to Disney stars, “… have had to resort to fairly extreme redirection–usually involving overt sexuality–in order to be taken seriously.”
Right on! I’m glad you’re taking a stand, implying that David should NOT venture into Disney because they would inevitably force him into “overt sexuality”. I couldn’t agree with you more, and I’m glad you are mentioning that this is not what David’s character is about.
You said, ” David may just simply be… well, too real.”
Perfect! You’ve singled out one of David’s most important character qualities, that of being “real”. Character is about being “real” in all situations and under all circumstances. David has certainly done that, and I appreciate you pointing that out.
I want to also say that I’m very pleased that on a site that is discussing David’s “artistry” you are talking about one of the most important qualities of this artist, his character. These two, David’s character and his artistry, compliment each other and some might rightly argue that David’s character drives his artistry. I think so.
You’ve discussed two character qualities, “sexual integrity” and being “real”, and how these are intricately tied to how David Archuleta should express his artistry. Great job!
Take Care,
Gallie
http://www.countingdavidscharacter.com
Take a time machine to January 1956, the beginning of a legendary artist’s career:
http://www.sergent.com.au/elvis/rca47-6420.jpg
This album cover remind you of anybody?
I think this one might work better. Bwwwaaaaahhhhh!
http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/6303/archiegangstady4.jpg
Gallie — Thanks for the comment. The direction of the site has never changed. It has always been and always will be a place where a wide array of discussions are prompted and welcomed regarding David’s work and his public persona (as I’ve said before, I believe it may be imprudent to suggest that we can talk intelligently about David’s character, it implies that we really know him; it’s on the line, for me, of getting into his personal life).
#85 Silverfoxe,
Didn’t mean to drive you nuts at work! The link only leads you to the Crush video. It really is the title which was the attention grabber for me. I wish the new album cover shot would replace the old one for the Crush single and video promo stuff.
The thread over at IdolForums about the new album cover is HILARIOUS and required reading for all Archie fans, especially around page 20 or so. This was my little ode to that thread. Let’s say David is one who brings out, say, the BEST in guys?
The album cover makes us swoon
Looks like Archie’s singing a different tune
Even twentysomethings won’t be immune
And a million desktops will be changing soon.
Hawtness sells, they always say
So other pop stars: be afraid
For what other artist can we say
That girls go gaga, guys go gay?
OK catherine..I feel better now.
caseydog..the similarity to Elvis’ pic is there, but the only other similaritis are that they are loved by millions of people the globe over and the legendary status that Elvis has and David will surely have. The difference and this is a huge difference is that Elvis let himself be manipulated by so many who claimed to have his best interests at heart and he was led down a dark path. He was weak. David is strong, in his faith and in character. He has a strong family who supports him. Not to mention that David is a composer, will most likely at some point be an actor ( yes, I can see that happening! ). Oh, there is one other similarity…they are both exceptionally beautiful men. I was fortunate to have seen BOTH up close…so I know first hand! Ha ha!
juliebug…NO, NO, NO! Ok, he still looks gorgeous…but a “gangsta-like” David…I don’t think so!! ha ha!
HA HA!
I know, Ronald. It’s so funny to me how one picture can cause so much consternation and celebration on the different sites
Maybe David is systematically separating the wheat from the chaff? If so, what’s he gonna do next? Can’t wait! heee!
Hi Rascal,
I only think a few really know David. Most of us fans have been tracking much of what he does the last 6 months, and I know that I’ve been focusing like a laser on his actions and words to better know his character. But, as you mention, we still have a limited picture.
That’s why I’m so glad to have first hand stories from people like Brett Hales and Dean Kaelin. They know David, for they have grown up with him and have seen him play around the dinner table.
I know that Brett is a good friend of Jeff Archuleta, and I’d bet they talk family and kid stuff, and so Brett probably knows some first hand stuff about David and his character that he hasn’t and shouldn’t share with us fans. It does, though, mean that when Brett speaks of David’s character, he’s doing so from an insider’s perspective, and so I’m glad he’s here and on “Counting David’s Character” to give us what we don’t have. Brett confirms loud and clear David’s strong character. Thank you Brett!
I am excited that you are willing to discuss it, too, and take to heart what Brett has posted here. It allows all of us to better know the person of David Archuleta, his character and his artistry…and what fan wouldn’t want that.
