It is no secret that at certain times in certain quarters, certain factions of the fan base can allow their hormones to get the best of them and express in commentary certain, shall we say, observations and interests regarding David. Physical appeal is a significant and legitimate aspect of many popular performers, and when it accompanies truly remarkable talent, it is virtually impossible to discount the power of the total, well, package.
It would be senseless and unnatural to make a pretense of avoiding the obvious sensuality that attractive performers embody, but in public commentary tone matters. Tone — that somewhat elusive synthesis of language, attitude and intent — makes the difference between a laugh and a cringe, and the line between them is not only delicate but often subject to opposing and equally legitimate interpretation. That’s why it makes sense to err on the side of caution. A good rule of thumb for evaluating tone might be this: If it’s a wink, it’s probably okay; if it smacks of anything like heavy breathing, reconsider.
Some argue that because David himself is especially modest and not currently selecting material or making displays of overt sensuality (at least not consciously), his fans ought to conform to what may seem like a narrower set of standards than what might be considered culturally common. I think this argument has merit, and fans would do well to consider it. But by the same token, an artist has no more right to expect his audience to change their morays on his behalf, than the public would expect him to change on theirs. Respect goes both ways.
Others suggest that objectification has no place whatsoever in the appreciation of an artist like David, whose central power is acknowledged to be a deep emotional, even spiritual connection between the performer and the audience. I would argue that it is impossible to remove objectification from adoration, even if that adoration is purely platonic. There exists in any fan-artist paradigm an endemic aspect of objectification. The problem, it seems to me, occurs when the point of the exercise becomes objectification itself, rather than acknowledging that it is merely part of a greater whole. Surely there have been comment sequences on many fan sites wherein the point of the exercise seemed suddenly to veer quite exclusively in a less wholesome direction, but I think this kind of thing needs to be seen in context with the larger trajectory of a fan’s participation and expression. For every comment made about David’s indisputably handsome thighs, it is reasonable to assume that there were hundreds of comments made by the same fan about David’s inarguably miraculous voice. Context matters, perspective counts.
Is there disrespect involved in the occasional appreciation of his beauty as a member of the human species? In general I think not, although it depends on how and in what context it is expressed. I have found precious few examples of fan commentary that I felt sunk to the level of creepy prurience. The vast majority of it is bawdy, silly hilarity that breaks out over a particularly appealing photograph or a series of creative innuendos. This kind of repartee is admittedly not for everyone, but neither does it stand out as a categorical offense against common decency or against David himself. These episodes might not be the best examples of what a serious fan might have to offer, but not every facet of what is appealing about David exists in the high-minded realm of spirituality, either. Although there is arguably a spiritual dimension to almost everything David sings, he doesn’t confine his material to church music. He sings about love and attraction, and these topics have a decidedly sensual aspect to them.
For me, respecting David means taking him seriously as an artist. I dare say a far greater number of David’s fans are guilty of transgressing this particular tenet than any other. Squealing about how cute he is may not be overtly sensual, but it is nevertheless a focus on the physical. And the all-too common practice of using childish language, infantile pet names, and blatant nannying can be just as cringe-worthy as a tactless reference to sex appeal. In my view, this puerile reduction compromises his ability to be taken seriously considerably more than admiring how his body moves. If treating David like a sex symbol is at one extreme on the respect meter, then coddling him like a precious child is on the other, and both are equally indictable.
Fans must make their own decisions, of course, about where they feel comfortable participating. But I would urge those who have differing views about what is appropriate to resist allowing their judgment to extend to other fans, and especially to the sites that facilitate open discussion. Due to the resources needed for aggressive comment moderation, the categories for such interference are commonly limited to things like hate speech and personal attacks. Each site has different guidelines about what is considered appropriate and inappropriate from a topic standpoint, so it makes sense to review those guidelines periodically.
Most important, however, is to remember that administrators in a fan site community are generous volunteers, not professional editors, publishers, or gatekeepers. It is up to everyone to take responsibility for the tone and tenor of the comment threads, and for the community to police itself. Blaming a site for what one may consider the bad behavior of a handful of members is tantamount to killing the messenger; just because a site may contain mentions of a certain nature doesn’t mean that that’s what the site is about. If you encounter something you don’t like, participate. Make a reasoned, rational, compelling argument, leave personal judgment aside, and help turn the direction of the commentary onto a new path.
Sensuality is a rich and wonderful part of life. The fact that David is so modest and inexperienced about such things not only sets him apart from his professional peers, it can’t help but make these aspects of his persona that much more intriguing. It is exciting to contemplate what a wellspring of artistic opportunity David has in these dimensions of the human experience, and what might ensue when he starts to mine them. He has barely scratched the surface, when other artists of his ilk have already plumbed the depths and scaled the heights. I do think we need to take our cues from David in this regard. But anyone who believes that he hasn’t already started letting out some rope on this, whether intentionally or not, is not watching very closely…
–Rascal
FYI on Dallas videos, Myka08 just uploaded HD & upclose footage of DA’s performances. They are posted in our Tour Page already for easier reference in the future. But here are a couple of samples of her uploads:
MY HANDS HD & upclose
COMO LA FLOR HD
MYKA says “the girls at this concert were vicious…” LOL
Archuleta was in mighty fine form last night. Great, amazing job DA!
Valbraz #147 YES YES YES I had forgotten about Love Me Tender!
ronaldsf thanks for that review. I had not seen before.
SF…I just asked my daughter to make a call for me while she is busily texting and to put it on speaker phone…So there was David singing to her…so to speak…I think she likes him…
She didn’t complain! Thanks for the mention of the message…
SB
OH…MY…HECK!!! I shoulda put this one up! WHEW!
JR you are simply amazing. thanks for organizing all the videos!
Been away and come back to that HD My Hands, JR have you no regard for my safety??? 😉
Was planning on catching up, but must rewatch … is it my imagination or is that song taking on a life of its own? Like some kind of crazy enchanted redwood with soulful roots, and rocketing branches up through the clouds… ok, I’m done.
*waves to awestruck*
Nothing yet from Tulsa, other than some tweets from concert-goers who happen to be Demi fans and who have fallen under David’s spell! And that he’s wearing..yup, you guessed it..plaid! 😆 I have to say Hasta la vista and..
Buenas noches a todos. Y para Davi…(just practicing my Spanish..
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!
ronaldsf #148
Now that’s a fair review of His Hotness’ performance! LOL!
I think this part bears repeating, ‘… and practically sexually assaulted the cameraman his performance was so impassioned.’
But Mr. O’Connor, he’s only seventeen?!
Angelofda # 154
Where’s Funnygirl?
I love it when she cries, ‘Lord, have mercy!’
I hope this is not disrespectful.
What happened in the twitter voting??!! something isn’t right I would daresay.
Hey TOfan!
video clip of david & his cousin on a roller coaster. looks like his sister behind them.
Just got back from the concert! All I can say at this tine is….OMFG! I CANNOT wait til the next concert.
He was sooooo adorable tonight-had to tie his shoe inbetween songs-apologized as usual!
I just absolutely love him.
Plaid AGAIN! UGH!
Hair seemed to have alot of gel goin’ on.
Sweatin’ like a p**!
Love him!
Gotta go to work!
Bye!
Would like to say:
I shall ALWAYS go see David perform at ANY venue he is playing and whomever he is touring with @ the time. I shall ALWAYS support him and his career -- ALWAYS. I have never adored an artist like this before Him.
However, I must admit I definitely feel soooo spoiled from his solo tour and do much prefer smaller, more intimate venues where he is the only performer. I had dead center seat 9 rows back. Very close.
