Great Expectations
What Do We Want From David?
Photo: knitmi
“Fame, celebrity – it’s not such a big deal in Europe. People seem to understand that you just have a weird job. They’re not running after you, trying to carve chunks out of you. It’s strange in the States. Most fans here are great, but there’s a handful who have seen the movies and feel they know you. They think it’s alright to touch you and ask personal questions.”
— Johnny Depp
In the beginning, there was the voice … no, The Voice. Like the mythological Sirens’ song that lured sailors to their destruction, David Archuleta’s voice bewitched us into submission from the very first note and we were powerless to resist it. (Luckily, there were no cliffs to crash into, only Simon Cowell.)
And in the beginning that Voice was enough for us. We looked forward to hearing it week after week on A.I.; YouTube-ing and iTunes-ing it until digital reproduction left us wanting more. And we got more … the Idol Tour.
As the tour progressed, fan-encounter reports sent our expectations into overdrive. We wanted, no needed, to hear The Voice live, to see David in the flesh, maybe get an autograph, a picture, a hug. Give him a letter or a gift or a compliment and get a reaction, a smile, an “aww, thanks” or, better yet, an ArchuGaze.
When the single and the CD were released, the crowds grew bigger – and, sometimes, more intrusive. In one interview, David recounted going to the movies with his friends and being recognized by fans who wanted him to sign autographs and smile for pictures. He said he didn’t mind doing that when he was “working,” but he’d been with his friends. It seemed to surprise him that even the most devoted fans don’t always recognize the boundary between the public and private life of a celebrity. And where David was concerned, that line was about to get blurrier.
We so
on wanted to examine every public and private move of his to determine whether or not each fit with our idea of what was best for him. We wanted him to become a critically acclaimed superstar, yet not be lonely or miss out on graduating — to be on the cover of Rolling Stone and win Grammys, but get to go to his prom and have a normal teenage life.
We wanted him to be protected from those so demanding they ask for kisses on the cheek and piggyback rides, but yet remain available and accessible to us.
As we voted in endless online polls, stalked radio request lines and gifted countless CDs, our expectations grew about his career and his image.
We wanted him to “own” his star power, tour in grown-up venues, take a pass on kiddie TV roles and Teddy Bear songs, lose the “ballad boy” image … no, wait, sing more ballads … get a new label, new management, new marketing strategy. We began to want it all.
“I don’t think I realized that the cost of fame is that it’s open season on every moment of your life.” — Julia Roberts
And then there was Twitter.
David now has more than 144,372 followers on Twitter – me included. As soon as he replied to that first fan, we collectively screamed like the baby birds in the Twitter logo … “He’ll talk to us!”
Some spam him repeatedly for hours IN ALL CAPS begging for a reply. Even on his sick bed he felt it necessary to tweet “been trying to rest and haven’t been on the computer much today since I’m sick. Hope you guys understand! 
”
As if a scene from Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds would play out and thousands of frenzied tweeters would peck away at him if he went AWOL for one day. And then “thanks for your get better messages!!! You guys are too nice haha ”
To me, it was code for “For the love of Spongebob, give me some space haha ” Even Brooke had to reply to one of the fans to tell them “don’t be sad, he’s very busy and can’t reply to everyone.”
A clue to the motivation behind this Twitter mania lies in a message from a fan who’d just been replied to by David: “This is officially the happiest day of my life! Hah,” she tweeted. “Can’t get over it! 
… He definitely now knows that I exist!”
On some level, is that what we’re all seeking? And, if not, then what do we want from David? At first glance, it seems like an odd question. We want to hear him sing every song ever written. To be swept away in the rapture of his voice. To watch every thrilling stage of his burgeoning career. To witness his star rise around the world as people in every land discover his glorious brilliance. And that may be all we have the right to expect.
For as accessible and generous as David has been to date, the pressure of our collective expectations and the demands on his time and attention will inevitably wear him down. He will eventually need to step back, take stock, go off in a new direction or just take a break. And when he does, I hope he knows that we love him enough to let him fly and be free. To let him be.
So, what do you want from David?
“No matter how much fame you have, it’s not something that belongs to you. If I’m famous, that doesn’t belong to me — that belongs to you. If you can’t remember who I am, I’m no longer famous.” — Michael J. Fox
~ TOfan
ABOUT THIS AUTHOR
This is so timely, Tofan. We all want something -- of David, for David -- however we want to state it. And we all want to manage his career, his life, his clothing choices.
It does make me think that I should just let him live, enjoy him in whatever way he allows me to, and mind my own dang business about his career, his love life, and this plaids.
PS:
New Solo Date:
Time: August 17, 2009 from 8pm to 10pm
Location: The Intersection
City/Town: Grand Rapids, MI
What do I want for David?
Balance
Plain and simple.
I think if there’s anyone that can attain it.. he can. He has become increasingly aware of the pulse of his fan base. He instinctively knows where and how to set boundaries.
With the exception of a few here and there, I think for the most part .. his fan base recognizes his need for personal space and tries to give it to him.
When I see videos of him eating, sleeping, or photos of such .. it disturbs me in a way..because I feel like .. you know .. stop .. he gives SO much .. why can’t everyone be grateful for that? He gives WAY more .. and is FAR more accessible than just about anyone out there. He IS a fan’s dream. But if some fans, ruin it ..which will inevitably happen .. than David will be forced to change his ways .. and that will be a sad day for us all.
As for his career? I don’t have an opinion .. it’s up to him .. I used to think I wanted him to sell out the likes of Madison Square Garden as a headliner .. but have since changed my mind. I think Tribeca had something to do with that. I realized .. that the size of the venue.. or his ability to get spins on the radio .. was not how David measured success. I’ve discarded all my preconceived notions since then .. and have decided to follow his lead.
As for his clothing?
Sorry .. I can’t help you there. I’m fascinated and intrigued. To ME .. I think I see clothing choices .. as part of his transition from teen heart throb to grammy award winning male vocalist of the year.
Does it make me love him any more or any less? Does it make me gain or lose any confidence in him ? Of course not .. although the invisible children tshirt .. well .. that’s a love affair that will never die
I don’t know why so many of my perceptions have changed .. but I am keenly aware that they have. Just a gut feeling maybe? Blind faith ? I’m not sure .. but I do know .. beyond a shadow of a doubt .. that it’s all going to work out.. the way it’s meant to.. and I think from reading different things..in different places..that perhaps that’s how David feels about it as well.
He doesn’t know how long it’s gonna last .. so he’s gonna make the best of it .. each and every day.
In short .. I don’t want anything from him .. and all I really want FOR him .. is his happiness.
‘For as accessible and generous as David has been to date, the pressure of our collective expectations and the demands on his time and attention will inevitably wear him down. He will eventually need to step back, take stock, go off in a new direction or just take a break. ‘ Yup, but I sure hope it will just be a break, and not go off the direction from his music.
‘He doesn’t know how long it’s gonna last .. so he’s gonna make the best of it .. each and every day.’ We don’t know how long it will last neither. I am just glad that I can follow him digitally on youtube, and in person during concerts, while he is still at it. I’m gonna to make the best of it too, each and everyday.
Great article and question, TOfan. So, what do you want from David? TOfan. Well, I want to hear from David that he is happy, that his dream is worth pursuing. He does not have to say it. He can just show it.
What do I want FROM David?
Laughter. His. It is by far, for me, the most melodious sound he has ever made.
As long as he continues to have that hearty laugh of his, am at peace that all is good in his world, his music and his loved ones.
TOFan -- i heart you for posting this. It behooves us for a much timely pause. {{hugs}}
Hope you don’t mind an intermission: 1st vid to be posted from Viva LV thanks to justmellowdee
Interesting message from him:
“Just sharing the one video from tonight! I had 8th row seats thanks to my VIP package, but they let us move up to the very front barricade! It was amazing. Sorry that the beginning was cut off! David was AMAZING. “
Some more partial vids posted at the LAS VEGAS TOUR PAGE
Great post, TOfan! I’m up in the wee hours, waking up from an unmemorable dream (I do know it wasn’t about David).
What do I want from David? I want him to get the best support for his craft and deliver a kick-a$$ album that makes the most out of his impeccable vocal talent. After that, everything else will follow (stardom, superstardom, critical acclaim, whatever) or not.
As a fan, I don’t need him to reply to my tweets (well, I just got started), and I don’t need him to tell me that he’s sick (here’s a clue, David: you tell your 100,000+ fans that you’re sick, you create pandemonium).
I want him to keep making music and, hopefully, the kind that brings in tons of respect and admiration for his true genius.
Everything else is extra.
Having woke up to the discussion on the previous thread, I will say this about Praepos. It’s amazing that many of you were more offended that he called David “boring” (he’s entitled to his opinion, but that doesn’t make it true), but the real offense was his dismissal of David’s “screaming women” fans and the implication, as female fans, that we were gushing like “10 year olds.” While I’ll be the first to acknowledge that David brings out the “tween girl” in me and many of us, I’m surprised not enough of you nailed him to the wall for such chauvinism.
Praepos can’t pee in my cornflakes because he thinks David’s career is going down the drain (until I see hard evidence of this fact, it’s just an opinion, just as I’ve expressed unpopular opinions at times too), but he needs to drop the sexism with a quickness!
Call David’s songs boring, if you must, but don’t belittle us as female fans!
Speaking of physicality and fashion, that get-up is a hot mess! Sorry, SF, not feeling this outfit tonight.
Tofan -- love the way you make us take stock of our intentions. Off to listen to some DA as I do some soul searchin.
What do you want from David? I want nothing more than what David is willing to share. Whether it be his music, his laughter, his joy, and on occasion, his personal thoughts. David has a natural intuition when it comes to the realities of being famous in the 21st century. By David’s own account, he is doing what he loves most, it is not about fame and fortune, those things just go with the territory. The demands of his adoring public will always be there, and David does a great job of dealing with that heavy burden. He knows what to give and he knows what not to give. He is a unique young man who lives a very public life with genuineness and does so with grace and without pretense. I am confident that David is well equipped to handle anything that comes his way.
In his liner notes on the David Archuleta CD, David wrote this to his fans, “…Thank you for allowing me to go on this wild and crazy journey and for letting me share what I love to do with all of you. You keep reminding me why this is so important and what I love about it. I’ve appreciated hearing the amazing stories, reading the touching letters, and just being able to have been talking to you guys. You have accepted me for the way I am and I really appreciate it. Thank you for respecting me and for always having my back.”
When I read this for the first time in November of 2008, it brought a tear to my eye. It is the heartfelt words and feelings of a very special person. David’s thank you to his fans and supporters is evidence that David truly understands how we feel about him, and with his words and feelings, we know that David understands us. This explains the connection we all have David. Anyone who has had the great fortune to meet him knows that his appreciation for his fans and supporters is as strong as ever. It is all about mutual respect and admiration.
BJ -- and it still brings me happy tears. Thanks for re-posting David’s liner notes to fans
posted at snarkies:
“david came out after his vegas show tonight to meet with fans. he signed things and took pictures with folks. “
he gives sooo much of himself.
TOfan…your thoughts are good thoughts…I too am awake very early due to the geat humidity we are experiencing.
I also enjoy the late night/early morning comments to your post that are truly heartfelt and sincere.
I want from David, the patience to put up with us in every way that we, without just purpose, impose ourselves upon him.
Turning from what I want from David to what I want from ourselves, I want that we not look at every atom that makes up his physical being and character. It is time to simply celebrate his wonderful gift of music.
SB
Thanks for the thought-provoking article TOfan!
From the previous thread about the comments on that youtube video -- I’ll give you two guesses as to who said that about the earth’s rotation
What do I want from him? I want him to keep singing so I can listen. I think I want a lot more ‘for’ him than I want ‘from’ him.
Gotta think some more, and get ready for my little man’s 5th birthday party. Have a great day!
Tofan -- loved reading your article.
Dawn65 -- amen to everything you said.
TOfan, brilliant article and I also appreciated the quotes from other celebrities. Since the first moment David captured my attention, my mindset has changed countless times. I care about him more now, and thus I attempt to worry about him less.
He’s in charge. He’s never disappoints me. I believe now that it is my job, mostly, to enjoy.
TOfan -- great article.
What do I want for David? Just for him to continue to be happy doing what he LOVES doing -- SINGING any way he can, anywhere he can and to be appreciated for the MEGA TALENT that he is.
Hellogorgeous -- saw this video this morning and couldn’t help but think of you.
Here’s another LAS VEGAS video -- APOLOGIZE
Here is taped broadcast of ZG premiering at Radio Disney thanks HSMFan101VPC
Here is HSM’s account of the broadcast:
I caught the entire broadcast of the Radio Disney music mailbag at 2PM EST today, Saturday July 18th 2009, where they premiered David Archuleta’s brand new (well, according to them… haha it’s been out forever) song, “Zero Gravity”!
I took the entire hour long broadcast, and compressed all of the David Archuleta parts into an 8 minute video! It includes the song, plus all of the reactions of the listeners, and the final RESULTS of the pick it/kick it poll!
There’s this one lady that calls in, and talks about how David’s able to get the whole arena on their feet, and jumping around up and down, when he sings Zero Gravity at his concerts! Psh… Like we don’t already know that! Haha
And then there’s this one girl, named Arianna, that calls in, and KICKS it! She says that she loves David Archuleta and “Crush” and “I’m Not That Over You” (Uhh… Last time I checked, it was called “A LITTLE TOO NOT Over You” Get it right, girl… Ugh!) And, she said that the lyrics in Zero Gravity are LAME! Ugh… I hate this girl (no offense)! But, no one calls David Archuleta’s songs lame!
Honestly… I’m actually a little (or, should I say VERY?) disappointed with the end results… 87% picked it, but 13% kicked it! 13 is a pretty big percent… What’s wrong with people? That song is freakin’ AMAZING!
Oh well! If they don’t like David, that’s their loss and our gain! Haha
Anyway… It looks like Zero Gravity is pretty much a success with Radio Disney! Yay for David and Zero Gravity! Haha
Good morning everyone!
Pabuckie, awesome video! Thanks for sharing!
I love how David inspires such creativity amongst his fans.
BJ, thanks for reminding us of David’s thank-you to the fans:
“You have accepted me for the way I am and I really appreciate it.”
This definitely bears repeating!
Oy, our young Archies! In whose world is 13% a “pretty big percent”?! The important thing is that 87% of Radio Disney’s audience liked ZG!
Or, am I missing something?
FG -- was thinking of you the whole lot while watching LV’s Apologize (chuckles)
I saw this posted at IDF.It’s enchanting to see the young ones who “get” David’s music. The 4 yr old is silly at the start, but he gets into it at about 1:50. Enjoy!
Abrra
TOfan, I love your post. A mirror that forces the fanbase to examine itself.
I don’t have time to read all the comments right now, but I will eventually -- alas I am trapped in a dark pit of endless night.
The thing about Twitter is that David can turn it off -- he hasn’t had to (in the real sense of “had to”) reply to us. Still, he feels an obligation to do so. But on the other hand, part of him genuinely does want him to connect to his fans. For a celebrity, David is extraordinarily generous, and — for all the irrationality and high expectations that generates — it also means he has a fanbase that will fight for him until the end, and here at TDC we have an entire den of fierce mother hens who will look out for his welfare.
Sorry for the rambling -- I actually have more thoughts on this than I currently I have, but I must now do a practice essay on Constitutional Law. Sigh…
Oh, and one more thing:
http://ronaldsf.wordpress.com
David is supposedly hosting spongebob tonight on Nick .. trying to get more info now.
TOfan..GREAT POST!! What do I want from and for David??
Whatever he does, wherever he goes, I want David to be happy, healthy and SAFE always and forever. I have been posting these feelings almost EVERY SINGLE NIGHT in the form of a prayer for about 9-10 months now. It’s all there straight from my heart & mind.
I want David to never feel as if he OWES his fans anymore than what he is able to give. I don’t ever want David to lose himself or his sense of self by giving too much of himself just to keep US happy. I want him to KNOW I am here always, unconditionally, for him as a fan, to support him whether I agree with choices or decisions he makes or not. That’s what we do for the people we love. And I love David as if he were a part of my family. He truly knows how to save a life. He saved mine and made me love my life.
Which brings me to this..The problem I see with him being so accessible to us via cyberspace or in person is our expectations may be getting out of hand. We want to “hear” from him constantly. I am very guilty of this. I get nervous if we go a day without some word from David. We are all Internet junkies now, from morning til night, at home & at work, constantly looking for something, anything new about or from David. He feeds our addiction of him. Is it healthy? Only if we keep in mind, as he said once..it’s “one sided” are the words he used. That is always in the back of my mind. He may remember an individual, a name, a gift, or a conversation, and it’s exciting when he does. It makes us feel special. And as long as we remember we are FANS and not close friends in the literal sense, it’s all good. Life with David is good, better than good! It’s thrilling, euphoric, spellbinding, exciting, and at times exhausting. I wouldn’t, couldn’t if I tried, give it up for anything!
http://spongebob.nick.com/images/bash/printables/pdf/tv-schedule.pdf
TOfan -- Great post and a topic I’ve been mulling over myself lately.
It’s crazy how fans go to extremes just to be acknowledged in any way by David and that when it happens, how special they feel.
David has power. David is power. It’s alluring and magnetic and seductive.
I have VIP tickets to one of David’s solo concerts and have been trying to think of what I will say to him. It’s made me ponder exactly what it is that I am hoping for in return. I think everybody would love to walk away from meeting David with the feeling that they’ve made some type of exclusive and memorable connection with him but the reality is that it’s doubtful that will happen, at least on a personal level.
David has stated that people sometimes don’t realize how “one way” our relationship is with him. Thanks to his blogs, You Tube, Twitter (and TMZ ha!) we know a lot more about him as an individual than he will ever have the opportunity to learn about us.
It’s really quite a lopsided relationship when you think about it.
The question was, “So, what do you want from David?”
Realistically, that he continues to maintain his version of a “personalized” connection with his fans via his blogs, twitters, meet and greets, etc. as long as he is happy doing so.
Unrealistically, that he singles me out at the VIP as one of the most fascinating, remarkable and memorable human beings he’s ever met.
Is that too much to ask?
Spongebob? Oh, OK.