Take Care,
Gallie
http://www.countingdavidscharacter.com
silverfoxe -- *waves -- Love your screensaver story; I have Crush on my blackberry and at first no one recognized it; now, more and more people say is that “Crush.”
caseydog -- wow, interesting pic
juliebug -- lol, the Archugangsta look
ronaldsf -- it is hilarious and I am not 20-something but the 20-somethings are taking note; that pic says more than a thousand words and in multiple languages-lol
ronaldsf…love your little ode…I’m going to memorize it, put it to a melody & sing it around the office here. ha ha!
They’ll think I’ve lost my mind for sure! And since most of my friends here think it’s just a matter of time anyway (that I’ll lose my mind) may as well have fun!
beebee..I called my sis on my break and guess what? She DOES have a pic of David as her screen saver!! ha!
ronaldsf #91, you are toooo much! Love the “hawtness!”
LOL! ronaldsf! I hear your ode in a hip hop rappy beat… now I can’t get it out of my head! LOL! what a hoot!
silverfoxe… oh GOOD
Is she on the fence about the album cover or “on board?”.
Hey Silverfoxe, On behalf of everyone here I would like to welcome your sister to Archuworld. From now on her life will NEVER be the same. She’s taking her first baby steps but I know she will catch up to us quickly. Once you ‘get’ David and a taste of what he has to offer -- there’s no turning back.
#71 -- Inspired By David
I can’t begin to tell you just how similiar my reaction was to yours on hearing DC’s new single. For David’s sake I really wanted to like it and after listening a couple times -- I realized that nothing out there right now can even come close to the level of David’s velvet tone and delivery. His voice is like an “ear balm” -- LOL! First off, for me DC’s vocal quality jars my senses. It was a difficult listen no matter how objective I tried to be. Secondly, the song feels like an empty shell and I also realized that even if DC had sung it pitch perfect -- it would not have made a difference. David IS the one who makes a song come alive. One bad symptom of ODD is that from here on out it may become extremely difficult for me to listen to non-David music without making a comparison. Here’s one example -- PDSTM -- a simple enough song, compare David’s ONE line to the other participants -- NO CONTEST!
#94
I am pleased that you share the experiences of the stories from those intimately close with the Archuleta family.
I look forward to reading those stories from them on this blog and on the Counting Davids Character blog.
The nice thing about this is the beautiful balance of Artistry and Integrity and Character. Many of the devoted fans will be able to hear first hand what David really it.
Bravo Bravo Bravismo Rascal for all of the joy that your excellent writing brings to your readers, it is a joy to see that you have included the first hand stories of the likes of and very excellent man and a person I call Brother Brett Hale.
Hold on ladies and gentlemen you are in for a wonderful ride.
GO BIG R!, GO BIG B!, and last but definitely not least
GO — BIG — D!!!!
Inspired by David #71, I totally feel you. But remember that this is how many of us feel about listening to ANYBODY in the music scene out there -- all singing next to David A. feels “empty” by comparison. IMHO, David A. has surpassed John Lennon, Josh Groban, Elton John, and other legends with his vocal interpretations. It’s actually unfair to compare David with anyone in particular, because David is so in his own league. (I refer back to our Barbra discussions -- yes, he is a once-in-a-generation legendary kind of talent.)
highervibe #64, I love the anecdote about David’s mom! This should answer all the people who are worried this pose is “not him.” A mother saying “oh look at our boy”… is there any stronger confirmation than that?
Finally, this album excites me for the album to no end! If this is the approach of the cover, then the album is definitely not wall-to-wall pop ditties. It will deep, and rich. I can already see the media jumping on this bit of “news” that we’ve known all along: “a coming-of-age for the boy who sang Imagine on American Idol… Archuleta proves his detractors wrong with an album that shows glimmers of the musicianship and maturity he will bring to music for years to come.”
One correction, ronaldsf — I believe Lupe was reported to have said, “Oh, look at our David.”
She did not say “boy,” and I happen to think that’s important.
Thanks for the correction, rascal, and you’re right! *wonders how you edit posts in this thing*
I loved this post. The reason being that I was terrified at the thought of David being forced to go Disney for the sake of sales. Luckily, it doesn’t seem that way now. After seeing the cover, my concerns quickly vanished. I’m anticipating the album now more than ever.