He was just awesome (such an overused word!)
I am gobsmacked yet again.
Help….I am drowning in Archumadness!!
How in the world can I work tonight???
Jello: Yep -- sounds like you just got back from a David concert LOL. awesome. Gobsmacked (or Archusmacked as some would say), drowning, spoiled, adore, and the newest…OMFG. 😉
Glad you had a good time! We’ll look forward to further report!
#159 TAWNA21 -- I HAVE BEEN VOTING ALL DAY AT WORK AND EVEN BROUGHT NY LAPTOP HOME TO VOTE. IT SEEMS THAT WHEN I SUBMIT MY VOTE IT COUNTS AS TWO!!!! DAVID IS WAY BEHIND IN THE SOLO COMPETITION BUT WITHIN 300 VOTES IN THE TWITTER. I CAN’T BELIEVE I AM DOING THIS.
NEVER MIND -- MY VOTE COUNTED AS ONE NOW.
randomocity…
momJulee -- “And I also know that I can’t help but love anyone else who loves David” -- me too!
ronald -- awwww. He does have a way of making us all mushy inside.
angelofdja -- Looove Love Me Tender, thanks for posting that, I did not see it on the list previously! I wonder if Bliss has seen that. If I remember, he is a huge fan of David’s LMT.
Tofan -- seems like he is taking just about every song to another level, again! Aye yie yie! I hadn’t been a big fan of “You Can”, but on this tour I am loving it.
jello -- lol. So, you enjoyed your evening?
hooked -- ride it as long as you can!
And for those of you who commented on the video I posted, I cannot take credit for it, wish I could. I thought they did a great job and I just wanted to share it.
TOfan on #156 -- what can I say (chuckles) I aim to please 🙂
With an offering like David Archuleta, how can you go wrong?
WRT to appreciating David…
It is not easy being an Archie. The artist-fan relationship is a work-in-progress as David matures into his skin and into his music. On this site I vaccillate between being fangirly to a serious/wacko supporter (yes, seriously wacko given the time spent on him!). But there are times when am caught in this breath-catching/knee-buckling stupor. With David, it cannot be helped.
But that is why I chose this site, this community. I know that things posted here will be taken by the regular participants with a context much greater than David’s cuteness factor. I have enjoyed the sharings as they have enriched my DA experience.
David brings us to glorious heights with his lush voice; plumbs the depths of our emotions with his gripping music; touches our soul with his generous spirit; awes us with his mere presence and Heaven help us, gobsmacks us with his impassioned and ever evolving performance. Then… he tickles us with his candor and randomness.
Pretty much like the TDC community.
The catalytic effect of his music and public persona are both deeply ambient. At times David is cerebral and delicate, but not fragile. Then he turns seething with a captured charge that slowly burns itself into one’s psyche. Slowly but surely..
At times, I find TDC in such varying stages. What a ride, indeed!
Here’s to David Archuleta: Saving Fans from Boring Artists
And to TDC: Saving Archies from Bland FanSites!
JR -- WOOT!
desertrat#112 -- Yes -- Seattle! My hometown & closest to my current residence (for hubbys sake). You are so kind, thanks for asking. Will be going alone, however. All the best seats were snatched up so quickly & all I could get was a single in center section, row 15. Hopefully, this is close enough. It is VIP -- getting anxious about that, though. Not sure how or if I can handle seeing DA up close. I can picture myself backing up (like Dawn) until no one else is behind me. Just wanted to hear the acoustic performance, didn’t realize I might be able to meet him.
highervibe {{{{waves back}}}}} a day later haha!
I’m loving all the close up vids from Dallas. What voice, the bounce in his steps!! He does look older. Is that what plaids do for you?! Looks like he is having lots of fun with KSM too, riding in Kate’s scooter! In 10 days, I will finally meet David for the first time, after seeing him perform live 6 times. OMGosh, I can’t even imagine what it would be like to stand in front of him. Thank you to all that provided the wonderful stories. We truly are so lucky to be his fans, aren’t we?!
JELLO #162 -- Great to hear you had a blast. Looking forward to your stories -- am sure you have a lot! 🙂
FANDAFOREVER -- I have texted a number of rabid’s friends to relay your message 🙂
JR -- thanx for that! Would love to contact rabid re copy of his/her art. Also thanx for the vids from Myka08. Definitely some of the best closeups & audio quality. His Como la Flor is soooo good. Don’t know what he’s saying but love the way he says/sings it. Oooohhhhh………..
SF -- could you do a loose (english) translation of the words to Como la Flor? Pretty please?
Marlie -- those AI7 HD vids are so lifelike (HD at it’s best). He’s coming right out of the screen. First thought they were the iTunes version but much better quality and don’t have the AI logo attached to it. Hopefully, they keep adding new vids. What a treat!
For those lovin the AI7 HD vids, love the Think of Me vid. Must have just been added along with Love Me Tender. I loved that song. Not sure what it sounded like originally. Did he not change it up completely (re original composer/mentor’s comments)? Love his outfit, too. Sucker for shirt & tie! Nice jacket, too. Doesn’t hurt that his face is so strikingly beautiful, either.
I apologize for being so out of touch with the whole music thing -- ignorance, I guess. David is like a conoisseur of music. Makes me feel like I’m a preschooler -- just not familiar with anything put out the last 15-20 years or more. Like music amnesia. The last time music moved me must have been 35 years ago -- a lifetime for most, I’m sure.
1st 2 vids from TULSA thanks to xoPKJ2xo:
YOU CAN
APOLOGIZE
plaid again LOL!
Hey Valbraz -- Sorry to inform you that God has just officially run out of Mercy. Dang it. Now what are we supposed to do?
Those HD vids from DisneySG are just too much. Gahhhh the memories. He is so brilliantly talented and beautiful beyond description.
This morning, on a whim, before running off to skewl, I have decided to join the blog revolution and start my own blog:
http://ronaldsf.wordpress.com
My object? To get myself to start writing again. Y’allz inspired me with your feedback and I know now I don’t need a publisher to elicit… a reaction lol.
Also, perhaps David’s latest wisdom had a part in this. Don’t know.
But yeah, feel free to stop by and leave a comment. Would be nice to have a reader or two! lol
Good Morning ~
Can we get a new petition going ? The plaid invasion must end. Whoever is due to see him .. PLEASE .. gently nudge him out of the rut. We’ll NEVER know which show is which. He’s resurrecting Sayerville and Tribeca and DelMar .. I don’t know which show is which anymore !!!
For those who might be curious about Como La Flor translated, here you go..the song was written especially for Selena by her brother Abe, and was probably her biggest hit, but I don’t really know…
yo se que tienes un nuevo amor
sin embargo te deseo lo mejor
si en mi no encontraste felicidad
tal vez alguien mas
te la dara
como la flor
como la flor
con tanto amor
con tanto amor
me diste tu
se marchito
se marcho hoy
yo se perder
pero ay como me duel
ay como me duele
si vieras como duele perder tu amor
junto a dios te llevas mi corazon
no se si pueda volver a amar
porque te di todo el amor que pude dar
como la flor
como la flor
con tanto amor
con tanto amor
me diste tu
se marchito
se marcho hoy
yo se perder
pero ay como me duele
ay como me duele
como la flor
como la flor
con tanto amor
con tanto amor
me diste tu se marchito
se marcho hoy
yo se perder
pero ay como me duele
ay como me duele
ay como me duele
************************************************************
I know you have
A new love
Nevertheless
I wish you the best
If in me you found no
Happiness
Perhaps someone else
Will give it to you
Like the flower (Like the flower)
With so much love (With so much love)
You gave me
It withered
Today I leave
I know how to lose
But oh, how it hurts me
Oh, how it hurts me
If you were to see how it hurts
To lose your love
With your farewell you take with you my heart
I don’t know if I’ll be able
To love again
Because I gave you all the love I could give
Like The Flower….