I’m giving my addiction a rest for today..hope everyone has a great day..
Temps in my city are way below normal…very weird! Just thought I would be random..like David.
See you all later!
Dawn
Since you have small children in the house, maybe you can monitor Spongebob for us? /evil grin
I am sure David’s segment will be up on YouTube later on today.
“Something is wrong……I don’t know.” David Archuleta
Abrra
My sister has a 5 yo kid who loves SpongeBob. So their TV is glued to the Nick channel and she was the one who told me about this bit, just didn’t think posting it here at TDC would be appreciated LOL. But since it has been mentioned…
David Cook, Kaiser Chiefs, Craig David, and David Archuleta greet SpongeBob
I can’t believe this -- Naree is still there! Her last show was supposed to be LA but she just posted ZG from LV:
Oh my… my friend is officially a goner, LOL
Oh shoots..off topic, before I go..I have to apologize to David for not getting his love of scarves..MY BAD!! Seems…
The hottest trend in summer cool might make you warm and toasty all over, thanks to San Francisco’s breezy and often foggy days.
The must-have accessory this July and August is the summer scarf, a light, gauzy, even rumpled piece of fabric meant to dress up a T-shirt, lend a little polish and give your “I’m on the go” look an artful edge. It is not to be confused with the businesswoman’s ornamental twill, or the drab winter scarf that feels formal, leaden and itchy against bare skin.
Celebrities of note have popped up in all the gossip rags sporting summer scarves, from New York to Miami to Los Angeles. The summer scarf can be worn with shorts, with jeans and even -- gasp -- at night with tuxedoes, by the adventurous. But here, we focus on the casual.
They’re available most everywhere: H&M, Club Monaco, Urban Outfitters and street vendors, on the low end, as well as from upscale designers such as John Varvatos, Dolce & Gabbana and Giorgio Armani.
Scarves have been around since man learned to weave, but the latest trend hit critical mass last summer with the young, trendy crowd that favored the kaffiyeh-inspired look. The check-patterned knockoffs migrated upward onto the runways, and then into fashion boutiques and chain stores with a bit of cool factor. This summer has seen more men picking up on the utility and cool factor of scarves.
The key to wearing accessories, of course, is attitude.
When it’s appropriate: Daytime, on the go. ” It goes with that thrown-together, put-together look.”
Age limit? “It’s one trend that can translate,” says Garza. “You can be young or more mature and still look cool.”
Who it’s for: Confident guys. “It definitely is a bit of an affectation. Only wear it if you’re comfortable, not if you’re going to be fussing with it.” Start with: A light, long scarf, skinny or full.
How to tie: Circle it around the neck and pull it away so the loop is not tight against the throat. Expose the V-neck of the shirt and a bit of the chest. Leave the ends loose, but uneven, for a tossed-on look. Or, take two long skinny scarves, place over neck and braid together, letting braid hang down the chest.
What to wear it with: “If you’re a guy who wears a white or black V-neck, you can throw it on, go into a restaurant and feel dressed in a place where maybe you should have a collar,” Lupo says. “At night, I’ll wear it with a loafer and jeans and a white shirt, inside the collar, not on the outside, in the same place you’d put a gold chain.”
When it’s appropriate: Around the clock.
What to wear it with: Jeans and monochromatic T-shirt. Adds a finishing touch under a windbreaker or leather jacket.
This article appeared on page N -- 1 of the San Francisco Chronicle
Please accept my apologies, David. Thanks.
Hello TDC peeps (been trying to get back up to speed on TDC past few days…impossssible task
…best to just jump back in!)
Great topic TOfan!…one that (as usual with you kindred spirits) has been on my mind often too, in terms of David…and most recently with sad passing of MJ, and all that his life in the “fame bubble” wrought (tho’ bless Rascal for highlighting the very valid differences with David.)
Dawn65…(I too) “have decided to follow his lead.”
“In short .. I don’t want anything from him .. and all I really want FOR him .. is his happiness.” (Amen.)
bj..1st para. …AMEN on all.
I reiterate one of my previous posts…I wish for David that in a business built on icons he is somehow able to continue to redefine his own unique brand of celebrity “as himself” and is able to continue to live a “real life” (however possible in the fame realm), as he so desires. I believe he will do his best to make that happen…and if it gets so out of balance…he will keep adjusting accordingly, or make other choices that suit him.
Even so…it’s quite a challenge for anyone. But, his beliefs and faith seem to guide and ground him…and that’s the prism through which he seems to see his life. Music is his passion…the rest, that needs to be “managed” as best one can, the illusion the press or rabid fans make up for their own needs.
About David’s innate instincts for setting the tone and tactfully, graciously, setting his personal boundries..
(…was actually going to write an article myself “Fame--That’s a weird word!”.. alas--scooped!
)…but…do you recall one of David’s first backstage Idol interviews when called a “sex symbol” he quickly cut the interviewer off, shaking his head and pointedly shot back…”NO,nooo…That’s a weird word!!) He did so with the directness and sense of self he’s continued to exhibit. He set the tone then, tactfully, but assertively guiding everyone as to where and where NOT to go with him. He’s right! That IS a weird way to see someone…to me it said then…I’m just David, let’s keep it that way! David never preaches his strong beliefs…he just lives them. And for those paying attention…you can pick up and respect his cues.
He also “invites” us all to rise above the usual brand of “fandom” with some of those cues…he’s always asking others things like “let me know what YOU’RE doing on your vacation” etc….the subtle message, to me…”have a life” beyond just adoring him. The Archman…always “keepin’ it real!!” I think the underlying hope may be…the more real he keeps people…the better chance at some sanity on both sides.
Again, I always come back to-- I trust David, his passion and gifts for music, and all that’s happening…even if I too might sometimes question marketing strategy etc, ultimately I know I don’t know either. Long as he seems good with it..I am too.
Nothing works perfectly in life, and I understand the possible pitfalls that are often addressed here …but I think it will be fine even if it’s not always “perfect” (whatever THAT is.)
I just think as much as David loves music, he may see his life in a bigger perspective…so he’s enjoying riding this out and doing the best he can with it. I’m enjoying watching his ride..and getting immensely entertained too!
My job, as a fan…keep it real…”have a life”, that includes my passion, (more than occasional O.D.D), utmost admiration, and constant respect for David the performer, his music and all it makes me feel and celebrate in this remarkable, fascinating young man. I’ll continue to follow where he leads, while wishing him blessings, safety, a happy heart and his dreams fulfilled.
I love you guys for being the thoughtful, tell-it-like-it-is folks that you are. Thanks for all your comments. I think I wrote the post in part to help answer the question for myself and because I looked forward to reading each of your takes on the topic.
peruu, my answer to the question? Joner’s is probably the closest to mine — both the realistic and the unrealistic one!
bj, #9, beautifully put, and thanks for reminding us of David’s liner note message. Sometimes I think he intuitively understands all this better than we do.
SF, your prayer might be for David but it does wonders for many of us too! (HG, I missed that discussion on the last thread, sounds like a doozy!)
TOfan--Sometimes I think he intuitively understands all this better than we do.
yep. me too.
amb4dja, please do write that post, you’ve made some great points! “I think the underlying hope may be, the more real he keeps people, the better chance at some sanity on both sides … My job, as a fan … keep it real.” Love that. I’m always struck by how David refers to his “job” … so grounded … and, yes, we would be wise to follow his lead and do the same.
And on a much more serious note. Like, where’s your avi, eh? Get thee to http://www.gravatar.com!
TOfan--Hahaaaa. So funny…was going to post….”my next job…finding that avi!” too funny.
THANK YOU…I obviously NEED the tech support!!
*** ps. since I’ve seen many a favorite pic of mine show up in others’ avis here…plz advise, what’s “protocol”..don’t repeat?? just askin’…
Have to move on to the rest of my day for now, but will do my best on the avi task at hand asap.
re: article…have so many that come & go in my head, as does the timing for them, as my “work habits” need to be focused better (working on it!) That said…if it doesn’t wind up just reiterating points here, I may write that just because it interests me, and if not redundant, will, of course, share.
Ok…off for now~back again soon, meantime, have a good day all!
Hi everyone!
First of all, thanks for all the videos and recaps. Looks like David was in great form at the Nokia. Thank you, Jesus!
I want David to:
1. record great music -- nothing is more important than the albums he puts out
2. keep going to shows and listening to good music- he has a lot to learn from other gifted, more mature performers like Sara B, Mraz, Meyer etc
3. get professional help as regargs what to wear -- a fashion designer -- and how to present himself on stage -- a drama coach or coreographer. These things are important! He is awesome, but he can always become more awesome!
Wishful thinking category:
4. date a different young star every couple of months
5. tell creepy fans who keep stalking him to back off -- you know the type, teens who want him to sign shoes and very mature ladies who present him with Archudictionaries containing terms like archuthighs and archugasm, and try to kiss him. Lord have mercy!
I want FOR David to:
1. always love music and never lose his Muse
2. talk to his God everything day and let Him search his heart
3. sleep at least 8 hours a day
4. resume his studies if he wants to- hi Julliard!
5. always find love and sincerity in the people around him
I want for this site to:
1. be loving but objective, too
2. remain respectful and welcoming of ALL Archangels and Archies
Is that fair enough? Hope so! Thanks TOfan!
Have a great Sunday!
Great post TOfan…cheers to you my fellow Canadian! bj and dawn, your comments are lovingly and beautifully written and I couldn’t agree with you both more. What I want FROM David is only what he is willing to give. He’s been exceedingly generous with everything he’s shared so far…his voice, his passion for music, his sense of humor..basically just being David.. and I’m grateful for whatever comes next. If David decides to pack it all in and chooses to sing only in private to his friends, I would be at peace with this if I knew he was absolutely happy. At some point over the last year, my fanaticism for ‘David, the amazing singer from AI’ morphed into a respect and love for ‘David, the amazing person’.
Because I live on the other side of the world, I’ve only had the pleasure of seeing David perform live once. I crossed the globe just to see him during the Idol Tour and as much I tried to make all the pieces fall in place this year, it seems unlikely that I’ll be able to make it concert this year. While I was gutted at first, and it still twinges a little when I think about how wonderful it would be to see him at a VIP and on stage when he is just throwing everything of himself into his performances, I’m also strangely okay knowing that he’s having the time of his life right now.
My friends who know about my David obsession, which is an absolute anomaly in my otherwise controlled, sensible life, have asked what I would do if I saw him somewhere in public. My instinctive response (and this is absolutely true) is..nothing. Well, nothing on the outside. Inside, I would be screaming, freaking out and thinking ‘OMG it’s David!’ but externally…I would leave the dear, gorgeous young man alone. I would stifle my crazed smile and avert my wild eyes and watch him from a distance for as long as I could without drawing attention to myself and let him have his peace and quiet. Maybe I’m deluded, but I guess I don’t want anything from David for MYSELF. Whatever he is willing to share with his fans, the public…it’s enough for me.
Of course, it’s my dream that David will be travel to my part of the world as a tourist, get lost and approach me on the street to ask me for directions and we end up going for a healthy smoothie together and we become lifelong friends.
lotus_b -- I smiled when I read what your reaction would be if you saw David in public, especially the part about watching him from afar for as long as you could. I would behave exactly the same way. If he walked past me I would probably just smile and wave and completely spaz out on the inside! LOL
I would never have the nerve to pull out my video camera and start filming him like some fans have done, that would make me feel so intrusive on his privacy. He has been surprisingly tolerant of fans doing that to him. I’ve wondered what his private thoughts are about these situations.
Wonderful, thought-provoking article TOfan.
So many great comments. I will simply add, when I hear David, see David, read David, think of David… I see color, lots of beautiful colors! (that dang aura) So, I want lots of beautiful colors for his life. Colorful places, people, food, clothes, and of course, music.
Yes I have thoughts, and ideas, and love everyone’s discussion of all aspects about our very vibrant main character, but at the end of the day, David is like art or a great book the touches my soul.
For those who had VIP, does it include PARKING at the venue?
HG: Amen on the chauvinism. I had to keep quiet last night because…well, you all know me.
But I will not change my fangirly ways, thank you very much, to give allowances to “and older male David fan.” Sheesh. And how do you know you are older, young man!
Um, okay, commenting on David’s hair -- I LOVE how it was messy and spiked in the Apologize video of Las Vegas. (Gushing).
HG, I believe you’ve mischaracterized what I said. Here is your take on it:
“Having woke up to the discussion on the previous thread, I will say this about Praepos. It’s amazing that many of you were more offended that he called David ‘boring’ (he’s entitled to his opinion, but that doesn’t make it true)”
In fact that wasn’t what I said. I never said David was boring. I said hearing the same songs over and over was boring. Huge difference.
Here again is what you said:
“but the real offense was his dismissal of David’s ‘screaming women’ fans and the implication, as female fans, that we were gushing like ’10 year olds.’”
But that wasn’t what I said. I said I liked to hear the screaming on youtube--since it’s a good measure of his popularity. I just don’t relish being surrounded by it in a concert.
My reference to posters acting like ten year olds had to do with the personal attacks and the piling-on that followed such remarks. I never linked those childish attacks to the “gushing” which I ascribed to the nature of female fanship. Men don’t gush over David’s looks or what he’s wearing. But that’s in the nature of the beast since most fansites are female-dominated at this point in his career. I can only hope more men get involved in his career--and that the various sites are more welcoming to another way of looking at him and his career.
You also said this:
“While I’ll be the first to acknowledge that David brings out the ‘tween girl’ in me and many of us, I’m surprised not enough of you nailed him to the wall for such chauvinism.”
Why is it chauvinism to state that people who pile-on to attack personally someone who disagrees with them are acting childishly? I would say the same for males who did the same-and have! On the contrary, you practice chauvinism in reverse by mischaracterizing what I said!
HG, you also said this:
“Praepos can’t pee in my cornflakes because he thinks David’s career is going down the drain (until I see hard evidence of this fact, it’s just an opinion, just as I’ve expressed unpopular opinions at times too), but he needs to drop the sexism with a quickness!”
But I never said David’s career is going down the drain. That’s totally false. I said the tour was a setback--which is a totally reasonable statement since I believe it’s a move toward Disney and away from mainstream adult music.
So once again you’ve mischaracterized what I said--just as you’ve mischaracterized my take on female fanship. It’s not at all sexist to suggest that females react differently to David than males do. They do, indeed, gush over his looks and clothes in a way that men wouldn’t. You yourself admit he brings out the “tween girl” in you. How is that comment any different from mine? It isn’t. It describes my point exactly--using different words.
What do I want for David?
It’s very simple.
He has music seeping out of his pores. So that is what I want for him. To keep doing what he loves. He’s given me a lifetime of happiness already. He really has. He deserves only happiness himself.
If he wants to write a song about wheat bread (see snarkies) then I want him to do that!
sidenote: I found out about The Intersection.
My sister used to live in GR. She said it’s a good sized bar in downtown Grand Rapids. Like Streeters if you know what that is.
Praepos -- WTF? This is a thread about our hopes and dreams for David.
btw -- my husband says the same thing about my listening to David’s songs over and over. “Don’t you get sick of it?”
But here’s the difference -- He would never barge in on a fansite and blast others for doing it.
He’s a bit too classy for that.
Dangit -- I swore I wouldn’t be drawn into this.
WTF? Yes, it’s a thread about hopes and dreams for David. So why has HG opened her comments on this thread with obvious mischaracterizations of what I posted yesterday on another thread? I didn’t bring this up--I’m reacting in self-defense. Let’s be fair about this. Direct your comments to HG if you don’t like the change of subject.
I’m glad to see you admit your husband shares my viewpoint. But maybe it would be healthier if he did “barge in” occasionally to lend a little balance around here. Right now there’s clearly a resentment of the male perspective, together with the assumption you imply--that anyone who expresses a minority opinion is not welcome. That’s too bad--since I thought these threads were open to all of David’s fans.
PLEASE DO NOT FEED IT
On my way to work but had to chime in on this one… Me-middle aged male (not older, just middle aged…in my mind anyway) and I can gush as much as the women next to me. Many of you have seen it! I also would bet in a big way that most of the males in David’s audience gush about his appearance both physically and in what he is wearing! Heck I even wore a plaid shirt to the LA gig! I know this comment is probably going to bring out another stereotype but I am very used to it. If not I’m sure it will be implied. No biggee…
What do I want from David? He is already bringing it in a big way. Hearing him sing in a quiet intimate environment is more than any one person could ever ask of him. You know, THE Voice.
TOfan -- What an amazingly thought-provoking and powerful post. It actually had me tearing up a bit as I read it. It’s like we fight these sometimes fierce battles about what we want for David -- personally and professionally and the timeline of when such events should occur. Thank you for reminding us that our journey into all things David is only one part of his career equation and our hopes and dreams can only be at best a wishlist. With that in mind here is my personal wishlist for him:
1) Acceptance in his heart that he doesn’t have to go out of his way to please everyone all the time. It’s all right to just say NO THANKS!
2) Realization that he has the power at anytime to take a stand regarding the direction of his career.
3) Development of a distinctive “Archuleta Sound” that will at times be bold enough to include a variety of music genres and languages from around the world.
4)Attending a music program at a college/university to provide the tools he will need to successfully create his “Archuleta Sound” -- arranging, composing, etc.
5)Continued reliance on his personal faith to help him cope with the stresses and demands of his burgeoning career.
Praepos -- Could you please use the opportunity provided by this timely post to share your hopes and dreams for David and/or his career? We are truly fatigued by the negativity generated from our attempts at dialogue with you concerning David. You are no more part of his management than we are and the so please let us hear your perspective clearly without rancor. Thank You.
TOfan: Very thought provoking post! Thank you for giving us the opportunity to explore our feelings.
- I wish David good health and happiness, for all the happiness he’s spread to the world.
- I want him to know how much joy and hope he gives us each and every day and that he really is changing the world, one fan at a time.
- I want him to be appreciated for all that he is.
- I want to hear his glorious voice forever.
Angelica: Please forgive my late reply to your very inspiring last post. You really know how to showcase David in your writing and more recently in your amazing videos. Your videos are addicting, the kind that one must get a dose of every day! Many of us are now chomping at the bit for your next masterpiece. Keep them coming. We love them, and I speak for the masses, as you know!