This is the part David sings:
como la flor
con tanto amor
con tanto amor
me diste tu
se marchito
se marcho hoy
yo se perder
pero ay como me duele
ay como me duele
Translation:
Like the flower (Like the flower)
With so much love (With so much love)
You gave me
It withered
Today I leave
I know how to lose
But oh, how it hurts me
Oh, how it hurts me
dawn, I really have the feeling, I dunno, but just a feeling David may leave the plaid alone for the LA Nokia performance. I just have a feeling. 😉
I think David feels comfortable with the long shirts and he happens to like plaid..they’re colorful. He does wear tees for the VIP’s though, so it’s not like he doesn’t have OTHER clothes with him. He’s just wearing what he prefers right now…maybe saving some “special” clothes for what he feels are special venues, like the Nokia Theater in LA. Patience is key…you know what I’m talkin’ about. (it was a “small” right?) 😆
Peace out for now!
Random -- does anyone know anything about the BLUE RING David wore in Grand Prairie! Just curious.
Good morning everyone! Ronaldsf, welcome to the blogosphere! 🙂
You should create a link to it from your screen name like some of us have done.
silverfox…thank you for giving the translation of Selena’s song and the stanza that David sings.
I enjoy your take on David and his liking of plaid shirts…
Watch out David, your plaid wardrobe will increase to unmeasurable size if the fans keep giving you plaid shirts to wear…
I must get busy, July 28th is not far away…
SB
Hiya SF 8) miss you honey.
Seriously ~ I hope he’s home for this two day break ~ swapping out clothes. I don’t know if it’s all the plaid, or so much recycling. But I don’t know, do KSM and Demi wear the same outfits for each show?
OhEmGee .. why do I care.. LOL. Seriously.. without the world of youtube, we’d never know what he wore venue to venue.
I will bear with his plaid obsession. It’s like his twitter addiction. He just can’t help himself.
But seriously ..hoping he’s on a plane somewhere .. heading home for a couple days. It’s easier to fly to Arizona from Utah than it is from Oklahoma.. but then again.. who knows if anyone is home there .. they may all still be in Georgia.. LOL.
I can’t keep up. His schedule makes me dizzier than I already am. 8)
SB..yes! July 28th..BIG DAY for those who will be seeing David in a very intimate venue once again…FINALLY!! There are still tickets available as well as VIP’s, but will be S/O very soon. I’m wondering who will be “opening” for him?
Also, we have a two day “David drought”…oh my, what will we ever do?? David, I hope will keep in touch via twitter. Does he have any promos scheduled? I know Demi has been doing the radio promos, cuz after all IT IS HER TOUR! But at the same time, it’s given David a respite from all the B/S that he’s asked about and it may be a really GOOD thing he’s not doing interviews with crappy DJ’s now as there most likely would be those insensitive jerks who will ask insensitive questions, and I don’t mean about GF’s or his FK (first kiss). And besides, David seems to be having a great time just playing (riding a scooter) and going from venue to venue.:D
About the blue band he’s wearing on his left hand? I am SURE he will be asked about it at the next VIP, if not before by twitter, as the whole Archu-Universe is dying to know! Not me though. I couldn’t care less. Ahem!
Dawn..I didn’t think about him flying home for these couple of days..you may be right. Daniel was the only one in GA, but he’s home now. Like I said before, Daniel is a twittering fool..he tweets about what he’s doing just about every minute. Never mentions big brother though (he did say one time
“ugh, David fans taking pictures of our house again”). And David wasn’t even home. It must be hard on the family sometimes
I think a big reason that David has been in such “good voice” this tour is because he hasn’t had to do all those radio interviews so he’s well rested vocally and physically.
continued from 187…
having to put up with fans invading their privacy. Daniel & cousin Vanessa have their own thing going and just will not say anything about David, but Daniel has mentioned Demi. I guess I just find it odd that they don’t promote David with at least a “he was awesome” when they went to the concert in Atlanta..but maybe they did and I missed it.
THANK YOU sf for the Como La Flor translation!
Random thought, I wonder if David would go to the Michael Jackson tribute in LA on his days off?
SF .. “ugh, David fans taking pictures of our house again”). And David wasn’t even home. ”
I have too many opinions on this to even touch it. Someone needs to take his computer away and make him do something productive. There’s trouble brewing in that cup.
Since it’s all quiet .. I think David probably went home ~ which would be great.. he gets to hang with friends while he’s home ~ that makes me happy. He has good friends.
There could be possible trouble for me if I go ahead and post this..
OK.
I have an observation..
this observation is LOADED with humor PLEASE!
….Davids’ dad told him he hated plaid…
joner…good thought about David being able to rest his voice. The interview sharks with all their various non musical questions could be on occassion quite tiring.
Wherever David has gone (and isn’t it nice for him that we don’t always know), he may have some privacy in these next two days…
This day is for Michael J.
SB
angelofda #194…If that is the case, wear plaid to your heart’s content young fellow, three cheers for plaid!
Good Day All!
SF -- I think it is a concious decision on their part to not say anything much about David. It could be for privacy reasons but most of all I believe they are trying to forge their own identity -- out from under the large shadow of David. Daniel recently launched his own twitter site exclusively for him and he has tweeted previously that he would like to make it in the music business. I’m not gonna rain on his dream.
Dawn -- with regard to the point you raised #192 -- no comment. Nuff said!
Angelofda -- Lol! Who knows? Maybe?
Joner, hmmmmmmmmmm, I don’t think so..but ya never know.
angelofdja..now that is funny! 😆
David may very well be on the bus on his way to Glendale, but if he went home or wherever, he will be sighted and we will hear about it…or David himself will send us a message when he feels the need to connect with his very devoted fans who always feel the need to know where he is and if he’s happy and doing OK.
SF -- he missed his blog date with us so he may write one today maybe along with his thoughts on MJ.
dawn65 #192, Oh boy…yup…some can-o’-worms there!
There is that thing called: Sibling rivalry.
My prayer is that it is a healthy competition.
Well, there is a movie on yt…Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid…but that is too poor a movie to show you and there is a video of a song…Plaid is a Fad…but that it is too awful to show you…
But hey, plaid is good!!!
SB
Oh Joymus, pardon my insensitivity…I know Daniel is trying to do things on his own..but even so, I guess if it were MY bother who had accomplished as much a David has in such a short time, I would be ever so proud and I would praise him to the roof-tops every chance I got! But that’s just me. As I said, it must be hard on siblings and other relatives of the famous to be in their shadow. Especially when they have the same aspirations of fame & glory. Daniel has a big mountain yet to climb. As the little brother of David who has a Voice of an angel and the looks of an Adonis..I do feel for Daniel, even if it may not seem like it.
I wanted to slip in and apologize, I should not have commented on the above. I have no interest in anyone other than David and his success. The last time David’s fans became personally invested in a family member ~ it had a horrible outcome.
I will take my cues from David.. if he wants me to show interest in his family, I will, but I think he goes above and beyond to keep his family life, personal .. as it should be.
Again .. I’m sorry .. I should not have posted that. That’s also why I initially was going to write a letter to his family member that requested something along that line, and opted out on it. Out of respect for David .. anything he ASKS .. I’m on it …but I’m taking his silence on subjects .. as my cue to respond accordingly.