{{{vee}}} It was lovely meeting you over the phone last week and then again on dja’s cellphone from the Nokia show. So glad your dream came true and that you got to see David LIVE! Your love for him comes through loud and clear. What a testament to David that his fans are a class act! Have a safe trip home to Australia and I look forward to many more fun times with you!
SF: About never hearing David on the radio…I’m elated to report that I heard “Crush” three times last week! Yes, you read that right….3X!!; once when I was having my hair cut at the salon…I got goosebumps when I heard a very familiar voice serenading me. I wanted to scream out to the whole salon: “DO YOU KNOW WHO THIS IS? GO OUT NOW AND BUY HIS CD. RIGHT NOW!” Heh! But I realized how that would have sounded. I heard that same familiar voice a few nights later in the supermarket, still singing about his “Crush”. Then I heard it again on my very own car radio a few days later! So, yes, yes, yes, they are still playing “Crush” on New York radio!!!
{{{vee}}} It was lovely meeting you over the phone last week and then again on dja’s cellphone from the Nokia show. So glad your dream came true and that you got to see David LIVE! Your love for him comes through loud and clear. What a testament to David that his fans are a class act! Have a safe trip home to Australia and I look forward to many more fun times with you!
And last but surely not least, the “One” campaign lives on. We now have almost 60 comments but am hoping for some more before releasing our letters to David on this tour. Please get your letters in, as a favor to fans who love the song, even if the song isn’t one of your top favorites. We need the help and support of as many fans as possible to make our wish come true. Link provided below:
http://campaignforone.wordpress.com/
Marlie7 #1, Where did you find that info? Where can I get tickets? I tried Ticketmaster. Not showing-up there yet..
Thanks!
Ha! Don’t mind me. I repeated paragraph 4, didn’t I? I’ll learn how to copy and paste, one day.
Bebe -- Thanks for the info about ONE. I was wondering if the requests were presented as yet.
Great post TOfan!
From David, I want to regularly hear from him. I know it’s selfish but it’s the truth.
As for wishful thinking, I’m w/Valbraz #37 on the inappropriate stalking and gift giving … some fans need to back off.
Richard just tweeted this pix; he’s in another country:
Richard, Kurt B, Jeff & some other person
http://twitpic.com/ax3hc
In #56, I sent the wrong link.
http://twitpic.com/ax317
desertrat
In this picture,does the man to J A’s right look like one of the Jive executives that appeared in the Gold Record presentation? I can’t find it, but there was a picture of them all with name credits.
http://twitpic.com/ax317
Abrra
praepos, I missed out on last night’s antics so I can’t comment on that, but I appreciate all the guys who are brave enough to post here and I hope you continue to do so.
Bebereader, so would you add “please sing One” to your list of what you want from David?
I must say that I am jealous Praepos!! TDC has been EXTREMELY patient with you…..count your blessings!!
I WOULD like to commend (sp?) all you TDCers. You have shown Praepos ALOT more respect than he gets on any other site. I believe that you would give him a warm and welcome home here if he could just tone it down a bit.
Like I said…I am jealous,but in a good way.
You are nice people here.
Bless you all (and I mean that!!)
BTW: Is Admin on vacation?? lol
Abrra #58, jive photo for gold album. i don’t believe any of the jive execs are in the twitpic.
http://archuletafanscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/jive.jpg
Ok I thought it may be the same man that was standing behind David in the gold album picture.
Thanks!
Abrra
joymus, ultimately I want for him what everybody else here wants--his personal happiness in his chosen profession. But I differ from most here in that I believe right now he’s bogged down in the present tour, repeating himself endlessly, forced to once again create albums on the fly. It’s true he’s learning a lot about performing--but it’s not the optimal condition for producing excellence on a sophomore album. He needs time to think, to experiment, to innovate and refine. This year has been a whirlwind for him. Right after the solo tour came the UK and after the UK came the Asia gigs and after that came the Disney tour. He needs time to take stock and contemplate where he wants to go with his music in the future.
Praepos, I am also an “older” male fan of David. There aren’t that many of us around, certainly not posting on fansites such as this. I have posted many times on this site and the two previous sites that evolved into this one.
I will be brief. This is an “our way or the highway” site. Any point of view or opinion that is not in lock step with the philosophy of this site is subject to the treatment you have received. I have gotten the treatment you are getting a number of times when I dared express an opinion or observation that strayed from the conventional wisdom. Balance is not part of that wisdom, and is not welcome here. Other points are view are seen as “negativity” and are dismissed, along with the poster.
Although I disagree with your opinion that this current tour is not helping to further David’s career, I respect your absolute right to have that opinion, and do not think you are “negative” about David in any way.
To TPTB of this site, I would say that if you want to encourage lively and intelligent debate about David as he matures as both an artist and a man, you should not discourage intelligent folks from feeling that they are welcome to share their views.
jello--it always amazes me that posters like you can take potshots at others--and then claim THEY’RE the source of negativity if they defend themselves.
bliskasdan, thanks for the supportive comments. Good to know I’m not alone around here.
David should just be happy. He seemed content in his life when I saw him at the concert. David doesn’t have much of a filter. When he’s not happy, it would probably be pretty obvious. He is happiest singing music. We are happiest listening to him sing. Ah, what a lovely circle.
praepos -- David is not well known enough to take a year or two off to work on his 2nd album. He has to be out there touring etc -- keeping his name out there.
Praepos = Thank You
That point of view was expressed clearly and well said. I am not sure how necessary this present tour was because only David and his management/label can answer that question. However, I absolutely agree with you that as painful as it would be not to see or hear from David (to be honest my heart would break -lol!), or limited to tastefully selected appearances, it would be nice for him to take some time to regroup, experiment and strategize just how best to accomplish a more complete 2nd album effort. It falls somewhat in line with my own wishes for his musical direction.
Oh boy….I guess this is the perfect time to stop lurking….
What I want for David is for him to be David. Whatever that is. I want him to have a life beyond endless concerts and tours. I want him to make the kind of music he wants. To continue to grow and mature at his pace and not be criticised for doing so. I want the fans to stfu sometimes and just let things be. We arent in control, David is. And for some odd reason, I am just fine with that.
I understand that there are people that are unhappy with this tour, but how many effing times can we say if before it becomes redundant. Guess what, all tours are repetitive, especially when you are first starting out and don’t have alot of original music to fall back on. The difference is we watch every freaking thing. If you are bored, stop watching for a while. Read a good long book, mow the lawn, play with your kids/grandkids. David has a job to do, and if he skipped out on it now, he would probably be sued. What do you want David to do Praepos? You’ve said the Demi tour was a bad idea. Some agreed, some did not, now what? Once you’ve said something once, twice, three times, when does it become tiresome for the people reading it, ad infinitum? I really have to skip over those posts sometimes because it just seems to be trying to get some kind of response, but to what end? Sorry for the rant, I don’t mind a bit of subversion, I find myself out of step alot of times, but I refuse to harp on the same issue all of the time. He’s doing the tour. End of story.
Jello,
You are correct in saying that TDC has actually been kinder to Praepos than some others. I’ve recently experienced that first hand reading another blog. Seems Praepos opinions are discussed in a negative light, much as Rascals are. Both of them handle their own quite well, though. That’s all I want to say on the subject..back to lurkdom.
And how many “effing” times must we hear about david’s shirt or his scarf or how cute he is? Some of you want too much control over what’s allowable and what isn’t. You don’t find your own repetitions bothersome--only those which you disagree with.
As for my reception on other sites--it is what you might expect. If one criticizes Adam on mjsblog, for instance, one expects the kind of flak I got. The same people were quite tolerant of slams against David. All that comes with the territory I suppose. But I expected more tolerance from more mature fans.
bliss, I am confused how there could be “our way or the highway” with a group as opinionated and diverse as we have here. The only “rules” at TDC are to be respectful of one another and of David, and to debate the idea rather than put down the person. Bliss (and anyone else who follows these simple rules) -- your opinions and ideas are always welcome here.
I’ve thought long and hard about what I, as a fan want from David since reading this wonderfully written, thoughtful post. Thank you TOfan.
It’s hard to say. I know what I want for him. That’s easy. I want him to be happy and successful in any way he defines success. Probably not what we have in mind at all. I think he just wants to continue being the genuine, loving, person he’s always been, producing the very best music he is capable of. Whether he winds up playing to large arenas or small intimate venues, I think all that matters to him is that people enjoy what he does and feel something of what he wants to convey. That is why he is doing it. For the connection, and then everything, all the hard work, is worth it.
What I want from him is harder to define. I want to keep listening to his music and follow his career, in whatever meandering, stumbling path it takes, because that is the path all artists take on the way to their dream. He will pay dues along the way and make corrections as needed. I am supremely confident that it will work for him. I’m not worried about one tour, one album, one bad review, or whether he comes out on top of the latest poll. I prefer to take the long, patient view, and from where I sit, it is a really long view indeed. He is only 18. This journey will take decades.
What else do I want from him? I’d like to just once, make him laugh.
praepos -- Here’s a thought: why don’t you collect your thoughts and submit an idea for an article or a Short Take? You can send information through the Contact page. Think about it.
and BTW, a comment that includes the words: “posters like you” feels disrespectful, rather than informative. Again, debate the idea please.
What do I want from David? Longevity.
Okie-dokie…55 year old male caucasian non-denominational Christain father of two career professionals married 36 years here with somethin’ to say on the hubbub swirling about praepos…dang, lost my train of thought…what were we talking about…freaking senior moments…
bigsky: LOL!
Angelica..not braggin’ or anything, but I can tell you first hand that making David laugh is the best feeling in the world. I made this itty-bitty short video at the Evansville Barricades last year. At that time I still couldn’t bring myself to “touch” him or ask to have a pic with him. But David was in such a great mood that day, making him laugh came easy and dang if it seemed like he didn’t want to go in when the security guard came out for him..sweet memories **sigh** Unfortunately, I didn’t tape the part when I told him “Hi David!”…
I’m a Bronx guy, so I don’t mind mixing it up with people about a wide range of issues. I spent my childhood arguing about who was better, Willie Mays or Mickey Mantle. 1968 was a year where everybody had an opinion about everything in the world. David has become the new Viet Nam (LOL) It’s “My David, right or wrong.”
Liz, the problem here is that although differences of opinion are expressed here, only certain ones are “accepted”. We’re not supposed to get “personal”, yet David’s personal appearance is analyzed and ogled over with no limit placed on it.
Praepos is absolutely right when he mentions that discussions here go on ad nausem about David’s choice of clothing, hair style du jour, and any other “personal” and, I might add, sensual (i.e lips, nostrils, sweat, etc), aspect of David’s “talent”. Why does Praepos’ discussion of David’s tour get the hook after a couple of posts?
There is definitely a hierarchy of “acceptable topics” on this site, with “Archu-thighs” having Most Favored Nation status.
# 72 Praepos
Thanks for your unwavering willingness to debate and stand your ground whereas some of us would shy away or go poof. And that was pretty funny, too. Repetitiveness is a bitch! Lol!
# 77 Bigsky
Now that was hilarious! Please come back when you remember!
bliss, I don’t have a sense that some topics are accepted and others are not. People either comment or they don’t. If a lot of people respond, then that’s the topic. If no one responds, then we move on. No one here in admin is restraining discussion. The only exception to that would be breaking the rules that I mentioned earlier. If a commenter doesn’t like the topic, you can always change it
You commenters actually have a lot of power here haha!
Just updated our LAS VEGAS TOUR PAGE -- except for ALTNOY, I have taken out the partial vids. For now we have full vids of TMH, My Hands, You Can, WFM!, Apologize & Zero Gravity.
It is a Monday here and am about to leave for work
So see you in a while.
I leave you with this nice vid of YOU CAN. Watch out for the guy who is singing along with David! He knows every word to this song -- and they say David is only for the tweenies -- haha
CYL!
Change of topic -- back to the article.
What do I want from David? Thanks for the great article, TOfan and the excellent question.
I don’t know about the rest of you, but my answer to that question has changed over time. There was a time when I passionately craved meeting David and talking with him. There was a time when I wanted him to know who I was. I had fantasies of being his friend and having dinner together or just hanging out for an afternoon. Lovely fantasies! I’ve said this before, but because of my shifting attitude about being a fan and about how I feel about David, I have great patience and empathy with the wide variety of experiences that we share here at TDC.
These days I am quite content to see him perform and get lost in his music. If the venue is small and intimate, so much the better, but I simply want to hear him sing. If he never twittered or blogged or vlogged, that would be fine with me. It would be enough for me to read the occasional news or magazine article to get more details of where his career was going. But… do I read every blog and twitter and watch every vlog? Of course I do haha! It is there and I will take advantage. But from what I can surmise, David is a young man who knows where he is going. If he is twittering several times a day, then I have to believe that he is getting something back that is enjoyable for him. Bottom line – I will trust David to set his own limits on what he offers to the fans.
A break from all the FUN?!
After I spoke against stalking in #56, to me, it’s fair game to stalk those who have worked w/David.
Ted Hinckley is the mystery man in Richard’s pic; it that was taken in Prague, Czech Rep: http://twitpic.com/ax317
Read more about Ted & his music connection to Prague:
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/705304483/Utahn-wants-families-to-enjoy-music.html
Perhaps this trip has to do w/David’s Christmas album.
?
httpv://www.youtube.com/v/7YMjp2GGfiQ
lotus_b #38, cheers to you too! I hope you get to another show soon. Maybe whenever David tours Canada (which is definitely one of my “wants”! lol)
bigsky, LOL, on the edge of my seat here!
jr4da, I noticed the sing-along guy in that vid, too! (And a few more at the front who knew every word.)
dfLIZ, I agree with trusting David to set his own limits on what he offers to fans, but I do think he errs on the side of giving more (as opposed to putting his own needs first) … perhaps a good lesson.
Desertrat --
You are without doubt a trivia-gatherer extraordinaire! You just come in quietly and leave us choice tidbits -- lol!. I was trying to identify the European country in the pics but could not place the language. Thanks for always keeping us current.
Hey guys! Just checking back in briefly after a long leisurely Sunday. So much seems to have transpired!
First, Praepos, if I misconstrued what you said as sexist, then I apologize. However, there is still a certain tone taken that makes me question how the criticism leveled against certain posters might reflect this.
Having said that, I must say that I’m not hearing so much an attitude of “our way or the highway” as expressed by Bliss, as it is fatigue. There is absolutely nothing any of us can do to intervene and get David to quit this Demi Lovato tour. We’ve heard the countless arguments -- before the tour started and after the tour started -- about why it was a bad idea. It’s still taking place, so why beat a dead horse? That’s what I’m hearing. Not censureship -- and trust me when I tell you there is a difference because we’ve had that experience of what was permissible to discuss and what wasn’t, and this particular topic is not one of them.
You want to criticize the tour? Fine! Go ahead. But, don’t be surprised at the collective yawns that are directed your way or even a bit of hostility. It’s a done deal, and it’s tiresome to keep harping on it.
Now, sure, some of us might also argue that it’s tiresome to talk about his fashion choices or his thighs, and I will agree that, as a site, we should think about what our discussions bring to the table. And, whether or not we are comfortable with good debate. I myself love debates, but the subject needs to bring something new to the table.
There is nothing new to explore about David’s involvement with this Disney tour (now, there is always something new to discover in David’s looks, but this too can be tiresome, so point taken).
ohhhhh, I’m going to get in so much trouble here, but the photo of Jeff made me want to barf. I am not and most probably will never be interested in what he’s doing and where he is. I really don’t care why he’s in Prague with Richard & Kurt, even if it’s for something regarding David’s Christmas album, which I hope it’s not..I would just rather not see photos of him. Sorry if that offends anyone here. I imagine this is not the first time I have offended but it is what it is and that is how I feel. I wish I could be more like David, but even HE does not mention Jeff. Jus sayin’
I’ll be back later unless I get banned…
Just took a minute to skim some of the recent debate.
If there are thoughts or concerns about anything, definitely bring them up. Things get thorny, though, when we start (1) marking off a topic as unwelcome or (2) start to argue generally that some topics are emphasized more than others. Because then we start arguing about arguing. Does that make any sense?
At the same time, the internet is its own creature, and we should be cognizant about questions of tone and the effects of our words. Disagreement and debate are welcome, and there have been some memorable, worthwhile ones here. But it’s not all about correctness or what’s right or wrong -- we should also take care to make all members of the David fan community feel, well, at home.
Now, in defense of thighs.
No one at TDC would disagree that we shouldn’t talk only about thighs. Still, one shouldn’t characterize TDC as a thigh-fest -- it tends to make others feel defensive about, well, spazzing. This is a fan site.
And perhaps I’m in the minority here, but I think we should have more of the tweens and teens in here spazzing and lending us their energy, while benefiting from and responding to all the great articles here. I love intellectual debate as much as the next brotha, but thighs are valid, too.
Love and peace
Oh, and apparently I didn’t make clear last time, that there is a new post on my blog. Still no comments, and still feel lonely there
http://ronaldsf.wordpress.com
Twitpic … never has a product been more aptly named.
Goodnight all!
SF, no arguments from me. In fact, I’m a bit unnerved that Jeff feels perfectly at ease showing his mug again. Just when I was getting used to his fading into the background (and from memory).
Thighs and intellectual debate sounds good to me, Ronaldsf.
TOfan …. NICEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
And just for the record .. HG, SF AND myself have all had our collective @sses handed to us for sounding negative or redundant.
JUST sayin
Thanks for the great post TOfan. I’m a fan in every sense of the word, so it caused me to reflect on the past year.
Many fans (myself included) feel a strange sense of ownership over David. Remember how jealous we got when he went to Asia and the UK? The fan sites were peppered with comments like, ‘take care of him for us’; and ‘I’ll feel better when he’s back on home soil’. Those words echoed with a sense of desperation and longing.
I sometimes get the feeling that being a fan of David’s means entering into a competition – one where the winner has the best David story. And the more intimate and poignant, the better. Why do we ask him for hugs when we know how he guards his personal space? Why do we push and shove other fans so we can be closer to him, then, when we get that coveted picture or conversation caught on video we write about it like an innocent happenstance?
What do we want from David? I believe we want him to want us. Because there is nothing more hollow than unrequited love.
OH WOW Sunshine …
Standing Ovation…
Afternoon/Evening to all,
TOfan, your post made me sit down and really think about what I want from David. Why do I follow him so closely? Why did I need to meet him at least once?
I will start with what I want For David (easy):
I want for him to do what he loves to do for as long as he wants to do it.
Now what I want from David (not so easy):
1. I want David to always remain true to his faith (I don’t necessarily mean his church’s doctrin) and himself.
2. I want David to complete his education.
3. I want get a new David Archuleta album every two years or so for the rest of my life.
4. I want to be able to hear David sing live several times a year.
5. I want to hear David sing Desperate in an intimate venue like that New York place (Richards?).
I wanted to meet David to personally let him know that I appreciate his music and his character. At the Fresno VIP, I gave him a thank you card that applauds when you open it and I also wrote some words of encouragement. When I first purchased the tix for the vip, I thought that if I got to ask him a question, I would ask if he had he made any progess towards completing school. Well I did get to ask him a question, and I am soo glad I didn’t ask that one. It think that would have been me trying to impose what I wanted on him.
Bebereader #52, thanks for the update on ‘One’. I read that David was asking for suggests on acoustic songs for his solo shows, ‘One’ seems like it would be perfect.
Someone up thread ask about VIP parking, it was included in the Frenso package.
Praepos, Bliss, I don’t think it’s so much what is said but who’s saying it. At least you do get a response. But having said that, I have to admit that I get frustrated with your posts because I see no viable solution offered. I see the tour as a done deal. No, I will not boycott David (that is how I see not attending this summer concert) partly to show him support, and partly because I love hearing/seeing him live (selfish, I know):). I wanted to respond to your comments on the other thread last night but my 20 yo daughter and 14 yo niece wanted to put on David’s music. Can you imagine that? Young people wanting to hear those “boring” songs even after we just heard him sing them in Fresno, San Jose, and Sacramento. Go figure!
Missing Kizzi 8(
Hey I am all for debate, but there is a difference between debate and just spewing negativity. I love a good debate and I can sometimes fall against the grain as I have a time or two both here and at ND as well. I don’t worry about not always being in agreeance as I don’t think that there has ever been a consensus about everything here at TDC. I just think there is a way to disagree and a way to go against the grain without rankling feathers, I think that is where I am confused about what Praepos is trying to accomplish. Tone is everything and sometimes I think he is just trying to be discordant. That’s just IMHO. Now that I’ve said it, I will just stfu, as not to be redundant.
missed you dawn .. I feel lonely without you
Kudos to both Sunshine (so well said and so very true, I think!) and Brooklyndawn.
gbw … one CD every two years? you made me gasp .. hahahaha
Maybe we should have the NEXT thread ..to be what we expect from OURSELVES.. and how to learn how to meet our own expectations when it comes to David.
Now may be a good time to start a 12 step program .. cause my gut is telling me after Alaska.. he may have some down time.
GREAT for him.. happy for him.. but scared for me .. what will I doooooooooooooooooooo ?
dawn65, how often would be reasonable?
Sunshine,
I think you got something there.
TOfan, loved your post. Love your yin and yang way of demonstrating our wants for David to have it all, professionally and personally, even when it is contradictory. We would all give him the moon and the stars if we could.
Want from David -- I hope he NEVER stops making music, atleast in my lifetime, and I will be gone waaaay before him!
Want for David -- True love, happiness and fulfillment.
brooklyndawn, in agreement with everything you have said today.
goboywonder, missing kizzi too. Hope she visits soon.
Sunshine..You sound like my sis! But David does “want” us. He wants us to love and feel his music. He wants us to come to his concerts. He wants us to read his blogs. He wants us to follow him on twitter. He wants us to buy his albums. He wants for us what we want for him..to be happy. Remember when he went to Malaysia? The reception he received at the airport. He loved it. He said it was exciting. He said that never happens here. I don’t think he minds it when he is recognized and approached at this point in his career, depending on the situation. I think he is aware it all goes with his profession, his celebrity. We are fans, and without fans, there would be no celebrities or Stars. He wants us to be his fans. For any celebrity or star, when they no longer have fans, they may as well hang it up. David wants us almost as much as we want him. Unless you are talking about something else…Unrequited love? I think the love we feel for David is returned to us tenfold every time he steps on the stage. IMO, as always.
David does know how to step back to have some breathing room though..like today, for instance.
Good night everyone. For David…
Good night and for David..
Dear Lord,
Please take care of David. Watch over him, protect him from all harm. Cloak him with your love and give him the strength to endure all that is thrown in his path. Give David the courage and guidance to say no to those who ask for more than he can reasonably give. Surround David with loving and supportive people who love him unconditionally as we, his devoted Archangels do. Separate David from those who have agendas other than for his well being. Give him rest when he’s weary. Give him the stamina to sustain his hectic pace. Give him assurance when he feels doubt. Give him joy when he feels sad. Cloak him always in your protective arms during this time on his journey. Keep David and and his voice healthy & strong as he fulfills his Destiny which was written in his Book of Life before he was born. And please Lord, give us, David’s forever fans, the wisdom to know when and how to do right by David. Open our eyes and help us in the way we support David so that it’s always in his best interests. May his positive and good Karma continue to attract those with positive and good Karma! May he continue to encounter goodwill and happiness! May he continue to be healthy and strong during this time in the summer tour with Demi. Keep David and his companions safe as they journey across this land of ours. Though we may be unworthy, we humbly pray. Amen
David, hope you have a good night’s sleep & sweet dreams on the road. Keep with you all our love, prayers and warm thoughts! We will always love you madly! If you are ever in need of help, tweet us an SOS and your Archangels will be there in a flash!
Contigo siempre con amor!
SF -- I think so too, he loves the love. And he loves connecting with people; it is evident in everything that he does, from his singing and performing to his interaction with fans.
Sunshine -- I think you make a great point about the competition aspect, and not only between fans but fansites.
HG, you are not being fair when you intimate I’m beating a dead horse. Yesterday I posted a single post about the tour. The rest were actually in rebuttal to those who opposed by view, the longest one an explication of why soundscene’s argument--cited by another poster--made no sense to me at all. It might have been the start of a fruitful intellectual discussion since I argued a perspective hardly ever given consideration anywhere. Instead the subsequent posts devolved into personal attacks. No one thought to post why they disagreed, only that what I was saying was for some reason off-limits.
brooklyndawn, it seems to me the one “spewing negativity” around here is yourself when you mischaracterize an opinion out of sync with your own. You object to “rankling feathers”--yet that’s precisely what you do. You say tone is everything--yet your own tone is aggressive, far beyond than anything I would attempt. For instance, I don’t normally use terms like “wtf” “effing” “spewing”--all loaded pejoratives. If I do, it’s only to give back what I’m receiving. Think about it.
Liz, I will give consideration to your invitation to present my point of view. I DO think men look on David more coolly, with more ambiguity--which is to be expected. I’ll try to articulate this either in future posts, if the opportunity presents itself, or in a separate essay.
n.b.--when I say men look on David with more ambiguity, that’s not to suggest they are lesser fans or find him wanting in some way. I meant this in the sense that it’s more difficult for men to get him in focus, that the inherent contradictions between his everyday persona and his performances are more difficult for them to reconcile. For example, last year when David came out swinging during Top 2 night, it was obvious to me at least that he was showing considerable aggressiveness. Cook himself characterized David’s performances as “feisty”--something out of sync with his passive, gentle persona--just as contradictory as the deep-rooted angst behind songs like Apologize or Desperate, so out of keeping with his usual cheery self. Not that women don’t perceive these inconsistencies, but their focus is more on his looks than the personality behind them.
I have always been more of a listener than a talker, so maybe it follows that I’m more of a reader than a writer. I read everything here, but very rarely post. Thank you to those who do, and do it so well. I enjoy your thought-provoking articles, your illuminating insights, and your cut-loose, hysterically funny I-just-gotta-say-it threads.
I am also posting because I had my first opportunity to meet David at the VIP session in Las Vegas. I have read (and learned) from many of you who have written about these sessions, so I had to de-lurk just to say that it was everything you described it to be, and then some. This is long, but please bear with me. I simply have to share a little:
* The first thing David said after greeting us was, “So, what’s on the refreshment table?” He wanted to hear about the food in detail. That’s when he launched into his white bread vs.wheat bread ramble that you have read about elsewhere. He had us in stitches.
* David asked whether we wanted to hear “Heaven” or “Crazy” first. Someone answered by suggesting “Imagine.” David said he couldn’t remember how to play “Imagine,” but tried out a few chords at the keyboard. He played a chord sequence and then said, “Oh, that’s another song.” Someone wanted to know which song it was. David looked up, gave us a coy smile and said, “It’s a surprise.”
* I spent most of my waiting time in the photo line thinking about Dawn and reminding myself to be careful with my unsteady feet.
* I was interested in watching a father and his two little daughters sitting near me in the concert. They were obviously there to see Demi, but Dad perked up as David began to sing. Following the set, the father turned to someone sitting next to him and said, loud enough for me to hear, “Wow, that was something else. Does this kid have a CD out yet?”
* Even though it has been mentioned here before, I was surprised at the mass exodus from the concert following David’s set. Maybe they were getting refreshments or visiting a restroom, but many of them never returned for Demi.
* I was upset/insulted by Demi’s refusal to mention anything “David” during her set, although KSM had gleefully acknowledged him. Perhaps Demi’s reasons have something to do with the aforementioned exodus.
Best memory for now: observing my concert guest during the Meet & Green, her mouth agape as David sang, and then in a perpetual grin for the next hour he spent with us. Gotta love the converts.
Praepos -- my apologies. I respectfully disagree with you. But I do agree in freedom of speech. And now I have comment regret like no other.
FYI -- My husband would never post here as his musical tastes lie elsewhere. And I am okay with that.
It is impossible to discuss David without including his physical appearance. When he bopped onto that stage at the PC Richard concert, I thought I was seeing a Renaissance painting come to life. This kid is a beauty, there’s no denying it. Once he starts owning his sensuality, his performances now will seem like “Star Search.” Even now, some of his moves seem inappropriate for Demi’s fans. The gap in talent and maturity between David and Demi borders on the scandalous.
Ronaldsf, I agree with you. Anyone who posts here should feel welcome regardless of the content of their post. A given topic should run its course, and when there is nothng left to say, it will fade from view in a natural way. It’s like a family gathering. People talk about all sorts of stuff, interesting and otherwise. David offers all kinds of subjects to discuss. As he gets older, things will get even more interesting. That’s why he’s so popular. If the ride gets a little bumpy, so what? Censorship is always wrong, as is the attempt to do so.
SF,
Thanks for reminding us of how David returns the love to his fans every single day of his life. You’re right, he requites 1000%.
SF -- #108, point well made.
We love him exactly because he does return our love. He knows exactly how we feel about him from all the letters,cards and sentiments expressed to him in person. With that in mind he goes beyond the call of duty to use all the gestures mentioned by SF (as much as he can for a celebrity)to keep in touch with his fans.
The heartfelt lyrics from when he sang Nature Boy so many years ago remains true within him as it does for us.
“The greatest thing you’ll ever know, is to love and be loved in return.”
“or example, last year when David came out swinging during Top 2 night, it was obvious to me at least that he was showing considerable aggressiveness. Cook himself characterized David’s performances as “feisty”–something out of sync with his passive, gentle persona–just as contradictory as the deep-rooted angst behind songs like Apologize or Desperate, so out of keeping with his usual cheery self. Not that women don’t perceive these inconsistencies, but their focus is more on his looks than the personality behind them.”
A ha! Now this is something to discuss! I will ignore for the moment the heteronormative construction of how men and women perceive David, but I think you will find, at least at TDC, that the women here can equally discuss his personality and his looks.
You mention David’s Top 2 performances, a night I will always remember with fierce pride. I was totally knocked out by his “aggressiveness” and enjoyed it very much precisely because NOBODY saw it coming -- not Cook, not Simon Cowell, not TPTB, nobody. He blew the roof off of the Nokia Theater, and I think that was when we really got to see the true essence of David Archuleta. I still get chills when I rewatch his performances from that night.
Gran Fan -- Gotta love your concert recap -- lol! Its one for the ages. Good to hear from you again.
yeah GranFan !!!!
LOVED your recap. I get so giddy when I read them…because I just know … and try as we may … putting this experience into something coherent .. something that even comes close to what you actually experience .. is really hard .. and I love how everyone gives it all different nuances.
So many VIP recaps now .. I can’t remember who said it .. but David gives each and every participant .. undivided attention. I think I mentioned that he reads you .. thoroughly .. before you can even say a word. It’s not like being in the presence of something surreal or God like .. but it is the acknowledgment of this continous exchange of love between you and David .. and it just .. well .. let me say .. I’ll never forget it. It makes me want to break out into a rendition of Barney’s I love you, You love me .. Demi would be proud .. bwahahahahaha .. okay enough ..
praepos “Not that women don’t perceive these inconsistencies, but their focus is more on his looks than the personality behind them.”
I could NOT disagree with you more. For a woman .. it’s actually the opposite that you state .. and the return is TEN FOLD.
Men look for a reason to love, woman will love first, and let the reasons come later. This has been the epitome of that example.
I love David because he’s believable .. that was why and how he first hooked me. For many it was Imagine.. or Heaven.. but for ME .. it was And So It Goes .. for a nanosecond in the song .. David glances down to his right hand when he sings Every time I’ve touched a rose, it seems I only felt the thorns..and in THAT second.. he made me believe he was holding the rose.. and THAT my friend.. is where he engulfed me..because I BELIEVED him.. in a world.. that nothing should be taken for face value.. DAVID ARCHULETA.. is what you see is what you get.. there are no hidden agendas .. there are no fake personas .. HE as a PERSON …is just as valuable to me as the VOICE.
His looks .. well that’s just icing on the cake .. and I’m not shy .. I think it’s yummy
Not sure if anyone else caught it, but there’s a big feature article about Demi in the New York Times today, Arts and Leisure section. The interview was done on the Newark stop.
http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/07/17/arts-leisure-preview-demi-lovato-moon-nostalgia-the-daily-show-and-more/
Feel free to leave comments at the New York Times article site.
goboywonder .. I DON’T KNOW !!! Hence..maybe our next post should be managing or identifying our OWN expectations.. not to be subject to transference (as Marlie would say)
I must say this: I do envy Demi Lovato for having a big machine like Disney promoting the dickens out of her. The Tonight Show, New York Times article… it almost makes me wish David had signed with them (almost being the operative word).
On that note, I need to get ready for bed.
G’nite all!
HG … I understand where you are coming from. To be perfectly honest.. there’s a side of me that’s finding the lack of David’s promotion .. quite fascinating.
He is developing an ENORMOUS following. He’s getting out there ..
IN SPITE of the lack of public relations..media frenzy .. he’s MAKING it .. and I think this will fare him well in the long run.
Zero Gravity.. declined by JIVE .. look at it.
David.. decides to dust it off and sport it on solo tour.. DESIRE.. and sheer DETERMINATION .. brought it into a studio and recorded..distributed in fan bundle.. and now on radio disney.. and a few other rebel radio stations.
In terms of credibility .. I think David is proving .. if you’ve got it .. you’ve got it .. and if you’re really THAT good … the rest …just sells itself.
HG -- lol! Ahhh yes, money and power. There are alot of people in a host of professions that have achieved huge success with little or no honest ability.
(this is just a generalization and not directed at any one person)
gbw: I want to get a new David Archuleta album every two years or so for the rest of my life.
dawn65: “gbw … one CD every two years? you made me gasp .. hahahaha”
gbw: dawn65, how often would be reasonable?
dawn65: “goboywonder .. I DON’T KNOW !!!
Then why did you gasp?
Just read the NYT article. What’s with all the references -
Mary Tyler Moore, Drew Barrymore, Anne Hathaway, Lily Allen.
They left out Sybil.
gbw ~ I think because we have had an influx of non-stop David for the last .. well over 2 years now. He’s flipping out 2 more CDs ..which will make 3 in less that a year and a half.
I KNOW at some point .. his career HAS to take on a slower more consistent pace ..
But for me to try to wrap my mind around this right now .. it’s difficult.
I distinctively remember coming to the end of solo tour wondering…what’s next..what’s next .. and rumors of a summer tour.. and then rumors of the Christmas CD .. and now this is all coming into reality.
There are no more rumors beyond this !!!
I have to get a grip on this reality.
Will David do Jingle Ball this year???
I will have seen him 9 times this year alone.. NINE..
What will happen if he doesn’t tour next year? Well of course he’ll have to tour next year..he’ll have a second CD to promote.. and with those words.. I’m already setting aside my funds in my head.. hoping to score tickets.
This really is an addiction .. isn’t it.
I am a lost cause.
But 1 CD every 2 years?
I DON’T KNOW…
What’s reasonable ?
What’s reasonable for David?
http://i406.photobucket.com/albums/pp148/wpdusdl/m.jpg
Just in case anyone needs a smile tonight!
emmiegirl.. I couldn’t even get through the whole thing. They can make all the references they want. Outside of a studio.. that girl has no future. Autotune was created specifically for her type of “celebrity”. That dog just won’t hunt. I am not sure what the appeal is.. but then again.. I’m not her demographic.. 6 -- 10 year olds.
J.Y. posted the pic in #129 on IDF. I love polkadot91′s comment
“Especially after seeing pictures like that, how does anyone not love him? Like you have to be really cold hearted and made of stone and be born without a soul.” Yep.
xaris.. THANKS !!!
That’s quite the picture .. haha
OH .. and GranFan
Someone wanted to know which song it was. David looked up, gave us a coy smile and said, “It’s a surprise.”
THAT .. makes me all warm and fuzzy.. it’s a surprise.. like a gift .. he’s giving us a present.
Is this customary?
I love it that he does this .. I don’t know why.. I just do
Granfan#112,
Thanks for your wonderful recap. Isn’t he a hoot? I could just stand back and watch him work a room all day. Glad you had a great time and witnessed some conversions!
Xaris -- RTFL BIG TIME, Just when I’m now getting over Totoro. David IS quite the comedian.