I think that stems from like I said.. the “hero worship” .. that can lead to very tricky situations.
angelofdja, #194 — source, please?
SF -- I also agree with you that he could tweet a word of praise every now and again.
Even though David’s voice is better than ever, perhaps for him/them there is no “newness” having grown up with this voice all along -- so they seem blase about it all. The whole family’s fate is now indeliably linked to David’s and we have seen recently just how loud the reverbations can be at times. I guess in time as David grows and evolves we may care less and less about who in his family is geetting married or going to college etc.
BTW..one more thing then I really have to work as that is what I’m paid to do instead of doing what I’m doing…huh??? never mind.
We forgot that David is trying to get not one, but two albums out in the next..Six months?? So perhaps that’s what he will be doing these next couple of days..writing and maybe recording too. I would bet that’s what he’s doing. 😉
Peace out. Bye!
of course you’re right SF ~ multitasking to the max.
If I ever had the time, I’ve always been interested in sitting down to try to figure out how many hours and miles he’s logged since first stepping into that room belting out WOTWTC.
He works extremely hard .. from what I can see .. a lot harder than most. He’s literally had a handful of sporadic days off over the last year and half. Even I get paid vacation. He does not.
This dream he chases .. comes packed with much sacrifice. That’s why we have to do right by him… always.
Rascal, I respectfully can only say…it came from my personal thoughts. You may, if so inclined, accept my apoligies for being so quick to hit submit on a subject that I KNEW could only get me sent to the corner.
(dang-it, the first time in 2 years I get a response from “our Leader, and it’s for possible discipline)! GAH!
Oh angelofdja haha! I think it was curiosity rather than discipline! 🙂
davidfanLIZ,
I HOPE SO!
Off to class. See Ya…
Except to “ditto” a combination of what Joner and Emmiegirl said, which is:
“rascal, needed and appreciated. Thank you.
The immense love and admiration and respect we have here for David as a person and as an artist, in my mind, is never questioned.
Is it playful banter or disrespect; is it righteousness or the ultimate respect? I appreciate the reminder and the opportunity to consider both.”
AND
“I’m afraid to say anything so I think I’ll just *wave*. 😉
I’ll only add:
Rascal, what an amazing post. Man. (They always are. You could write about freaking tax preparation, I swear, and I’d be a little weak in the knees afterward. lol. In a GOOD way.) You make me pause and reflect upon our year-plus and ongoing “response” to one David Archuleta. And, phewee, what a ride. WHO KNEW? (I can guarantee you I most certainly did not know.) Thanks for a great article, beautifully written.
Now I need to run catch up on the bottom half of this thread!
PS, Rabid’s latest is positively GORGEOUS. Whoa!
As far as folks taking pictures of the house, how can individuals complain when another individual gave out the address to fans?
freo freo freo .. you’re making this hard on me.
hahahahahahahahaha
For anyone that’s interested.. David’s fans .. are awesome people .. they are fanatic..but respectful.. they are not invasive (well I’ve seen a few random acts of crazy at some venues .. and by people that should know better) .. but 99% of them .. their heart is in the right place. Anyone that criticized David’s fans.. doesn’t get it .. and never will.
SF--I agree about Daniel. It must be hard for him to have his brother’s shadow and also his father away for months at a time. Someone asked Daniel if he was going to any more concerts, and he said the only reason he went to the GA concert was because his family was going, and I thought that was a h*** of a thing to say publicly. But when I put myself in his shoes, it helps me to understand.
Finally got caught up and had a chance to give your thought-provoking post a thorough read, Rascal. One sentence that puzzled me was, “But I would urge those who have differing views about what is appropriate to resist allowing their judgment to extend to other fans, and especially to the sites that facilitate open discussion.”
And yet your judgment about what is appropriate seems to extend to fans who use “childish language, infantile pet names, and blatant nannying”?
I hope you’re not suggesting that discussion is open except for those who have “differing views on what is appropriate.”
The more I travel the worldwide web, the more I value the respectful tone and intent of the majority of posters here. Threads may ebb and flow (sometimes the waters are calm and contemplative, other times a tsunami of swooning), but the equator, for me, seems to be a warm, welcoming space to share the love and appreciation of David and his music.
TOfan — It’s simple, really: Judge the behavior, not the person. What I criticized was the language, the names, the nannying — not the people who produced it.
I am and shall always be an equal opportunity offender …
And the all-too common practice of using childish language, infantile pet names, and blatant nannying can be just as cringe-worthy as a tactless reference to sex appeal.
Yep.. that’s me.
i.e. bb is smokin
bwahhhh
okay.. ok .. ok ..
just saying 8)
if nothing else, you can count on my to be honest… always 8)
dawn65 #218 — See now, to me, “smokin'” is a perfectly reasonable way to refer to someone’s ability to turn up the heat. That little acronym term of endearment, however… Well, that’s another story.
And let me just add: Honesty has its merits, but it is not without its consequences.
Rascal .. Honesty has its merits, but it is not without its consequences.
now ain’t THAT the truth.
If you are open to smokin … you must be open to bb. Just because you aren’t particularly fond of it ~ using it in my post above is an example of both extremes.
Whereas we (collectively you and I), are comfortable with “smokin” , it can and is offensive to others. For whatever reason .. some people are more comfortable coddling him .. and are not comfortable seeing him in any way as a sexual being. Other’s may not be comfortable as seeing him as childlike, to be cuddled and babied.
Everything is about perception. And furthermore ~ conveying true intent through written word ~ is tricky business. We can use caps, and punctuation to try to get what we are “saying” across the http://www... but this can prove to be quite challenging for someone that relies heavily on tone and inflection.
bb … may read .. infantile … but is that how I meant it?
ahhh.. you make my head hurt .. 😉
“This dream he chases .. comes packed with much sacrifice. That’s why we have to do right by him… always.”
Oh, dawn65. You said it perfectly. I hesitated to go see David on this tour because of the Disney connection. Then I decided not only did I really want to see him, regardless of Disney, but I really wanted to support him in this. I’m so glad I did. My son immediately said he would happily go see David again, even if he had to sit next to an 8-year-old girl--bleh! AND, the best part is, when I showed my husband videos of the Dallas performances, he jumped on the David train, too. So for David’s next tour--we are ALL going!
Xaris, I agree with you completely. My girls love David but wanted to see Demi too. If I had been alone I would have left after David sang but I had to stay for Demi. I was in such an “Archustupor” that it didn’t really matter -- I just sat there with a huge smile on my face and relived the whole thing in my mind!!!
yeah xaris ~ perhaps David doesn’t know, and he doesn’t need to know how many of us made that leap for him .. going to the disney infected arena is slightly jarring ~ but I too, am glad I made the leap.
He’s delivering.. so we owe him that. I even bought a CD at the merchandise table ~ because ~ well ~ anything we can do ~ we have to do. And I gifted it, by the end of the night ~ new fan converted ~ my daughter’s friend was seriously impressed ~ and never heard of him before. Yeah for new FANS !!
I had to giggle to myself when he sent a tweet to someone that said they estimate it cost them $400 to go to 3 concerts for him. He tweeted Wow, that’s a lot !! Oh David .. if you only knew.. and he really doesn’t. I WISH !!!! I will have seen him 9 times in 2009. (oh sign material .. cool) .. but no matter what I pay .. it’s worth EVERY red cent. Point me in the direction of the VIP line. I’m there 8)
Our boy is watching MJ memorial…from where, bus, hotel or home? Who knows? David’s latest tweet…
I love Stevie wonder. Watching the Michael Jackson memorial. 58 mins ago
SF ~ hard to say .. demi is staying in Dallas for her two days off, she got there early this morning. I’m thinking that’s NOT where David went, but MAYBE back to his aunts? Where ever he is ~ he’s watching something important to him. This makes me happy too.