GRANFAN -- you’re back! So happy for you that you got to go to a VIP. Yup, just watching him from afar in a quiet setting for me would be worth the VIP tix.
SUNSHINE -- love what you wrote. **applause**
XARIS -- not just a smile my dear. That pix made me giggle.
GranFran, so much to love in your recap!
I think he loves to tease us. Your recall of him playing a chord and saying, “oh that’s another song” and then coyly saying “it’s a surprise” when asked about it! He is too much! dawn, I love it too!
And especially love hearing about the new fans, the Dad in the audience and then your guest. Nothing better than the look on the face of an unsuspecting new victim! The spell has been cast!
Not again. The comments left on Demi’s NYT Arts and Leisure article are just rude. I don’t care if Demi sings like a dying cat, but to tear her down and then bring in David’s name… That’s why David’s fans are getting a bad rep. He is like a guest in her house (Disney). Would you go and belittle your host’s kid and say yours is an angel while still staying there?! Geez! David would be embarrassed to read those comments written as they are.
bakyspritz #137 Ugh! I’m with you on that. David’s fans should NOT make rude comments about Demi. I don’t particularly enjoy her, but she deserves some respect -- just like we want for David.
I never bothered to read any of the comments. Hate to hear this. Unfortunately these kinds of things can and do reflect back on the artist. Other fans won’t even give them a chance simply because they dislike their fans so much. Lest we forget too that Demi herself is only 16 yrs old.
Ack, Praepos, I don’t want to get into it with you. My so called agression is truly tempered by how I would really like to respond to you. But as I am a mere woman, totally incapable of critiquing David on anything but the mere physicality of his being, maybe I am not predisposed to even question anything that you say.
Now snark aside, you remind me of people being totally capable of dishing it out, but not being able to take it. I simply think that you haven’t said much constructive, instead you keep insulting women in general because not all of us agree with what you are saying, or if we do, we don’t think it warrants the gravity of which you think it does.
Personally it’s all about his voice for me. Yes, I think he’s an attractive young man, but to imply (or am I making this up too?)that women are more focused on his looks than his, well you said personality. I guess you haven’t been reading about the way that his voice has affected so many of us, and that is why we are still here, talking about him, and posting our Great Expectations. I guess we should all be weeping about the tour, and gnashing our teeth at how he (or his music) is boring, and a disappointment (or underachieving), but that is your reality, not mine.
Dawn, I loved your description of David singing and So it Goes…I truly saw snowflakes when he sang Smokey Mountain Memories…I felt his yearning for family and home. That he can interpret a song and make me see, feel, and yearn in that same way, that’s some powerful mojo! As for his personality, it’s part and parcel of who he is as a performer. I agree with you that David is honest, there is no pretense. I hate to speak in generalities, but I think that is why some men see these inconsistensies, because so many male performers, perform with so much pretense and false bravado. David is just David, and maybe it’s a little off putting, I don’t know. But they seem to be uncomfortable with David being David. Maybe there is an article in there somewhere.
Anyway, Praepos, I don’t want to argue with you. We disagree, big deal. It will happen more often than not, that someone will not see things your way. Moving on, I am.
dawn65, Thanks, I will just leave it at happily enjoying whenever David puts out new music.
Freofan, had I stayed for Demi’s set in Fresno, I would have been in that picture.
Xaris, thanks for the pick-me-up.
amb4dja#32 -- you express yourself so beautifully. Love this, it brought me so much happiness….”I just think as much as David loves music, he may see his life in a bigger perspective…so he’s enjoying riding this out and doing the best he can with it. I’m enjoying watching his ride..and getting immensely entertained too!”
Your perspective has helped clarify mine. I was struggling to understand my ODD, this definitely helps……
“My job, as a fan…keep it real…”have a life”, that includes my passion, (more than occasional O.D.D), utmost admiration, and constant respect for David the performer, his music and all it makes me feel and celebrate in this remarkable, fascinating young man. I’ll continue to follow where he leads, while wishing him blessings, safety, a happy heart and his dreams fulfilled…..”
Silver -- thanks for that post about scarves way up there, now I am going shopping for a scarf to go with my plad shirt and overalls. Hope to see you in Pittsburgh. How will I know you?
About what I want for/from David -- I want for his spirit to never ever be broken. I thank God that we were allowed to share in his journey however long it may last. Everything about him has meant something different to each one of us. I want nothing from him except that he allow us to continue to be with him which ever way we can be it concerts, video, twitter, discussion.
Folks, the LAS VEGAS TOUR PAGE is now complete
http://www.thedavidchronicles.com/2009/05/las-vegas-nv-july-18-2009
Enjoy the complete set by the ever reliable jwipe or the select but HD upclose vids of azac640 and np1107 or the HQ vids of ShelleyFOD & nss21134. Check ‘em out!
Dawn -- you are love, fangirl & all. Please know that even though I don’t always post during confrontations (lemon squeezing!!) I appreciate you & your total UNCONDITIONAL support of David. I’m always late to the party since most of TDC has already called it a nite when I come on.
You expressed yourself in this discussion so well, so I’m reposting this because it is right on -- “….he gives SO much .. why can’t everyone be grateful for that? He gives WAY more .. and is FAR more accessible than just about anyone out there. He IS a fan’s dream. But if some fans, ruin it ..which will inevitably happen .. than David will be forced to change his ways .. and that will be a sad day for us all.”
Also had difficulting writing down my feelings. Thanx for helping to clarify with this…..
“As for his career? I don’t have an opinion .. it’s up to him .. I used to think I wanted him to sell out the likes of Madison Square Garden as a headliner .. but have since changed my mind. I think Tribeca had something to do with that. I realized .. that the size of the venue.. or his ability to get spins on the radio .. was not how David measured success. I’ve discarded all my preconceived notions since then .. and have decided to follow his lead.”
What I want FROM David is NOTHING. He has already given me everything and continues to give, almost daily. Tried to tell him this at the VIP but failed miserably, I think. I just don’t know or even remember anything after “thank you for sharing…” ughh…….
For David, I want for him to do whatever makes him happy -- CUN, Disney, BAB, Nickelodium (sp), travel, sing randomly (love that!). The joy he exudes when he is happy (doing whatever) is the most wonderous experience. It just feels my mind & body.
If anyone is still on the fence about the VIP’s -- get down & do it! You won’t regret it. Not for the op to meet him (which is special, in itself) nor the pic with him but for the accoustic performance. It is a breathtaking (seriously) experience. Just David and his keyboard in a small intimate space is heavenly. Guess that’s what made Tribeca so epic? Or if those newly added venues (to make up for the cancelled ones) are accoustic….. Oh, I need to be at one of those.
Oops! fills not feels….
hooked#143 -”I want for his spirit to never ever be broken. I thank God that we were allowed to share in his journey however long it may last.” ….wiping the tears away……
amb4dja at #32 & hooked at #143 -- please post more often guys! It is always heartwarming to hear from other archies’ fresh insights.
Praepos #66: I do not know what u mean when u say that I take “potshots” at others?? I cannot recall once that I did that.
Please, help me to understand.
I was trying to say that I am glad u are being shown respect here…I have seen some ridiculous things being thrown at u in other sites and that always bothered me b/c you are a great defender of David.
I am misunderstood here at TDC most of the time and I wish I could understand why. I really enjoy reading everyone’s thoughts here and the David love which I share.
Thank you.
JELLO -- am not sure of you being misunderstood here by the general membership. But at times I feel or can imagine that even before you punch the keyboards, you are already wary of what the rest of us will say. Don’t — as long as what you will write won’t be disrespectful of others.
Most of the time, you make me laugh actually!
TOfan, I love every thought in your article! If I were to quote my favorite lines, I would have to cut and paste the whole article.
Dawn, I love the way you described David singing and So it Goes. Brooklyndawn, just as you truly SAW snowflakes when he sang Smokey Mountain Memories, I swear I SMELLED chestnuts when he sang “chestnuts roasting on an open fire” in the X-mas Song. He makes me experience every word he sings. Whatever he sings, I really FEEL it, voluntarily or involuntarily. This pretty much sums up the source of my obsession with this eighteen year old. It is also completely fascinating when this otherworldly voice comes from someone who makes a face such as in JR’s avitar
What I want for and from David are the same: what he wants for himself, whatever that may be — be a superstar or normal teenager, sings in huge arenas or small venues, two CD’s a year or a CD every two years ….Whatever he wants to do, I will support him unconditionally. However he defines success, that would be my idea of success for him.
Hey guys…Morning…
Quick question to all--What’s with the “solo” shows (is it really just David, ala winter tour…no Demi/full set?? Are they only VIP??)…I’m confused on all that between VIP/solo…same thing?
Cuz in all the ads for the concert, I don’t see where it shows that he’d be alone, headlining…and it doesn’t make sense, but if that’s the case…good by me!
and which venues ARE the Solo shows??!
Am trying to plan another concert, asap, and get tix, and of course would SO rather see a solo show! (I think I heard “PICKsburg”
..is one…any others??)
Appreciate you info and help…Tks!
oops..hate typos, rushinnng…that’s “your” info and help…thx!
amb4dja: The Solo concerts are marked on the Summer Tour page:
http://www.thedavidchronicles.com/2009/06/09-summer-tour-dates/
I think they are all correct -- if anyone sees any errors there, please let me know and I’ll update/fix.
Tks Marlie…I’ll ck it out!
But, (indulge the thick-headed here, pls) what does that mean…no Demi? Is it a tour stop like his solo shows this past winter or are those just the venues where VIP is offered (another thing I’m considering)…
Sorry to belabor…but just confused on it & want to “explore all options”.. tks again!
Good morning all!
Brooklyndawn, you don’t post as often as I’d like, but when you do you’re so spot on -- #140.
I dare say, a certain person really doesn’t understand when we’re being polite.
When Demi Lovato is quoted as saying, “And then I’ll look at a crowd and be like: Oh, it’s not as much as them [the Jonas Brothers]. Some days I get really excited, and some days I get scared because I feel like I have to live up to certain pressures,” I get concerned when I hear reports of David’s fans exiting her show en masse just before she comes on or when fans leave negative comments on her site. She’s 16 and working for a huge, child-labor-driven and IMO bullying corporate machine that is Disney. I’m not sure David’s fans should be making the girl feel any more insecure by walking out before she comes on stage or leaving negative comments on articles about her.
And we wonder why she never bothers to mention David during her performance. I get concerned about stuff like this because it’s very easy to create backlash against an artist. Something I absolutely do not want for David.
Now, I think David needs a big break after touring for the better part of this year, but I don’t think it will be a long while before David performs live again after this Disney tour. He enjoys it too much, and with 2 more albums coming out, I anticipate a winter tour to accompany his Christmas album.
amb4dja: Solo events are when only David is performing and not Demi. VIP’s are pre-concert events for a small group (around 100) to meet David and hear him sing and have a picture taken with him. VIP’s can happen before either the Solo concerts or the concerts with Demi.
Hope that helps!
It does…I understood about VIP…was just not sure solo was something else, so thanks for clarifying…and, GREAT! re: solo!…well..great if I can still get some tix.
Tks again~Later, all~have a good day~
Marlie, there is an error on the Summmer Tour page..
July 28, no concert in DE, instead David will have his first solo w/o Demi in Pittsburgh w/VIP option. Looks like there are still regular & VIP tickets available. I am surprised about that. This venue should have S/O almost immediately. IMO.
In fact, ALL of his solo concerts still have tickets and VIPs available..what’s with that?? They should be S/O..all of them..by now!!
hooked..If you have a VIP, you will know me as the one who will not have a pic taken with David. That honor will be given to my sis who I love with my whole heart. She deserves it! Oh, and I will most likely be the oldest one there (at the VIP).
And I will know you by the scarf, plaid & overalls..you must be from TX? JUST KIDDING, everyone from TX & jello! Please do not take it personally, or me seriously!!
I loved your post, hooked. Heartfelt & poignant. Thank you!
David spent his “day off” in Utah, recording (not surprised) and spending time w/family & friends and is on his way to Denver…per his latest tweet.
Have a great day everyone!
Peace out, for now.
I can’t find the tickets for the solo concert at The Intersection in Grand Rapids on the 17th of August? I asked for some clarification yesterday. No response.
Does anyone know anything about that solo David concert? Ticketmaster shows nothing.
Joner? Freo? You gals are Michiganders aren’t you? Any input on this?
hooked 143 -”I want for his spirit to never ever be broken. I thank God that we were allowed to share in his journey however long it may last.”
…perfect. You said what I’ve been thinking, just didn’t know how to say it.
brooklyndawn 140 -- I almost posted in your defense last night.
Reminded myself you do not need anyone to speak for you. Happy to see you this morning.
The solo tours have had literally no promotion. It is just through the grapevine people know about these. Maybe the fansites could do something to make fans more aware; they would be sold out if people knew about them.
angelofda -- I am in MI and I cannot find the tix either -- I think they are not on sale yet. I am going to call the venue later today. I’ll let you know if I find anything. I am currently fighting with the hubby about this one. Dang it!
Delurking for a moment.
Outstanding article TOfan. I am a long time fan of your writing and perspective.
I loved your choice of title “Great Expectations” as a metaphorical comparison of David’s journey to date to Dicken’s work as it, too, is about growth and quest for maturity from the protagonist’s youth through adulthood.
Although a bit macabre to mention as this is meant to be a happy thread, I was struck by two articles about fans as they relate to Michael Jackson in the aftermath of media reviews with his passing:
The fans killed their idol. They always do
Those who professed to love Michael Jackson were vampires, feeders and jackals – their adulation hastened his end by Janice Turner – Times
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/columnists/janice_turner/article6586364.ece
She goes on to say that when she challenged Kevin Spacey, known to be highly secretive about his private life, he said, “I can look any fan in the eye and say you have no right from anything from me except the best performance I can give.”
She then states that today a performance isn’t enough, that fans demand access in all areas “through the story arcs of famous lives played out in countless celeb magazines and blogs, we make sense of our own. Their vulnerability, failings and lost loves—for all the blessings of beauty and talent—make us feel better about our own lowly woes.”
“Fandom,” she states, “is imitative and passive, it makes us ‘sweat’ over the minutiae, the minute to minute ups and downs.”
‘Like Orpheus, Michael Jackson was destroyed by his fans’ by Germaine Greer – The Guardian
http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2009/jun/26/michael-jackson-death-in-la
“…Ever since Dionysos danced ahead of his horde of bloody-footed maenads across the rocky highlands of prehistoric Greece, dance and song have been the province of boys. Like Orpheus, Jackson was destroyed by his fans, whose adulation and adoration prevented his living in any kind of normal society.”
What do I want for David? To realize his dream of singing (whatever that turns out to be) as it evolves overtime for him.
What do I want for me? To see David realize his dream of singing (whatever that turns out to be) as it evolves overtime for him.
Funnygirl, Thank-you for responding. It’s crazy the way these concerts are on some ticket selling sites, but others are not. I can’t even find out if the concert in Clarkston MI is a go. Ticketmaster doesn’t have it posted. Crazy me bought tickets for Moline IL on the 14th of Aug. I wanted to get decent seats, so I went ahead and bought them. Then this SOLO for David arrived! GAH..I’m soooo confused! If The Intersection is for real, my Hubby is being wonderful(buttering me up for something, maybe?) Ha! Ha! He says if that is a true concert on the 17th in G.R. you can go to that one too! WOW, he seriously surprised me considering he’s driving me 5 and a half hours one way to see David on the 14th! I wish you all the luck in convincing the “wary Hubby” that you just HAVE TO GO! (don’t you wish EVERBODY would understand ODD)!
Hello! I plan to go to the Grand Rapids concert. I also noticed that the date is not on the ticket sites or the venue sites. From reading the venue site, it seems that the venue is a general admission/mosh pit with some very limited seating in the bar area.
I dare say that I am keeping a close eye on Bestor’s already-scheduled Christmas dates, and also any other possible winter dates. There may be a trip to Utah in my future! Would be pretty to see the mountains in the winter.
hooked #143, I too desire that his spirit is NEVER broken. (I’m sure I couldn’t handle another let down similar to after he sang “Shop Around”). I also wish for David to be happy. Sounds so trite. BIG meaning though.
I think we could use some links on the TDC main page for Travelocity or Expedia to make it more convenient when making our travel arrangements to all of David’s upcoming engagements!
We could be the “full service” David Archuleta fan site!!
angelofda -- Clarkston is a go. It is hidden on ticketmaster -here is the link
http://www.ticketmaster.com/search?tm_link=tm_homeA_header_search&q=demi+lovato
someone called the Grand Rapids venue and there may be a date change…
Summa..very interesting articles, however the authors and the media should take a look in the mirror. The media, more than anything or anyone else, made MJ’s life hell on earth. The media followed him, badgered him, stalked him. His fans loved him. And I believe, had MJ been able to have the kind of connection David Archuleta has with his fans, he would have been a much happier person, but he was FORCED into seclusion by a media who made him feel like he was less than human. And because of that, when he did show up in public, he was mobbed, making it impossible for him to be seen in public very often.
Yes, there are crazy lunatic fans who pose a danger to some celebs, but for the most part, alot of them can come & go as they please, especially the ones who’s lives are not trashed by the media, like TMZ, for example. I think for the majority of people, when they see a celeb out in public, they tend to leave them alone, depending on where they are seen. If I saw David out in public, I would be shocked and would just say in passing, Hey David, how are ya? But it would depend on WHERE I saw him to determine whether I would even say anything to him..and I would never approach or stop him. That would be a big no-no…and it would kill me!
As I said before. Without fans…where would celebrities be. Oh yeah, they wouldn’t BE celebrities.
Funnygirl,#173
Thanks for the link! That one is so much closer. Still gonna hold-out for Davids’ SOLO event. Anxiously awaiting the definitive date!
Thanks for the articles Summa.
I like Kevin Spacey the actor. I am not a fan though. Does he HAVE fans? I have no desire to know anything about him one way or the other ~ and don’t purposely run to see something he may be starring or costarring in. I liked him in Pay It Forward.
However.. the fact that he said what he said.. now he strikes me as condescending .. and I think he’s an idiot. Sometimes it’s better not to be so rude and abrupt, while still being able to attain your desired result.
Actors are different ~ I don’t think they can make or break a movie ~ there’s too many other dependancies. Whereas MJ .. without fans.. he would not have been a success… same with David.. he HAS nothing.. if he doesn’t have fans.. fans that go all over the country, all over the world to support him.. fans who buy multiple copies of CDs, iTunes, appearances.. polls.. etc. In part .. I think because of who he IS ..he is able to increase his fanbase .. and the ensueing committment to him.. naturally grows. I think there can be casual fans .. and committed fans .. and I think.. we all HERE (with the exception of a few) are committed fans (and then again some of us should be committed??? hahaha)
I don’t know.. perhaps I’m completely wrong.. but I think ArchAngels.. are of a VERY rare breed. I think we consistently go above and beyond what it normally means to be a fan .. crossing into embracing our responsibility to help David succeed.. at the same time.. looking out for him as a person.. I mean.. the day I care if Kevin Spacey has a cold.. I’ll get back to you.. hahahahahahahahahah
I’m silly .. but you get what I’m trying to say.. I hope.
SF #160 Thank you! I updated what I know and will put the venue on there when I find it. I appreciate you checking those (since I know you have the entire schedule memorized
)
SF: Got it -- Byham Theater, Pittsburgh.
Summa, thanks for the links. I haven’t had a chance to read them yet but I will. Your post made me tear up here at the office, dang it, because there is much truth in it.
(And in your post, too, SF, about the huge role the media plays.) I like Kevin Spacey (Dawn, LOL at your post though) and I agree with him. I think all we can expect from any artist is to experience their art.
But there are artists who have managed to live quiet, everyday lives out of the media glare (Paul Newman comes to mind, Bruce Springsteen), maybe because they were mature enough (or had egos small enough) to allow them to focus on their art and, largely, keep out of the spotlight. That said, I’m sure it’s far from easy for performers to have it both ways — valuing both their fans and their privacy.
If anyone can do it, David can. (Of course, I say that about most things.
)
*attention* I just spoke with The Intersection venue in Gr. Rapids and the manager told me that David WILL NOT BE PLAYING THERE -- he may be somewhere else in the area but it will not be there. gahhhh all this waiting…and I almost have hubby convinced to come with me….
Bringing back memories. Was watching this and thought I’d share. It’s why we love David as we do. That’s all.
marlie, I know you are joking…but I really do pretty much have the tour schedule memorized!
I guess I am one of those fans who should be committed, eh Dawn?
Just 8 more days & counting to see & hear David, my one & only idol, again. Yay!!
BTW..I do think David’s mgmt dropped the ball by initially allowing David’s name to be linked to the State Fair venues he was not supposed to be performing in with Demi, and then after many fans had already purchased tickets for those concerts, they announced the solo venues. And what about all the fans who had purchased tickets to the Demi concerts in nearby states to those solo venues who could & would have traveled to see David solo, had they known BEFORE the tour tickets went on sale!! Uh..I don’t know of any fans of David who would prefer to see him open for anyone, even a top name, versus seeing him solo..DUH!! These solo venues should already be s/o. I have been wondering if David will do a Utah solo gig this year? Possibly a Christmas concert? OMG!! Heaven comes to Utah!!
Brooklyndawn, you couldn’t be more wrong when you say something off the wall like this:
“Now snark aside, you remind me of people being totally capable of dishing it out, but not being able to take it.”
In fact I’ve been more than civil responding to comments, particularly towards yours. It’s true I give back what I’ve received to a certain extent. But that’s only fair. Doesn’t mean I can’t take it. It means I won’t allow you to get away with bad behavior without calling you on it.
You also said this: “I simply think that you haven’t said much constructive, instead you keep insulting women in general because not all of us agree with what you are saying, or if we do, we don’t think it warrants the gravity of which you think it does.”
Whether I’ve anything constructive or not is for others to decide, but I certainly don’t believe I’ve insulted women. It’s not sexist to say women and men differ in their responses. I simply indicated women are more focused on David’s looks than most men would be--which is a truism. Moreover many of the posts here prove my point. That Totoro photo and the photo in which David scrunches up his cheeks seemed wonderfully cute to many here--but I would bet the house they’re a turn-off for a lot of men.
joymus…perhaps my all time David favorite song…Thanks for posting this, it is so nice to bring it to the forefront. It is all that he can do and more….3:16 -- 3:18…love it..
SB
praepos…Look back at #181 and watch David’s video, that is all that we need from him. Dean Martin was an alcoholic, Frank Sinatra was mixed up with the Mafia, Elvis had troubles with drugs etc. and the jury is still out on the troubles that Michael J had. David is having fun pretty much on his own time. He can pose with a room full of stuffed toys as long as he keeps singing and I can download the songs on to my ipod…
SB
FG,
thanks for the info on the Grand Rapids change! Let’s keep our eyes open and ears to the ground on this one. I wonder where else he would play in the area? If he comes to my city, I am going to invite him over for a BBQ on my new patio.
Angelica -- you now how much I love your writing and now your videos are true works of art.
I’ve been in the clouds and dealing with real life things. A little late but here it goes….
VIP- David walks in to the area through some curtain dividers, all smiles walks towards us, the cheering and applause is loud. I love the way he walks, not tentative but confident assured steps towards us, so relaxed, looking at everyone, not just glancing but looking, making eye contact and yes everyone he glows, his hair shines, his eyes sparkle, he has a perfect nose, his smile, OMG his smile made me forget anyone else was there. I can honestly say I have never seen anyone as gorgeous as David, he is stunning. He sits at the keyboard. I’m not breathing and my mouth is in a frozen smile, I smiled so much that my cheeks and jaw are sore today… lol I watched him I wanted to memorize his every movement, his mannerism’s, his facial expressions. He laughs so easily and freely, I could feel his joy, nothing fake, he is so real. He sang Crazy first and then Heaven. It was crazy, he goes somewhere when he sings, to hear him up close is breathtaking. My heart was beating so hard, it was like a feeling of disbelief, how can anyone sing like this? That VOICE, his intensity, his falsettos, its soul piercing, all so overwhelming. At this point the money I paid was not enough, this and this alone is worth every penny.
Most everyone went to get in line the line was on the other side of a wall where you didn’t have a view. I wanted to absorb everything about him, I stood with some others and I just watched his face, his body language, his interaction with the fans, young and old, male or female. One thing I noticed is his gentleness with children, he’s gentle with all and gives his undivided attention, but with children he’s so tender. I wondered how he could focused on each individual while we watched him during all these exchanges, he gave everyone the same respect, he shook hands, he gave hugs with no hesitation, genuine, sincere, so very real. I waited toward the end, trying to take dawn’s cue here. David took my extended hand and said hi! All smiles, his eyes looked right at me and I was able to say what I wanted to say without crying, he didn’t let go of my hand as I spoke and I instinctively placed my other hand over his, I didn’t realized I had done this until we hugged. I told him what I had rehearsed, he’s looking right into my eyes, his eyes literally sparkle, and he makes you feel at ease, like he really is interested in what you have to say. He says awww thank you, smiling… we hugged, this is when I realized he still has a firm gentle grip on my hand and I have his hand, huge hand in both my hands, we pose for the picture, I say thank you again and walk away. I’m so blown away by his graciousness, sincerity and genuine nature.
As he’s leaving someone points up to him, there’s big window on the second level filled with people looking down at us, he waves and everyone screams, I look up and what do I see, my 6 grandkids, my son and daughter, their spouse’s glued to the window watching with a huge crowd waiting to get into the venue. I find out they saw my entire time with David. Our hand holding, our hug, my grandkids asked me if I was crying, I was trying not to. It all ended way to fast. I recommend, I urge anyone who hasn’t VIP’d, to do so!
The concert was something else, WFM stood out the most for me, like he’s trying to make us understand it, he is where he wants to be. Barriers and Zero Gravity obvious favorites, Apologize unbelievable, You Can has a new life, he’s killing this one. Tons of screaming, arm waving, dancing! Every song was perfection. My son in law is a base player and singer in a punk rock band. So was curious about his opinion. He said he’s not into pop music, that most of the song’s have the same back beat, which makes them sound similar, except for Zero Gravity and You can. He is very jealous of David’s vocals, he would give anything to be able to sing like that and he said he can sing! That out of all the songs he actually had a favorite, from a punk rocker, it was You Can.
I’m anxious for Christmas Album! Had a great time with fellow TDC’rs after David’s set. We talked and talked about all things David, I envy those that can fly around to see him. I am overwhelmed by the whole experience meeting David and David fans. I now am so ready to do it all over again. I love him more today than yesterday and didn’t realize that was possible.
TOfan -- wonderful post! Very thought provoking.
All I want for David is for his dreams to come true.
All I want for me is to be able hear and see David for as long as I can.
“That Totoro photo and the photo in which David scrunches up his cheeks seemed wonderfully cute to many here–but I would bet the house they’re a turn-off for a lot of men.”
Praepos, it’s funny that you see a distinct difference in the way women and men respond to those particular photos. I have a very different read of them, and I doubt my analysis is based specifically on my gender:
http://souldavid.wordpress.com/
Sometimes I think we take David too literally at times, whatever our gender.
Oh! I forgot to add: great recap, Djafan. It was a great read!
djafan..Your recap is full of warm chills & deep thrills! I’m so happy you had such a memorable experience with David. The effect he is having on all who are at the VIP’s is one of overwhelming joy & love. And you come away more in awe than ever! Thank you for sharing!
And you had your kids & grandkids at the concert too! That is really awesome!
I’ve enjoyed all the recaps, thx to everyone.
#187 djafan: “Tons of screaming, arm waving, dancing!”
After watching the hundreds of youtube videos of just David, this is what made the songs even fresher for me when I attended my concert. I had so much fun watching the fans cheer David on and observing how supportive the band members were as they helped David get the crowd pumped up. This is what the the youtube videos don’t usu. capture.
For the record, I’m definitely an outlier in all these male vs. female discussions.
HG, just trying to point out gender differences. I really wince when I see those photos--as when I saw the youtube clips of his stints on iCarly and Hannah. It plays into the stereotype too much for comfort. I think the industry in fact recognizes his great talent but intuits an immaturity on certain levels. I don’t like anything that encourages that perception, cute as it may be for many.
And yes, guys do perceive him differently. Sure he’s a great looking kid and guys notice this and admire his fitness and wholesomeness. But no man can reach the heights of rapture over this the way a woman can. Djafan’s take on him is a case in point:
“I love the way he walks, not tentative but confident assured steps towards us, so relaxed, looking at everyone, not just glancing but looking, making eye contact and yes everyone he glows, his hair shines, his eyes sparkle, he has a perfect nose, his smile, OMG his smile made me forget anyone else was there. I can honestly say I have never seen anyone as gorgeous as David, he is stunning. He sits at the keyboard. I’m not breathing and my mouth is in a frozen smile, I smiled so much that my cheeks and jaw are sore today… lol I watched him I wanted to memorize his every movement, his mannerism’s, his facial expressions. He laughs so easily and freely, I could feel his joy, nothing fake, he is so real…”
Nothing at all wrong with this--in fact it’s pretty wonderful, the stuff of great careers. Most of the really great ones on the male side--Sinatra, Elvis, the Beatles--began this way. But there was always a transition at some point when the appeal got more universal and included men.
HG, just read your take on the photos. In one way we agree--insofar as we see these photos of him as pointing to a stereotype about him. Where we differ is that I don’t see this as deliberate self-mockery on David’s part. Instead I think he was just being a kid horsing around. Still, even if you are correct and David WAS being satirical--how widespread do you think the appreciation would be for this? As far as I can see most fans have reacted as we might expect--by gushing over his adorableness and cuteness.
Praepos -- for the sake of your post #192,if you can, I’m interested in hearing your perspective on how David can widen his appeal to men. Would it be based on the type of music he produces? More heft to his music? In your mind what transition triggers can you identify for Elvis, Sinatra or the Beatles that made their appeal universal?
Sandybeaches, you can luxuriate in David’s cuteness all you want--but it plays into the AI stereotype about David--that he’s 18 going on 12. David needs to get back in the adult mainstream.
joymus, let me think about this a bit.
praepos -- Think about submitting an article idea in the Contact page. If you are interested, address your comment to me, include your email address and I’ll send you more details.
praepos… you said…
“But no man can reach the heights of rapture over this the way a woman can.”
How wrong you are…
This whole discussion is quite unbelievable.
praepos…”but it plays into the AI stereotype about David–that he’s 18 going on 12…”
And that my friend is your opinion and I am sure it is shared by some…how many is anyone’s guess. Where we all stumble is when we project our individual opinion and point-of-view with unmerited certitude. Those opinions and POVs are seen through our individual prism -- developed from each of our unique life experiences and learning, inherently biased…which distorts, slants or colors whatever is viewed through it. Some of our prisms are more flawed than others…there are no perfect views…and certitude is placing too much faith and currency in an opinion or POV that simply does not need or is incapable of proof…dang, and I lost my train of thought again …bigsky, party of one, your blue jello is ready…
Praepos, I’m willing to to give David some credit for self-parody. Yes, I do believe he’s just being a “kid horsing around,” but it’s in that horsing around where I see the self-parody coming into play. He’s in essence poking fun at the “adorable Archie” persona by pinching his own cheeks.
I mean, when he posed with the stuffed Totoro for his first ever twitpic, tell me that wasn’t a deliberate, “You want more cuteness, here I am!” pose, especially when a fan thought to give an 18 year old boy/man such a toy. David is all graciousness, but come on! Don’t tell me he wasn’t getting a kick out of fans infantilizing him at that moment, so it’s like, “let’s give ‘em the ol’ razzle dazzle,” to quote Michael Jackson, when he played around with the media by wearing a mask just to feed into the circus.
My reading could be off, but I think there is some self-parody going on, consciously or otherwise.
It’s because we take them so literally why public figures mess with us in these moments of levity.
Now, I won’t disagree that some female fans are feeding into the stereotypes you mention, but part of my knee-jerk reaction to what I view as a chauvinistic characterization of said fans is because women as fans just don’t get taken seriously, so when “we” like an artist, that artist gets roundly dismissed as a “pretty boy” or “boy band” (read: some guy who makes the ladies scream but who could never be a real “artist”). Whereas, when enough guys are into a male artist, then their ability to get taken seriously goes up. I think that is a sexist construction because -- as you pointed out in your comments -- female fans are assumed to only be preoccupied with an artist’s looks and less with that artist’s talent or personality.
I’m not going to pretend that, on many occasions, many of the fans (including male ones -- Ronaldsf, Mikesd, I hope you’ll back me up) do get caught up in the jeans David is wearing or if a bellybutton is shown. But that’s not the only thing we’ve ever discussed about David here. We’ve also spent a considerable amount of time discussing his vocal talents and his musical genius. Because most of us are women, and when we *swoon* and express our adoration for said artist, we’re immediately reduced to some kind of irrational, hormone-driven fanbase with no artistic sensibility, and I do find that pretty irksome. But that’s just me.
Praepos -- 2nd dfliz’s request. Love it or leave it -- it’ll certainly make for a thought-provoking post.
Breaking into the debate to say that some fans are going to try to get a twitter trend going when David reaches 150K followers, later this afternoon or early this evening. We’re thinking something like #Congratulations @davidarchie, 150K and growing. If you’re around, look for the tweets and join in!
Praepos -- you are an interesting fellow….
You pull one of my comments as to reflect the tone of my whole post…Yes he is stunning! Did you read the rest? Or did that put you off and didn’t continue. He is the whole package, talent, looks, and confidence….
“I love the way he walks, not tentative but confident assured steps towards us, so relaxed, looking at everyone, not just glancing but looking, making eye contact”
Did you truly read this? I’m making an observation of his confidence around all the people surrounding him. On AI as good as he was his walk was tentative, hesitant, it has been replaced with a confident strut by a mature young man.
You sir sound extremely bitter, as much as you may admire David, you don’t seem to know how to have some fun. Life is extremely short and I for one plan to enjoy David in his entirety, Voice, talent, character, humility, and by all means looks….
HG I sensed a Grouch Marx response to “getting caught up in the jeans David is wearing” but I will refrain… but yes I will back you up on this one. I think you are right on again (as I also posted in your blog). The most significant part of the VIP event for me was the vocal magnification we were given at close range.
kathy -- thanks for the info!
Sorry “Groucho”
my statement…
it was like a feeling of disbelief, how can anyone sing like this? That VOICE, his intensity, his falsettos, its soul piercing, all so overwhelming. At this point the money I paid was not enough, this and this alone is worth every penny.
mikesd…
The most significant part of the VIP event for me was the vocal magnification we were given at close range.
Yes, mikesd… I concur… and I included it in my recap…don’t think preapos noticed though.
Praepos -- please bear with me -- my funny bone is acting up again
.
In the space of 3 post cycles you have managed to become one of THE most controversial posters this site has seen in quite a while. I will probably get lampooned for this as well but I’ll take my chances -- Is it your intention to pick a fight with just about every poster on this site before you’re through?
I don’t ever post here but I often read the comments. I see a common theme and I just have to clarify something. To Praepos, you don’t like seeing David pose with stuffed animals or do things that you perceive as childish. I have news for you.. David is childish. I won’t pretend to be an actual friend of his but I know some who are, and David is very childlike. He DOES prefer cartoons to other t.v. shows, and he does play games on the internet that most would consider child games. That is WHO he IS. Do you expect him to “fake” his way through life, just to please you? If you can’t accept that when David is not on stage he is young for his age, then perhaps you should just watch him perform and not watch David just being David.
And HG, he is not acting when you see him posing with the Totoro toy. He is actually thrilled about it because believe it or not, those things do actually interest him. It is hard to reconcile the more childlike David with the one we see on stage, but if you are going to love him for who he is, then you must accept that part of him as well. He is not aware of what people say- doesn’t even read anything about himself. He is who he is, nothing more and nothing less. I’m not going to delve into David’s psyche here, but maybe David dives into his childlike make believe world the same way another teen may turn to drinking, sex or drugs as an escape. I see no harm in it whatsoever.
HG .. “we’re immediately reduced to some kind of irrational, hormone-driven fanbase with no artistic sensibility, and I do find that pretty irksome. But that’s just me.”
No, it’s not just you.