So glad David is able to watch the MJ memorial. I agree the Stevie Wonder tribute was incredible! Boy, I thought I had a handle on my emotions until Michael Jackson’s daughter started speaking. 🙁
I watched MJ’s memorial and agree with David. I LOVE Stevie Wonder, too. His speaking voice is o sweet.
Most performances didn’t do their best though as they were all overcome with emotion, the exception being Shareen, the British boy singer from Britain’s Got Talent. He blew them all away with his self-confidence, soul and powerful voice. Is it destiny that puts a boy in front of billions of viewers around the world or is it a tremendous sense of opportunity from his management? I don’t mean to be rude or judgemental but I can’t help but wonder.
I was touched by MJ’s brother’s account of spotting Michael at a CD shop in disguise. Bittersweet. And I think everything was dignified and appropriate. I was pleasantly surprised.
HG,
I cried a lot all the time, from Mariah striving through the first part of the song to Gordy’s speech and then, of course, Michael’s family closing the memorial.
Me, too. I was a mess after his daughter spoke. The whole memorial was well done, especially given the little time they had to put it together, and so moving. It was a privilege to watch it.
4am here. Watched MJ’s memorial -- tears the whole time. Then I switch channels and what do I find? TMH on our MYX channel lol David never fails to lift me up 🙂
We have several vids up in the TULSA Page
https://www.thedavidchronicles.com/2009/05/tulsa-ok-july-06-2009/
HG, I’m so glad you made it to the end of the memorial. I lost it from Mariah singing -I’ll Be There -- and it kept pouring on and off till the very end when it got worse and I cried a heck of a river.
I thought of David all through and I could see so clearly the influence of Michael on his singing. It was also chilling to realize that most of the major performers were ones who have impacted David the most as an artiste.
When Shameen? (Britain’s Got Talent) sang -- Who’s Loving You it was so poignant because it reminded me of David on Star Search , Stevie Wonder, John Mayer, Jennifer Hudson to name a few.
It really makes you stop and appreciate the fact that all performers share a link to each other no matter the genre. They must also possess the uncanny ability to soldier on to the end of a song despite all that is happening happy or sad circumstances, sickess or health. Amazing Grace indeed.
Valbraz, I teared up at different moments -- from Stevie Wonder to Brooke Shields overcome with emotions to Marlon Jackson speaking through his sobs, but it was Paris crying because she misses her daddy that really had me sobbing like a baby! :'(
Just a very heartfelt service throughout. Well done, AEG!
I tell ya, it’s nothing like the “circus” and “chaos” the media was predicting it would be. Sometimes, they need to just chill.
And the city of LA acting so repugnant and tacky, telling his various fans to stay away because they can’t “handle” the crowds, Pfffft!
What are they, some provincial small town or something? You’d think they were not a cosmopolitan city. Then again, I’m a New Yorker so maybe my standards are higher.
Anyway, it was a lovely tribute! 🙂
Different things make different folks cringe.
To say that calling him “bb” only serves (unwittingly I am certain) to dismiss or negate everything David has earned and deserves by way of respect for his ENORMOUS talent, his outstanding strength of character, his utterly irresistible charm, and the downright inspiring way he muscles through this journey he’s on is… well, it’s a valid opinion. I agree with it, and so I don’t call him that. But I’ve never doubted the genuine love and complete appreciation the bb contingency has for David and I love them,too. Personally, I don’t, however, happen to think this practice has any significant negative effect on his overall public image or ultimate success, any more than I think expressions of motherly concern or irrepressible excitement over his undeniable “hawtness” do. I just don’t happen to see him as a “bb.” He’s way too big, to me, for that particular term of endearment. Not a fit for me.
However, I AM guilty of things like the “My Girl” M-G-R. Hey, what can I say, he makes me giddy with joy and happiness just by being himself. Just as his knee-buckling musical prowess and his blinding beauty move me to unspeakable happiness, so does his ruthlessly disarming boyish adorableness factor. I can’t and don’t want to parse him. He’s the real deal and a powerful and complex organic whole. A true powerhouse. He assaults me from all angles, bringing on ALL of his awesomeness at once, because he carries all of that with him wherever he goes. That’s “just David”…being himself. And, boyhowdy, he is moz def more than the sum of his parts.
I am doomed.
What we do and say in response to David is a mirror on ourselves more than anything else. Overall, I rather like the reflections I see and LOVE the diversity that embraces David. That, alone, is a tribute to him.
Speaking of reflections, oh how I would love for David to cover “Man in the Mirror.” Phew
(I am never really sure if I am making sense.)
[/end blither]
Rascal#217 -- I was confused too, thus refrained from commenting on your post. Thanks for clarifying with this:
“TOfan — It’s simple, really: Judge the behavior, not the person. What I criticized was the language, the names, the nannying — not the people who produced it.”
This is exactly what sent me running & hiding after recent (somewhat combative) responses that seemed to be personal attacks on a few popular posters. Though not my responsibility and probably should have butted out, I didn’t and expressed my frustration directly to these comments. Sorry, will try to be more rational in the future.
SF -- Thanx for translation on Como la Flor. Was dying watching the Voice sing it but didn’t have a clue why?
Actually have been interested in learning the spanish lanquage for the past 4 years (yeah, way before I heard this song). So please feel free to include any phrases for those of us that are so challenged.
JR -- Tagalog (sp?), too!
LOVE this site and all the fun stuff!
TULSA -- TOUCH MY HAND
OMG! David is the best. At .42 he bends down sooooo far to touch someone’s hand it’s ridiculous! He is so sincere there are no words to describe it.
Sorry about that -- where’s the video?? Hello? I hope this goes through now.
rel="nofollow ugc">
Rascal #217 “Judge the behavior, not the person” -- isn’t it human nature to judge people by their behavior? This is a tough one for me to sort out in my mind.
Dawn #220 I so totally agree with
“Everything is about perception. And furthermore ~ conveying true intent through written word ~ is tricky business. We can use caps, and punctuation to try to get what we are “saying” across the http://www… but this can prove to be quite challenging for someone that relies heavily on tone and inflection. ”
I think about this most times before I post a comment. Everyone’s perception can be so different, and it is hard for people not to put their own inflection onto someone else’s comments.
awestruck #238 — It may seem like a subtle variation, but the difference between “what you said is idiotic” and “you are an idiot” is actually quite significant.
isn’t it human nature to judge people by their behavior?
That’s how we all start out..
judge the sin not the sinner.
It’s all about our own personal observations of things.
For example .. in MY strict catholic household ~ HATE was not tolerated ~ not the emotion ~ the actual word. That word carried a stigma that would get you a good smack in the teeth I tell you. That is EMBEDDED in me, even as carefree and lovingly fun as ronalds poem was … I had an IMMEDIATE distaste for it, and had to wait to process or even READ it.. all because of that little word. As an ADULT .. I can now see the word, and realize it shouldn’t always be taken literally, but those lifelong lessons are ALWAYS .. kneejerk reaction.
It’s about reprogramming your individual thought process.
Dawn -- I’ve decided you speak for all the fangirls at this site. Also love your humor injected phrases -- “disney infected”!! Regardless of the seriousness of a discussion, you’ll insert a comment like that and hahaha! Make me bust out laughing at 2 in the morning. Thanx for that! Also agree with you and awestruck on this:
“Everything is about perception. And furthermore ~ conveying true intent through written word ~ is tricky business. We can use caps, and punctuation to try to get what we are “saying” across the http://www… but this can prove to be quite challenging for someone that relies heavily on tone and inflection.”