For one, I can read and write music, play several instruments, and like David have relative pitch. There are MANY times I’ve not been over the moon about a performance because he’d been quite pitchy, but don’t post it here. I do share it with friends ~ who disagree … haha.. because when I was less than thrilled with his return to the AI stage, I about got my head handed to me from here to kingdom come for even suggesting such. So don’t presume me to be biased just because I think he’s drop dead gorgeous .. and this has more to do with everything encompassing David.. than just his boyish good looks.
I’m not going to defend myself.. and I don’t really think anyone here should.
Because like it or not .. David’s fan base is primarily made up of women of all ages, from every race, culture, creed and religion.. so as much as his MALE fan base will grow, I can promise you that his appeal .. to the female population.. will only continue to grow as well.. this will bode well for David.. ALL fans .. are good.. there’s no such thing as a BAD fan.. unless you’re that of the stalker type.
I have more to say on this, but I’m treading dangerously close to saying things I presume to be correct .. and I don’t want to further offend anyone.
To me .. it sounds like praepos is dangerously close to passing judgement about David.. and I’m getting a little defensive .. again.. he is who he is… he loves his stuffed toys.. and his goofy smiles .. see my avi .. I bet he never thought that picture would be posted.. since it was taken by his cousin… but it’s just who he is. I would never dream of downing him for that.
Oh My Heck .. That Little Sticker .. and Dang it.
I don’t see praepos picking a fight, but rather stating his opinion. Express away, my friends.
Bigsky #199 makes a great point that we each have our own POV based on a variety of factors. A possible problem arises when we assume that others of our group (men or women or young or old or whatever) feel exactly the same way as we do. We put our individual values and feelings on the group, which is almost always a mistake.
And OMG, men and women and young and old can feel the rapture of David’s voice. No question about that. I’ve seen it.
maninthemirror…
It is hard to reconcile the more childlike David with the one we see on stage, but if you are going to love him for who he is, then you must accept that part of him as well. He is not aware of what people say- doesn’t even read anything about himself. He is who he is, nothing more and nothing less. I’m not going to delve into David’s psyche here, but maybe David dives into his childlike make believe world the same way another teen may turn to drinking, sex or drugs as an escape. I see no harm in it whatsoever.
THANK YOU!
dawn…..
To me .. it sounds like praepos is dangerously close to passing judgement about David.. and I’m getting a little defensive .. again.. he is who he is… he loves his stuffed toys.. and his goofy smiles .. see my avi .. I bet he never thought that picture would be posted.. since it was taken by his cousin… but it’s just who he is. I would never dream of downing him for that.
Oh My Heck .. That Little Sticker .. and Dang it.
And THANK YOU!
Welcome Maninthemirror!
Mikesd: Groucho FTW!
Dawn --
To be honest I think most of us are refreshed by David’s playfulness as the music business if filled with too many young artists acting grown before their time. I made the mistake of visiting mj’s blog to just get up to date on the AI tour. ALambert is the focus of so much controversy concerning his antics on stage and purported diva attitude behind the scenes with the other idols that to me, David is like a breath of fresh air. No artifice, no smoke or mirrors to dazzle -- he does all that and more in HIS own way with off the hook talent, personality,good looks (yes i’m saying it) and hard work. Take him as you find him.
joymus, I don’t pick fights, I express opinions that seem for some reason to upset people--who then proceed to pick fights with me. I am simply responding ad hoc--as honestly as I can.
HG, excuse me, but you’re being paranoid when you claim female fans “as fans just don’t get taken seriously.” Sinatra, Elvis, the Beatles--need I say more? All were taken VERY seriously by guys--even from the get-go. Yet their fans were primarily female to begin with.
mikesd, I’m talking in generalities. There are always exceptions--but generally speaking few guys would go into a state of rapture over David’s looks the way women will. I can’t believe this is even called into question.
Praepos….”but generally speaking few guys would go into a state of rapture over David’s looks the way women will. I can’t believe this is even called into question.”
I beg to disagree. Just tell this to David’s gay fanbase! He’s a gay boy’s dream.
Liz -- I was just saying it tongue in cheek. I’m totally amused yet stimulated by the viceral atmosphere created whenever he posts. But that’s just me -- lol!
dawn, I’m not criticizing David at all. There are thousands of pictures being taken--some of them super-cute. But the cute shots with stuffed animals are not the ones that will advance his agenda as a mainstream pop artist.
Maybe David doesn’t WANT to be a mainstream pop artist. I for one.. don’t really see that happening. David has way too much SOUL for that.
Praepos do you like ANYTHING about David BEYOND American Idol?
A cumulative review of all the recent posts .. I’ve struggled to find anything beyond David’s voice that you approve of.
Didn’t like the material on the CD
Didn’t go to solo tour because of the swarms of screaming women
Was OK with the McFly tour
Not a fan of the Demi tour
Not a fan of David childish ways
Not a fan of David’s fans
And now you want him to embrace an adult fan base at 18 years old. The fact that he even HAS a fan base beyond the teen and early twenties .. is a HUGE KUDOS. You don’t find artists with that kind of appeal anymore.
Like I said before .. David VOICE .. is the mere tip of the iceberg for me .. well no.. NOT the tip.. it’s the foundation.. of which all the rest of the great stuff is built upon.
All things David.. is what will undoubtedly leave him on the outside looking in .. but what a view he has.. and he SHOULD stand out.. because he’s really one of a kind.. there’s nobody.. EVER ..quite like him.. I for one .. am totally fascinated by him. And maybe that fascination is what draws me to him even more.. but I find it really hard to play by the rules here .. when so much negativity is being slung at him.
I’m not of the mind that David is being led around like a puppy .. I think he has a LOT of say in everything that pertains to his career.. just look at his clothing choices.. do you think anyone would really recommend that Las Vegas get up? (sorry sorry .. but you all know I can’t let it go .. perhaps Denver will redeem him .. hahahaha) I’m with HG.. it was a HOT mess. But that is WHO he is .. and I have to love his BRAVE choices
HG, excuse me, but you’re being paranoid when you claim female fans “as fans just don’t get taken seriously.”
Heh. Praepos, you are a funny dude.
*rolling my eyes in the direction of Dawn and Brooklyndawn.*
Welcome, ManintheMirror! And just for the record, I do love the “childlike” David as much as the manly one. I was just stating an observation. Feel free to disagree. (I’m still inclined to believe David is indulging in some “dry wit”.)
Sheesh! Why is it that, whenever anyone makes a statement that isn’t over-the-moon gushing, or if it is some kind of intellectual analysis (vs. an emotive appeal) someone always assumes you’ve stopped loving David or that you don’t accept him as is?
Oops! I guess my “paranoia” is getting out of whack. Damn those female hormones!
betsy
sorry I missed you. Imagine we will meet up later?
Abrra
praepos… it is called into question because it dismisses a larger portion of David’s fanbase than many will admit he has. Just check out some of the inane reviews some of the reporters have posted covering David’s concerts, especially on the solo tour. And yes it is more than likely the gay fanbase that will “go into a state of rapture” (gotta love that expression) over David’s appearance but this line gets blurred so many times in so many ways… guys and girls in every which way that to make that statement as fact is not convincing to me. Sorry just my opinion. It also doesn’t surprise me that some people have that opinion. Very little surprises me today. That’s why I think this whole topic is way off from what this blog has done for me…
maninthemirror, if David is actually that childlike, then it’s no wonder he’s being Disneyfied. But in fact I don’t believe it for a second. Retreating into childhood is a defense mechanism, not a sign of well-being. Imo David’s worked out a lot of hidden trauma that way. His fans insist he wears no masks, but in fact he does. For instance, after the scandal broke last month about his dad, he seemed totally unaffected, even joked around. In other words, he wore a public mask. But on stage he sang Stand By Me and Apologize. That was the real David.
Whew… sorry .. I had to step away to do my Teen Choice Award voting.
Praepos- I never said that wasn’t the “real” David. David has many sides to him and being different on stage and off doesn’t make one of those less “real”. I don’t disagree about the childish things being a defense mechanism.. of course they are. But, would you prefer he be out using methamphetamines, or watching Pokemon? I’m not here to try to analyze David. I just wanted to explain that when you see David acting childlike in photos, etc., that’s the way he actually is. I don’t want him to try to suppress that just because some people think it might hurt his pop career. Sorry.
Oh, and HG.. I’ve read enough of your comments to tell you I would NEVER question your love for David.
“Oh, and HG.. I’ve read enough of your comments to tell you I would NEVER question your love for David.”
Glad to hear, ManintheMirror.
dawn, there’s plenty I like about David. It’s true I was somewhat disappointed in his album since not a single track showcased his actual ability as a vocalist. Even Angels ended in bombast with the band overpowering the voice. And I didn’t attend the solo tour for the reasons I gave. But how does this translate into not liking anything about David? I certainly appreciated following that tour and the McFly tour and the Asia trip on youtube. I loved the tv appearances in the UK and in Manila. I also greatly admire David’s vitality on stage, his generosity of spirit off-stage, his wise outlook on life. I’ve always believed he had an incredibly strong character and was nothing at all like the befuddled 12 year old many took him to be on the basis of his AI appearances. I’ve called him a genius many times on many sites. I believe he’s truly precocious--primarily in an interpretation of music that’s far beyond his biological years. I admire his instinctive good taste, his restraint, his carefulness about not oversinging.
Thank you .. that was nice to hear something positive.
Wow, what a discussion.
David is who he is. Some might not like his personality, while others love him just for that. David repeatedly has said this and he seems fine with it. I wish I had his sense of self possession at his age.
Unfortunately, it sounds like you (praepos) might have to wait a few years before he reaches a maturity level that is in-sync with your expectations/comfort zone. Nothing wrong with that BTW.
HG, I apologize for any offense I’ve given. It wasn’t my intention but my bluntness can do that at times.
bakyspritz, maybe you’re right.
David wants to SKYPE? Woah!
Okay, looks like he deleted that tweet; seems like he has given up on skype. Oh well. The possibilities would have been mind boggling, I think!
praepos, I agree with much, not all, but much of what you have said.
HG, I agree with almost all of what you say.
Dawn, I agree with much of what you say.
maninthemirror, I agree with much of what you said.
I feel like I’m in the Twilight Zone!!
Where is rascal when I need him??
You all have me so confused!
David is a chameleon, an enigma, a mystery. He’s whatever he wants to be at any given time. That’s what makes him the most fascinating human beings alive today.
Actually, David has me more confused than any of you! I have a headache!
BTW..Demi is appearing on THE VIEW this Thursday morn. yahoo!
hi all!
should I read on? might take me another 2 weeks, lol… seems like old times???? 
just back from 2 weeks vacation… check in at TDC, read TOfan’s terrific post and the first few comments…. wow!
holy crap…. SF maybe you can just give me the short version of the thread?….
Demi on The View? And the Disney Machine kicks in once again. For anyone tuning in to any of these Demi appearances, is she remembering to mention David?
HG!!!! you’re here?!…. I know you’ll give me the update… I’ve gotten lazy…don’t make me read this whole thread, I still have 4 books to finish…..
Hi Happy -- Welcome Back!
Happy, in a nutshell: TOfan has an awesome article asking the fans to self-reflect on our “great expectations” for David (most of us tend to agree on his well being and hopes for an awesome music career), I opened up a can of worms by continuing a discussion from the previous thread in which I called out Praepos on certain categorizations of David’s female fans, we’ve been going back and forth between TOfan’s article and the issue of whether or not Praepos is offering any new arguments to the David-should-abandon-the-Demi tour debate. There is some disagreement as to whether or not we’re being fair in our discussion and if we’ve got an “our way or the highway” type censorship thing going (loosely quoting Bliss), and the latest is we’re coming to terms and apologizing and making up, and now I’m caught up in David’s recent tweets.
Do let me know if I’ve missed anything, folks!
Hi joymus…thanks…. nice to vacation…nice to return home.
HG -- nope. Not onstage, not off-stage, so far. Once on radio she was asked by a DJ about him and her reply was something like ‘am I on tour with david archuleta?’
I don’t buy into that she is only 16yo thingy… but that’s just me.
HG!! thank you for the recap… you saved me about 3 hours, lol
You’re welcome! Good to have you back, Happy!
JR, that’s interesting to know. What is her gripe? Especially since David just was promoting her new album on twitter today?
Reciprocity, young lady! Learn it!
Happy! My post disappeared. I guess I was moderated! oh well! My bad!!
I missed you! Hope you had a great time on vacation. So glad you’re back!
David has surpassed 150k followers on Twitter! yay!
WOW, David told the VIPers in Denver he is doing some solo concerts at Christmas! How about THAT!!
oooops! not VIPers..VIP-ers. There, that’s better!
Its patently obvious to me that Demi is threatened and jealous of David and his popularity And his voice. This was her tour to begin with and I don’t think she liked it one bit that David was put on the billing with her… Tkaes the spotlight off her.
David is slowly becoming his very own reliable source in leaking tidbits. He’s cognizant of the fact that we yearn to know what’s coming up next for him.
SF245- hi SF, nice to see you, repost your post…no comments were moderated….well not in a long while anyway
joymus #181 Oh, I don’t know about that video. Every time I watch that now, it just brings tears to my eyes. Thank you for posting it.
Did anyone hear..David said he’s doing solos for Christmas!
So, I think I’ll just hold off on any additional summer tour concert and just wait for the possible Christmas solos!
Merry Christmas to all!!
Good night and for David..
Dear Lord,
Please take care of David. Watch over him, protect him from all harm. Cloak him with your love and give him the strength to endure all that is thrown in his path. Give David the courage and guidance to say no to those who ask for more than he can reasonably give. Surround David with loving and supportive people who love him unconditionally as we, his devoted Archangels do. Separate David from those who have agendas other than for his well being. Give him rest when he’s weary. Give him the stamina to sustain his hectic pace. Give him assurance when he feels doubt. Give him joy when he feels sad. Cloak him always in your protective arms during this time on his journey. Keep David and and his voice healthy & strong as he fulfills his Destiny which was written in his Book of Life before he was born. And please Lord, give us, David’s forever fans, the wisdom to know when and how to do right by David. Open our eyes and help us in the way we support David so that it’s always in his best interests. May his positive and good Karma continue to attract those with positive and good Karma! May he continue to encounter goodwill and happiness! May he continue to be healthy and strong during this time in the summer tour with Demi. Keep David and his companions safe as they journey across this land of ours. Though we may be unworthy, we humbly pray. Amen
David, hope you have a good night’s sleep & sweet dreams on the road. Keep with you all our love, prayers and warm thoughts! We will always love you madly! If you are ever in need of help, tweet us an SOS and your Archangels will be there in a flash!
Contigo siempre con amor!
Marlie -- Thanks. I teared up watching it myself. A year ago he started his career. We are seeing so many vids of what he’s doing now, the growth he’s accomplished. I simply wanted to be reminded of where it all began and why our love for him blossomed so fast.
Hey all!
What a good discussion going on in here! Reminds me of the good ole days back at nD. I appreciate hearing all the diverse opinions.
I had a few thoughts, hope no one minds me sharing…
ManintheMirror said:
“I don’t disagree about the childish things being a defense mechanism.. of course they are. But, would you prefer he be out using methamphetamines, or watching Pokemon?”
I still don’t think reverting to childhood is healthy …isn’t that what MJ did? The poor man seemed to go through a lot of psychological trauma and this is how he managed to deal with it. Ultimately it didn’t help him live a happy or healthy life. Also, it is very dissapointing to me to see that the likely cause of David’s supposed childlike behavior is still heavily involved in his career and traveling on his dime…..SF…I had the same viceral reaction as you in this regard…gah
praepos -- kudos to you for standing your ground. I have been cowed by the crowd myself and always backed down…hate the thought of people not “liking” me. I’ve often wondered why it sometimes seems Rascal is the only one allowed to express a critical opinion? I’d also be very interested in reading an article from you.
Jello -- just saw a commercial for JELLO! hehe! I love the moxie you show in your posts.
HG -- hi! *waves* you’re awesome as always.
And hi to everyone else too!! Debate is what makes this country great!!
djafan#187
Your recap…it felt like I was there again, in that moment in time, in that small space that filled up miraculously with The Voice. Love that you got to hold on to his hand so long and the spontaneous unasked for hug. And you have witnesses! Loved every word and thought you expressed.
I got a card from David today!! Nineteen days after my concert in Lafayette, when I had long given up hope. He mailed it from Los Angeles. Wanna see it? I feel so requited! Seriously, he is so good and thoughtful to take the time to do these things when I know he is crazy busy. I truly could not love him more. Yet every day he does something that tells me, “Yes, you can.”
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk88/netterbutter-928/scan0001.jpg
WOW… I think I made a mistake by posting my recap here… to SF, HG, desertrat….thank you. I had a memorable experience.
praepos you have the floor.
Angelica! Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for posting that Angelica!!!!!! very sweet
Angelica, He keeps proving his graciousness over and over.
he is so good and thoughtful to take the time to do these things when I know he is crazy busy. I truly could not love him more. Yet every day he does something that tells me, “Yes, you can.”
Yes, Love him too!
oops…forgot to mention -- Freo -- spot on! My gay friends LOVE David…you should have seen the reaction when one of his TV appearances was played in a bar here…that is certainly a devoted and loyal segment of his fanbase
I just have to comment that there are over 49,300 comments that have been posted from nD, jD and TDC. I suspect less than 20 of them have had some kind of “please do not” associated with them. I’d say that’s a pretty good percentage of openness.
On a more fun note, I wonder who will post comment number 50,000!!!!!!
Evening everyone! Lots of good discussion tonight. I’m afraid I don’t view any of David’s behavior as especially childish for his age or symptomatic of reverting to childhood. My extended family consists of a moderate-sized horde of teenagers and young adults, and David’s goofy photos, cartoon watching, and game playing fits right in with normal male teenage behavior. We have photos of teenage guys with a huge stuffed Spongebob which are hysterical.
One important thing to remember is that high IQ and/or highly gifted children have a large part of their mental functions operating at a level many years ahead of their peers, and frequently ahead of the adults in their lives. Another part operates at an age appropriate level--learning to drive, figuring out how to ask a girl to dance, etc. Finally, in most cases I am familiar with, a small part enjoys games, books, play, or whatever which we may think inappropriately young, but they find relaxing. They enjoy NOT having to think. I have no scientific evidence to support this, but I suspect such play is not only good for their overall mental health, but it might also be a necessity.