You express it so well -- “someone that relies heavily on tone and inflection.” Even passed this on to my 4yo grandaughter.
That was the memorial service of all times…never mind anything circus like, or too much media making too much of it all. Larry King sat behind the family and was as overwhelmed as anyone else and for a tough old guy that was something.
The memorial service was history in the making and it was a stab at everyone’s heart unless you are made of stone.
I was not familiar with all that Michael was involved in throughout his life, or the compassion he carried for the less fortunate.
Of course I thought about David when they talked about Michael having two personalities one being off stage and the other on stage. The off stage personality was child like at times and on stage it was a remarkable presence.
I thought about David when I saw how wonderful it would have been for him to come on stage and sing to the world, shocking millions who have never seen or heard him.
So much of Michael’s generous heart and wonderful smile we see in David. Now more then ever before, all the caring people around him must see that life does not become impossible as it did for Michael.
I have a feeling that David will be uplifted after today’s memorial service as he strives even more diligently towards a greater singing career.
SB
fanda .. you give me warm fuzzies 8)
Tone and inflection ~ I remember growing up and singing insults to my brothers ~ surely convinced that if I masked my words with a smiling happy face ~ in a singsong voice ~ my parents surely couldn’t detect we were on the verge of killing each other.
Later in life, without any prompting ~ my own kids would take up the same habit ~ as I heard them time and time again ~ slinging nasty insults to the tune of twinkle twinkle little star or something.
Ahhh .. the early beginnings .. good times.. hahaha
I was compelled to watch the memorial and was so glad I did. So much of the last 40 years of my musical life was present there. The heartstrings were singing. Touching to see Smokey, Stevie, Lionel and now my homeboy fave John Mayer. The scenes in London and NYC reminded me, as much of this did, of Princess Diana’s funeral and how I just couldn’t look away. As it ended, David’s tweet came onto my phone and I echoed his thoughts about blessings on MJ’s family. A memorable day.
Rascal #239 that’s, UMM… well, pretty obvious.
Dawn #240 I know all about the Catholic upbringing. And, isn’t it interesting that the word HATE is not part of my vocabulary either.
“It’s about reprogramming your individual thought process.” Yup!
“judge the sin not the sinner. ” I have always told my son as he was growing up (actually I still do): I will always love you, but I do not like the way you just did XXXXXX.”
awestruck ~ interesting ~ good to know actually. There are many interesting things growing up Catholic ~ but we won’t go into all that.
Hate ~ was like a deadly sin in our house ~ I mean seriously ~ it ranked right up there with thou shall not kill. And it didn’t matter how inanimate the object ~ we could use “dislike” .. not fond of .. don’t care for.. but never ever hate.
Perhaps this is why I have such a broad vocabulary ~ spending my life trying to find a different way to say what’s really on my mind… hahaha.
But we weren’t allowed to say fart either.. so there ya go.. my kids still get a hoot out of fluff.. bwahahahahaha
dawn65 . July 7, 2009 at 6:39 pm .
Dawn- “I abhor flatulence!”
/grin
Abrra
Abrra !!!!
It’s trez fun becoming a walking thesaurus ~ rock on wordplay queen 8)
Our boy is not feeling well today 😥
His latest tweet…
Ugh I feel terrible. No fun being sick. Thankfully we have 2 days off, so hopefully I’ll be ok by the next show lol. 4 mins ago
Yeah, I saw that too, SF. Sending him some positive vibes!
Could be that Mexican food he ate, or just the heat in Texas.
The forecast for Glendale on Thursday is calling for high temps of 108 and lows in the high 80’s.
Drink plenty of liquids David! Oh yeah..you drink lots of water already! And get plenty of rest! SLEEP, SLEEP, SLEEP! PLEASE!
Poor baby! OOPS! I meant POOR GUY!!
I taped the MJ Memorial and have been watching it. I have to say when Barry Gordy was describing Michael and how he viewed Michael as a young prodigy, he could have been speaking of David! It just gave me chills. I kept thinking OMG, that’s how we feel and think about David!
I’m going to finish watching now.
See you in a bit.
hoping that David has a 24 hour bug and not somthing that hangs on. sendng good vibes his way, wherever he is.
OK..can’t concentrate..this is nuts! David is sick. I need to post this now..
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
Amen!
Amen !!!
I felt the world tilt to the left when he sent out that tweet. Why on earth does this send us into panic mode ?
SF -- you forgot to include the part of the prayer that says he should tweet if he’s ever in trouble, so he’s simply following your request. Hope he recovers quickly.
Dawn we used to say pooots -- aka -- fart LOL
Joymus..that’s the part I add to wish him a good night..I was in such a hurry to post it the prayer, I forgot that part!
I’m thinking maybe David started feeling ill after watching MJ’s memorial. Maybe the finality of it just hit him. I know for myself, just watching the tape of the memorial made me understand even more what a huge loss MJ’s passing was for the world of music. But what made my stomach do flip flops were the words they all used to describe Michael..too much like how we feel about David.
Anyway, here’s the rest, even though it’s only 8:00 in TX if that’s where he still is…
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!
Amen, Amen.
awestruck #238 -- (Hi!) I will just add that this is also stated in the Terms & Conditions of our site. There are a number of standard blogging rules that are listed. Here are the first few:
The David Chronicles is a site that values the free expression of thought and ideas within a community of respect, both for David and for each other.
1. Debate should be lively but also constructive and respectful.
2. Critique the idea, but not the person (i.e., no personal attacks).
3. David’s private life is off-limits, unless it is a topic that he has discussed publicly.
4. Don’t incite hatred on the basis of race, religion, gender,
nationality, age or sexuality or other personal characteristic.
etc.
Way late in saying this, but I really flove the top pic, Rascal. David, in between one of his big grins and his smoky stare. Fantastico!
DavidfanLIZ, so we have terms and conditions? You guys are way ahead of my little blog lol. I just discovered earlier that I had to approve comments in order for them to show. Now I have it set so that I don’t have to do that. But thanks everyone for your comments so far!
Oh! And the address is http://ronaldsf.wordpress.com
/shameless self-promotion
Well, I’ve got nothing on the folks over at IDF, where some ambitious posters are in the process of establishing a small nation. It’s called “Archie Country,” and they’re taking nominations and holding elections! I’m not running for anything, but they have adopted my Pledge of Allegiance! LOL
http://idolforums.com/index.php?showtopic=615993
I pledge allegiance to the land
of David Archuleta
And swear to follow him and his band,
And do my duty to fill the world with his music
And happiness and lettuce for all.
😛
==============
Watching bits of the memorial propelled me into another MJ splurge. I’ve spent hours today watching his career on YouTube, from childhood on up! I really need to be studying! But this is important. Reflection can be just as important as accomplishment.
I expect a revival of things Michael over this next year. Very cool to see MJ inspiring another generation. On YouTube, I’m finding comments from young people who have just recently realized how amazing MJ was. That’s one advantage of YouTube -- when something significant happens, we can review the past and appreciate its import so quickly.
I should be studying… Okay, I’m done.
Interesting post Rascal. I have read it several times over the past couple of days.
“For me, respecting David means taking him seriously as an artist. I dare say a far greater number of David’s fans are guilty of transgressing this particular tenet than any other.”
This for me, is what it’s all about. His sensuality is part of his art, a medium he works with to create what must be created. I don’t think it is so much calculated as cultivated, like an exotic, fragrant, flower that should be treated gently. Some people just need to relax, and take a deep breath.
Okay, poor ignorant me… what does bb stand for?
If it’s not right to post it here, then please post it as a comment in my blog:
RONALDSF.WORDPRESS.COM! 🙂
/shameless self-promotion
I keep promoting my new home, but I haven’t even decorated in there yet lol.
Oh, and if “bb” denotes someone is particularly youthful then I think I get it already. In the meantime, I did a quick internet search and found out it was a nickname for Benjamin Netanyahu. I don’t think that was it lol.
ronaldsf #264--you crack me up!!! I’ve put your blog in my favorites, but haven’t really had time to visit--I’ll get there tho’. You need to get studying and quit dilly dallying around, my friend (yes mother, he says).
ronald -- I didn’t know either. bb = baby boy. Now go back to studying haha!
hmmm… bb =baby boy.. lately I thought it stood for belly button..I guess it could stand for both in the comments over the past few days…I guess it is all how you look at it..no pun intended : wink:
sheesh 😉
pabuckie #182, I asked about that too the other night. No one responded. I guess you and I are the only ones who are curious?? Though SF #186, do you mean to say others elsewhere are wanting to know too? Couldn’t tell. Oh well, jewelry always gets my attention lol. And yes, the ring finger to boot.
It’s hello and good night again. See ya’ll tomorrow!
Bahahaha djxox #267 As Dawn65 said, “It’s all in the interpretation”, isn’t it? Even in how you interpret those two little letters “bb”. LOL
You people amaze me! I sit here in wonderment, reading your posts, in awe of your ability to express yourselves so fluently in the written word!
We are all here on TDC because we admire and respect the subject of our devotion. He has grown up in the last year in so many wonderful ways, enough to give people twice and three times his age a run for their money. Take a cue from David. He treats everyone with the same degree of respect, from silly Simon on AI, who didn’t always deserve it, to DJs who should be ashamed of themselves for asking ridiculous questions, to us, his adoring fans.
David’s performances bring out all kinds of emotions in us, from happiness, peace, joy, love, pride, power, fulfillment and passion. He makes us feel this way just by being who he is. While we can’t help the way we react to him, we are still responsible for our actions and the choices we make in expressing our feelings. Frankly, I love reading all the different ways people express their love here. The diversity alone is a tribute to David!
To quote my namesake (lol) beebee (#233 )
“He assaults me from all angles, bringing on ALL of his awesomeness at once, because he carries all of that with him wherever he goes. That’s “just David”…being himself. And, boyhowdy, he is moz def more than the sum of his parts.”
Yes, beebee you make perfect sense!
Regarding the “One’ campaign, we had 51 comments, last time I checked. Hope to have 100 by the time we present the letters to David on this tour. The faster we reach that goal the sooner we will (hopefully) attain our prize! So keep those letters coming! My husband even wrote one! LOL
Gotta get some sleep!
Brought over, for your convenience:
FINALLY it’s here…the opportunity for us to express our desire in writing to have David sing the full version of U2’s song, “One”. Now is our chance to write a little sumthin’ sumthin’ to David about why we want him to sing the full version of the song. The letters will be presented at an upcoming show on the summer tour. Hopefully we will be pleasantly rewarded for our efforts and hear David sing the full song this summer!
Please follow the link provided:
http://campaignforone.wordpress.com/
Bebereader and Abrra
PS A huge thank you to Marlie for all her help in getting this started!
PS Been busy working on my first post! Yes, me, can you believe it?!! Oh don’t get too excited; it’s just one of those short, random ones. Thanks for the inspiration, Marlie!
TV Alert, RERUN of Bonnie Hunt Today!
The Bonnie Hunt Show Kathy Griffin; David Archuleta performs; castoffs from “The Amazing Race 13.” noon KNBC
Abrra
Good morning everyone!
“I’m thinking maybe David started feeling ill after watching MJ’s memorial. Maybe the finality of it just hit him.”
Good point, SF. I know the finality hit me. I’m now definitely at Stage 4 -- Depression. I guess I’ll just ride it out.
Hope David is feeling better!
I don’t think David was feeling well on Monday before the show in Tulsa. We saw him at the meet n greet and he seemed a little off. Rushed around for sure. Tired. It just felt awkward. Being led here and there, lined up and rushed through the picture taking like an assembly line. I felt bad for him. No time to talk to him. An older lady (def grandmother) stood too close and wanted him to kiss her cheek. Grossed me out. He just leaned away from her and said “I don’t think I do that” He was clearly uncomfortable and on guard.
Oh and he did not sing Como la Flor. He sang great but the set felt rushed too. I don’t think he felt well at all.
HG/SF -- Although I cried during the memorial, on my way home today one of MJ’s old songs came on the radio. My stomach hurt as my eyes welled up, again, and just then it finally hit me — we will never see him sing new songs again, perform new numbers — create magic. His untimely departure leaves such a void.
I have been praying David’s prayer more often these days SF. Although not directly related, somehow I find solace in that. Thanks for sharing that with us.
New Post
debra, thanks for sharing that information. He probably was starting to feel under the weather before the Tulsa show. Poor David .. and the kiss on the cheek?
Are you freaking serious? I don’t care ~ grandmother or not ~ that’s an invasion of his personal space ~ and I’m grossed out by it too. EPIC fail on that woman ~ #1 For weirding David out and #2 For being so disrespectful of his personal space.
grrr .. it’s wackos like that.. that can ruin the whole experience for him, and he’ll be uncomfortable .. nice work you freak job.
People need to get a grip on themselves.. seriously. Know your boundaries .. he doesn’t KNOW you .. you aren’t his friend .. you aren’t his family .. you are his fan .. and he doesn’t roll like that .. and EVERY fan of DAVID knows that .. even trying to move in on him like that .. means you don’t get him.
Sorry if I’m offending anyone .. but I find that action on her part disrespectful on too many levels.
ok .. enough rant …
Ok, I know I’m a little late to this post and don’t even know if anyone is still thinking about the article at hand, but I’m giving it a shot.
Yes, I’m new here, not new to the sight, I’ve been lurking for a while, just new to commenting. I’ve been enjoying all the articles for a while and so wanted to give a comment, especially the poem by ronald, but always chickened out. I guess I’ve just been so amazed how well everyone is able to express themselves and put into writing exactly what I’ve been feeling and thinking all along but could not put into words or articulate so well, so I shyed away because of feeling inadequate, I guess. But after reading this article and everyone’s comments, I have to try to put my 2 cents in.
First of all, silverfox#18, bliss#19, and dawn#116 again, you took the words right out of my mouth and I don’t know if I can add anything more noteworthy or not. I love it when I have all these thoughts that I can’t express and someone comes along and says it so easily. It just makes me feel so good that I’m not alone in this crazy ODD. Because it’s completely new to me too. I’ve never been a fan of anything or anybody or been so drawn to any celebrity of any kind. It’s actually scarry.
Anyway, I know it’s a little redundant now, but great article, Rascal. And, I must say, even greater pictures. And that’s what’s so funny and ironic about it, because the pictures kinda make the article obselete, if you know what I mean. They, along with the other thousands of pictures of him out there, truly do speak for themselves and speak louder than words ever could. I know you didn’t put those pictures in there by accident anymore than ronald put that certain picture in there at the end of the poem. Very clever indeed.