SO--Tofan, in response to your fine article, my wish for David would be that he continue to live his dream as he defines it, that he never feel pressured to be less or more than he is, and that he enjoy being young while he is.
xaris 262, DITTO on everything!
Re. Michael Jackson, his nurse said she didn’t find it strange that he watched cartoons. She mentioned how when watching, he was also interested in how they were produced (e.g., technology) and the wordplay associated w/various characters. I can see how all of that would be of interest to a performer/songwriter.
On the job, I’ve worked around a lot of men who would take a vacation day just to be the 1st in line to see the premiere of a movie w/a superhero (e.g., Spiderman, Batman).
To me, David appears to be a prodigy when it comes to music. I would expect that Like Michael Jackson, he’s inspired in ways that others might not be.
I was just watching a video of David Cook on Snarky’s and guess what he was wearing….a plaid shirt. LOL
Kathy #202 -- he’s done it…150K--plus a few hundred extra--are following him! Including Imogen Heap, I noticed… Happy, it could happen!! [I love "Blanket" too - thanks for that in the Key of David series.]
Xaris -- loved, LOVED your post!
Desertrat -- kudos!
Marlie -- when you did the short take on Totoro, not knowing anything about the series or the character I was immediately captivated by the sounds, music and wordplay of the characters and I’m a grown adult.
I’m going by bj’s post of his liner notes -- thank you for accepting him for the way he is. (paraphrase)
He really can’t be who he’s not and I am not willing to link any past trauma to his behavior at this point.
Off topic: my local station’s entertainment show just showed a clip of Paula Abdul’s “squish you” comment to David in connection to her contract dispute with AI. Nice seeing him on TV.
DJAFAN -- thanks for sharing your thrilling recap. I can only imagine the conversation your family was having while you were with David. Have they stopped teasing you yet? LOL
BTW, when you find the time, please re-post your recap on the related tour page? Thanks!
Hi Marlie! Regarding your assessment of the posts…I have to respectfully disagree…I’d say I alone got at least 10 “pile on” negative responses when I posted some critical comments. Valbraz was hit in the same thread I remember. I think you notice it more when it happens to you
.
Guys…Kurt Bestor posted this pic from Prague…is one of those guys from Jive??
http://twitpic.com/b0vnj
JR….Thank you! I have reposted.
LittleM #269, the new guy is Sam Cardon.
http://www.samcardon.com/page4/files/bbe2747eaf77c0f5daa0cae06e01ccaf-7.html
Joymus #89, perhaps I am “trivia-gatherer extraordinaire!”
It’s good to find a lively and heated debate about substantive issues here. That’s what I love about TDC.
Now on to the issue of how David is going to increase and establish a fan base of young and not so young men. Right now David is “poison” to most young guys. Why? Because he is sexually inactive and has no immediate plans to become anything but. Unless you live in Utah, it seems, and you are a male over the age of 13, you care abot 2 things, sports and sex, not necessarily in that order. Young guys relate to each other based on those 2 pursuits. It’s safe to talk about, it has cache, and it distances them from their greatest fear, namely, being thought of as gay, as unfair as that is. David is not a guy that reinforces the mainstream stereotype of what a young guy wants to be. He’s actually a very happy 18 year old who does not want to “get laid”, although he is insanely good looking and could get any female he wants of any age group. In the eyes of young male America, David is either nuts or Adam Lambert. This does not sell CDs.
Elvis was adored by women but was also the guy that every other guy wanted to be. They wanted to look like him, dress like him, and just be him. They settled for buying his records, making Elvis and Col. Parker very happy.
The way David will get the guys onboard is not by being like them, it will be by having the way David is become the new “cool” and “studly”. This will not happen overnight but David is a powerful force. If anyone can get young guys to change their ways and feel good about it, it’s our boy David.
Back in March, I posted an article on this site called “Vive La Revolution” about the ways in which David is challenging the mores of young men. Feel free to read it.
desertrat-Very interesting piece of info.
thank you desertrat
DEBRA on #248 -- be that as it may, she is still the host of this gig. Half-way through this 45++ tour and she has not even acknowledged David or even KSM during her set. That is just basic courtesy. Otherwise, it is just plain rude.
David on the other gives props to KSM, then proceeds to rev up the crowd for her -- every night -- just before he sings You Can.
If David is taking the spotlight off her, she has no one to blame but her management and herself. But I doubt that cos the Disney machine is hyping her non-stop & to high-heavens.
But am still hoping that some of David’s abundance mentality rubs on her. Cos you know what? She has all these opportunities and she is not at all that talentless. Just not in David’s league lol
djafan #187:
I was on the edge of my seat reading your review, thrilled to read one so full of details! You didn’t just describe your adventure; you showed us how you were affected by it, and took us with you on the ride! Thank you for having the guts to do that, my friend!
TOfan, wonderful post and most definitely timely in more than in more ways than one!
Gran Fran, thank you for delurking to share with us your experience. I thoroughly enjoyed reading your every word.
djafan too! Lovely recap. I don’t tire of reading everyone’s experiences. Thank you for sharing.
SF #186, thank you as always for your perspective. Typically (and wisely I must say) when commenting, you say “IMO, as always” but for me, it’s kind of like, what you think and say is really what it is, and of course that’s my opinion
I won’t cover the what do I want FOR David as it REALLY will be redundant LOL! So what do I want from David? I am with davidfanLIZ in that my answer has changed over time.
A year ago, during the Idol tour, I too wanted to have a chance to meet him so I can simply say thank you to him and that was really all that I wanted. What more could I possibly want from him? Certainly not a personal relationship!
But my one chance to say hello to him didn’t materialize (horrible “barricade” situation at my Idol concert in San Jose) and as time went on, it seemed less and less likely I would ever get to meet him at all. In the meantime there was no shortage of wonderful fan stories of their meeting him, chatting with him, etc. I thought ‘what a contrast, boo hoo!’
Then, quite unexpectedly through a little drawing I did of him which was given to him through dfLIZ at her meet & greet with him, I “connected” with him, in a way. I never imagined that he actually would take a good look at it much less have a distinct reaction to it (according to his mother who told this to me when I met her 6 months later). So suddenly I got a tiny connection with him and I wasn’t above wanting a bit more. Those of you who say you want nothing at all from him, I think it’s very honorable and selfless.
SF, after my Sacramento recap, you posted “I hope you mentioned that YOU were the one who gave him the beautiful drawings of himself & his mom. He would have wanted to know, I am sure.” I sure hope you are right about this(!) because I wanted him to know! But afterwards I did feel a bit silly that I wanted him to know that more than take the half minute I had with him to just thank him. Well, I wanted both but it was extremely rushed.
Now the m&g is over, I am back to where I started last year. I don’t have anything more I want from him other than for him to share his music with his fans however he chooses to as long as he is happy and fulfilled.
in more ways than one! Sheesh I can’t speak properly. It’s late. Good night all! It’s been an interesting day or last couple of days!
djafan: Just wanted to say that I absolutely LOVED your recap of the VIP!! Thank you soooooo much! I love reading all the details regarding meeting David and would love even more -- no matter how minute!
Also, I do not know if I ever stated this before but……
I am captivated by David’s outer beauty. I think he is gorgeous,cute,sexy,manly,boyish….all wrapped up in one beautiful bod and he shamefully allows me to wish upon wish that I was 18 again!
I love his face.
There you go….you know who!
Thank you.
Hope you don’t find this repetitive but DENVER TOUR PAGE us up
http://www.thedavidchronicles.com/2009/05/denver-co-july-20-2009/
Early uploads on APOLOGIZE and CRUSH thanks to ThIsIsSaRaH25:
Evening everyone, I’m just popping in to say that I actually stayed for all of Demi’s set in Sacramento (well not the encore) and she did very briefly mention David and KSM. She said it in one breath so fast and quickly moved on that there was hardly time to respond to it.
One thing that I’ve noticed at the 3 concerts I attended, is that David isn’t shown on the screen to promote before the show starts and during intermission like KSM and Demi. And I don’t recall hearing his music played either. Could it be because Demi and KSM are Desney and David is not?
Thanks DJAFAN!
GOBOYWONDER -- if it is a canned VTR of Disney, then yes David would not be on it although inserting a clip of David should be a cinch. Me thinks it actually depends on the scriptwriter & director of the show.
Why AZOFF is not correcting the lack of such collateral is the angle am wondering about.
djafan -- thanks for your recap. It brought back the immensity of the accoustic performance. “…..how can anyone sing like this? That VOICE, his intensity, his falsettos, its soul piercing, all so overwhelming. At this point the money I paid was not enough, this and this alone is worth every penny.
Pretty much what I was trying to say but you said it ten times better -- esp. the “soul piercing”. In general, it seems that for most it was “breathtaking (not to be taken literally). It truly took my breath away and had to mentally remind myself to breathe. “…and this alone is worth every penny (consensus).
Another note -- you do have to have a concert ticket to attend the VIP. One family (mom & 2 daughters) had bought the VIP’s only. They had to go back outside and purchase the concert ticket. Thus I have decided for my next VIP, unless I can get in the first 3 rows, I don’t care if it is in the nosebleed section.
Checking for more Denver vids when I saw this video of a guy talking about the “David Archuleta & Demi Lovato Concert” -- yup that’s how he called it repeatedly, LOL.
It’s kinda mixed bag -- see what I mean (chuckles)
His entry in the description box: “Demi Lovato had a concert in Denver tonight! David Archuleta performed too (LOVE HIM, (totally the reason I went, don’t tell Demi ha) and it was all AMAZING! KSM, a new band of 5 girls I think two were they’re opening act, they sounded like No Doubt, and were good.
After the concert, (which I was pissed cause I didn’t bring get to bring my real camera so I was sad to not get good pictures) headed home in the HORRIBLE rain!!! Soon after though, we found out Demi wanted people to come chill with her at Paris on the Platte, this cool coffee shop. SO, we went back to Denver and met her and hung out for a while! She was really sweet! It was sad though cause we figured all the little girls would be gone since it was late and stuff, but there were still crazy fan girls there and yeah, they’re special. So we said hey to Demi, took pictures, stuck around a bit then ate some food ha. She hung till a little before midnight, then peaced out, taking a fleet of girls that’s numbers had been growing with her out the door haha. But yeah, she was really sweet! Sadly, no meeting David this time… But hopefully it’ll happen one day! GREAT night though! Loved every minute! Like me and Mikey were saying all night, THANK YOU JESUS!!! He totally made it happen, and I’m not even known to be religious, but oh yeah, he was so on our side lol. “
The ARCHUGAZE in top form in Vegas
Don’t you love waking up to something so heart popping? Good morring TDC!!!
granfan and djafan: Thanks so much for your recaps. They were like a breath of fresh air in this thread. So loved them. I was able to relive my own VIP time. That voice. That face. Heaven and Crazy! That experience.
sf, ha ha about your findings regarding Fashion Scarf! And I cringed too when I saw that twitter pic. Hopefully it was not an intro. to a major comeback.
hg, totally impressed by your summary of what’s been going on.
praepos: for me, you had been funny to follow in these latest two threads. I had frowned and I had laughed, I had mostly disagreed with you and some times agreed with you. But guess what, I am amazed that something real nice maybe coming out of all this. Wouldn’t it be a real progress for TDC if going forward, whenever there are points of views that are critical and non TDC main stream, but not against TDC guideline, instead of anybody showing the posters the boot or the door, we invite them to start a new thread here? Because, at the end, we all love David here. (Actually, a wise person suggested exactly that during the discussion of the impact of the Jeff incident on David’s career. Sorry, wise person, I have a blurry memory of who you are, but you know who you are. Borrowing David’s famous line here.)
To conclude, I want to thank all the devoted people who make this site resourceful and engaging. SO So so much hard work behind all this. Copying David, I say, cannot thank them enough.
jr,
this one actually tops the other one…… Ah, this kind of ARCHUGAZE…. far and infrequent.
JR, love that 6 seconds of Archuloveliness!
Good morning everyone!
I forgot to mention that, last night, I made a quick stop at the local Walmart and whose mug was all over the entrance and exits? None other than Demi Lovato. Seems like Disney is determined to make her the next big thing.
I just hope that, with these summer concerts, folks are recognizing her “talent” in the context of a real talent like David.
That latest twitpic is making me very nervous. I was excited about Kurt Bestor working with David, but seeing him hanging out with Jeff and Richard, I dunno…they seem so desperate to cling onto David, so I can’t help but question their musical skills in producing this Christmas album. You all know I want nothing but the best when it comes to David and his music.
Inevitably, David will have to find the courage to tell his dad to “beat it,” like Michael Jackson did, and even then it’s not going to be easy. In the case of MJ, he was blessed to find a different father figure in the shape of Quincy Jones to give him the impetus and courage to strike out on his own and away from family. Hopefully, David will find that type of music producer (and that’s about the only parallel between him and MJ that I’d like to see happen).
The Archugaze..oh my! I would love to know what she was saying to him that had him enraptured and looking like “I Only Have Eyes For You”…ahem!
I almost barfed again when I opened Bestors twitpic. The other twitpics have been removed and I expect this one will be removed really quick as well, unless Bestor refuses. He seems like he does what he wants when he wants. Unless the request comes from a VIP.
Also, about Demi having a little get-together at the restaurant…I don’t think David could EVER announce something like that. It would be total pandemonium. There would be chaos if David said..Hey everyone, meet me at ________! When he does come out after concerts, it’s after most of his fans have given up & gone.
All the above IMO!
Hey all! Thanks to any of you who tried to help the David trend when he hit 150K followers on twitter. A failed attempt (to get him to trend) but oh well. Think if I ever try to initiate something like that again, I’ll study the process, first.
Wanted to add: yesterday a friend cued me to check out some of Kurt Bestor’s previous work. IMO, he’s exceptionally talented. I bought “Stradivarius” and “Fishing the Sky.” Check him out on iTunes via a simple search.
David had a tweet-fest last night with fans all while he was watching “Ray”..see? He doesn’t ONLY watch cartoons! He watches really good movies too.
I wonder if David has EVER slept more than 3-4 hours at a time? I get exhausted just following him on the Internet!
Here is a video with music by both Kurt Bestor and Sam Cordon. I’m enthused about any music that these two might do in collaboration with David!
Why Bestor is traveling with Jeff and Richard is a mystery to me. I wonder if it was contractually worked out. In any case, I hope that David eventually tells both of them to beat it. Clingers-on are so common in these types of situations.
Wanted to correct my typo — Sam Cardon, rather than Cordon.
Praepos and Bliss, I appreciate reading the male perspective regarding David’s fandom and I think there are valid points made.
Speaking of male fans, the following recap by a middle-aged male fan (Robert) posted in FOD is a fantastic read (like djfan and other recappers here):
http://fansofdavid.com/?p=26036#more-26036
(I would cut and paste it here, but it may be too long for reposting. Adm?)
He talked about how the world stopped for the few minutes he spent with David and how spiritual the experience was for him. There is a lot of love expressed in that post -it’s gratifying to know certain kind of love knows no gender.
Granfan -- wheat bread? I that must have been something else!
bebe -- I want him to know how much joy and hope he gives us each and every day and that he really is changing the world, one fan at a time.
I think this is truly happening and thank you! I’m very detailed, probably from working with numbers all day….can you believe I shortened it? lol
bigsky -- Have you remembered?
Thank you vermeer!
Hey Jello! Thank you!….glad my details didn’t bore you….and yes that is some face….lol
SF -- Love that video….such a hearty laugh.
dawn #119 -- beautifully said!
hooked -- thanks for that post about scarves way up there, now I am going shopping for a scarf to go with my plad shirt and overalls. Hope to see you in Pittsburgh. How will I know you?
bahahahahahahahahahahahahah!
Hi Happy….welcome back!
fandaforever -- Thank you!
It truly took my breath away and had to mentally remind myself to breathe.
He does take your breath away, first with his stunning beauty and then goes in for the kill with that soul piercing VOICE…
peruu -- thank you…David feels like a breath of fresh air!
Kathy -- we tried… I tweeted and tweeted…
SF -- I have a grown brother who’s favorite movie is Happy Feet and Red Dawn, completely opposite types of movies. My other brothers are the same way, and so is my son, my son in law, and my husband…. this doesn’t mean they’re dealing with any type of childhood trauma…that’s to general of a statement to state it as fact. I know, I’ve worked with people who’ve had childhood trauma.
And please all remind him to sleep when you have your VIP!
So for Pittsburgh,looks like we have SF (and her sister), djfan, hooked, and myself. Who else from TDC would I have the pleasure of meeting?
Nice little review from LiveDaily in Sac:
“David Archuleta [ tickets ] is living proof it’s not about who wins but how you play the game. Despite being runner-up on last year’s “American Idol”--reportedly earning 44 percent of 97 million-plus votes--the experience obviously helped the young man transform from a shy “boy next door” to a full-fledged performer.”
Quite like the sound of “full-fledged performer.” The best part of the article is that it comes with a beautiful slide show of photos of David taken by a staff photographer. Here is the link:
http://www.livedaily.com/news/19682.html
(No mention or photo of Demi in the story. Interesting.)
Just got an e-mail reply from the new venue in Grand Rapids, MI:
“Thanks for your email. Our apologies if you tried to contact us by telephone; we are having service on our system that is unrelated to a the inquiries we are receiving, about a possible booking of David Archuleta. We expect to have phones back later today. I can only confirm that we are delighted to be in negotiations with Mr. Archuleta about a possible appearance at Wealthy Theatre in mid-August, and we are hopeful we can announce a date soon. Nothing is final at this time. We will announce any such appearance first through the Grand Rapids Press, via Twitter and online at http://www.grcmc.org. There are links to the /wealthytheatre Twitter at http://www.grcmc.org
Pre-sales would be online at wealthytheatre.org if/when the booking were confirmed. We are a general admissions venue, and a proud service of Community Media Center.”
new e-mail from venue:
“Hope we have something definite in Twitter very soon about the possible booking!”
*runs off to Twitter*