So, for me, to say that commenting on his looks, his sensuality, or raw sex appeal is demeaning or disrespectful, then you would have to say that all these pictures of him are demeaning also. Are we going to refuse to look at pictures of him anymore? I don’t think so. Are we going to refuse to watch his performances on stage anymore or go to his concerts if he continues to wow us with his flirtacious looks and sensual moves? I don’t think so! He has said that, in the past, he used to hate taking pictures and would hide from the camera, but now he’s used to it. Well, no one had to tell us that, because he has obviously gotten very comfortable in front of that camera and the camera shamelessly loves him (and more and more, so does the stage), almost as much as we do.
His beauty inside and out and his physical appeal cannot be denied anymore than his talent and artistry can to any human that has eyes and ears. And I dont think you can or need to try to separate the two. They are all part of the “total package” that set him light years apart from the rest of the crowd. And I think it’s much more demeaning and damaging to his credibility to refer to his squeaky-clean image, wholesomeness, farm-boy goodness, tween-girl fantasy, belonging on Disney, and all the other too-good-to-be-true attributes that critics throw at him. And I agree with the extremes: He doesn’t need babied or coddled, and definitely crude, lude, vulgar, raunchy, or dirty remarks like you see on so many websites would be disgusting and disrespectful, and I’ve never seen anything close to that here.
But to refer to his hotness level or his undeniable, how should I say, “magnetic charms”, ok, he’s one hot tamale!, IMO, I don’t think that is distastful, it’s a compliment. That may not be what David considers himself as or is completely comfortable with others saying that about him, which only adds to his charms by the way, but he’s going to have to get used to it like he’s had to get used to everything else in this business, because it ain’t going away anytime soon, in fact it will only get worse, or should I say better? One article I read somewhere said that sensuality oozed out of David like a squeezed bottle of toothpaste, and that’s without him even trying to be. Heaven help us all if and when he actually does try!
Aside from his voice, we all fell in love with his boyish charms and down-to-earthness (is that a word?), his innocence, sincerety and honesty, etc.,…. AND his good looks. Does that make us vain or shallow? I don’t think so or we wouldn’t be here. But to try to deny it or prudishly pretend we don’t see it or admire it would be, as someone said, “ludicrous” and also not human and even a bit self righteous. I agree with the remark someone made about maybe some of us “older” fans not being comfortable with the fact that we’re goggling over an 18 year old, maybe it makes us feel a little guilty, and we should be protecting him instead. But it’s neither our job nor our responsibility as fans to protect him and he doesn’t need it. He is not a boy anymore, in case anyone didn’t notice; and is only beginning to show us the real man that has been dying to come out all along.
Everyone says it’s all about the voice, the talent, the artistry, and that’s not even in question here; because I would love and watch David if he came out on stage in a monk’s robe (yeah, if he didn’t even wear those jeans) or sang out of a box, it wouldn’t matter. Yes, the voice & personality will keep us here forever, but the eye candy sure doesn’t hurt. Actually, maybe it does, it sure makes the ODD worse.
Anyway, the point I’m trying to make is, I was thinking back to his very first audition, before we even heard him sing, we heard his interview with Ryan about his vocal cord paralysis, etc. We were, I know I was anyway, mesmerized immediately. What was it about this kid that just makes you sit up and take notice? His undeniable boyish charm, honesty, laid back, non-pretentious demeanor, his haircut, and yes, his absolute adorableness, cuteness, and dang good looks. We were baited right then and we hadn’t even heard him sing. And I remember thinking, “I wonder if this kid is for real, I wonder if he can actually sing?” Well, it didn’t take long to find out. After hearing WOTWTC, we were caught; hook, line, and sinker. Then after hearing “Heaven”, we were cleaned, skinned and deep fried. The rest is history. I’ll never forget Simon’s remark after that. He said, “You have everything going for you; you’re young, good looking, likeable,……AND you’ve got a great voice.” Yeah, he mentioned “good looking” 2nd and kinda threw in “great voice” as an added bonus. He might have it turned around, but we get the idea.
Then right from his very first performance on AI with “Shop Around”, with that subtle hip swivel, we got the first glimpse of what was lurking inside him waiting to come out. We got more glimpses throughout his performances on the show and on the AI tour and even more on his solo tour. We definately saw his raw passion, feeling, and emotion that came out when he sing and his ability and power he had to connect with the song and with the audience and make us feel the same emotions he was feeling. That’s his gift. He can make us feel whatever he wants. And he does it like no other.
We are just beginning to see the real David. He is still in the budding stage of his career, his abilities, his inner self and personal development, the persona that he portrays outwardly, everything. He has not even begun to blossom, let alone burst into the full-grown flower of excellence that he is capable of or has the potential for. It is hard to even imagine that he could possibly get better, but I am here to watch and enjoy every stage of growth and development that he goes through as an artist and a man.
Well, I’ve rambled on long enough. I do apologize, but it is so easy to get carried away when it comes to David. All of you are probably wishing I never came out of hiding.
katsue ~ thanks for coming out of lurkdom. I wish more would bravely jump in ~ and not think so much about how their writing skills play out.
I LOVED your post. And I’m sure everyone else will as well. I got excited reading it, because I just love when we try to dig down in our bag of adjectives to try to come up with something that fits.. and nothing ever really DOES.. but they all apply. That’s what I LOVE about this site. We can gush.. we can critique.. we can share the highs… the lows.. and it’s just .. LOVE.
In a letter I gave to David recently, I remember telling him he didn’t create a fanbase, he created a community. Every resident is special .. because David attracts good people.. and I adore that about him. (well except freaky grandma that tried to make him kiss her .. lol).
Please .. join in any time !!!!!
I especially liked your use of blossom .. it sent my heart rate into a pitter patter .. watching him BLOOM .. is insanely exciting.
dawn65 . July 8, 2009 at 11:38 am .
*chases* after Dawn with a freshly starched STRAIGHT JACKET!!!
Abrra Rachet
What the heck are ya chasing me for ? I have been good !!! I got my warning .. remember? I’m on my best behavior. It’s crazy grandma that needs a straight jacket.
Can’t get over that woman ~ David is TOO nice .. he should have BLOCKED her .. hahahahahaha
dawn -- Thank you so much for your warm welcome and kind words. I needed that. Beginning to feel a little unsure of myself.
BAH on you katsue ~ I will not let you slither away unseen .. get your booty back in here ~ engage ~ it’s addicting. You’ve read here long enough that you know we don’t bite ~ we only nibble ~ and kiss and make up. It’s never about what you write.
I’ve recently posted .. Oh .. and that in and of itself..was enough .. LOL.
katsue6583: Bravo! For stepping out of lurkdom and for posting such a wonderful comment. It’s interesting how David makes us have to analyze all our feelings LOL.
“It just makes me feel so good that I’m not alone in this crazy ODD. Because it’s completely new to me too. I’ve never been a fan of anything or anybody or been so drawn to any celebrity of any kind. It’s actually scarry.”
I think you spoke for so many of us. And for so many of us its just a relief to know we aren’t the only ones out there.
Welcome aboard!
marlie: thank you too, and dawn, you crack me up but the addiction is what I’m afraid of. It’s already taking over my life as it is. I try to get away from all of this but the withdrawl symptoms are too great. Help somebody!
katsue ~ sorry ~ there is no cure for the ODD ~ the harder you fight it ~ the worse it gets ~ embrace it ~ love it ~ be proud of it ~ and we will teach you what we know ~ all the tricks of the trade ~ we are high functioning now ~ we can go to work on time after staying up til 3 AM waiting for videos from the latest venues.
We’ve shared household shortcuts and all kinds of things ~ we won’t lead you wrong grasshopper ~ step into the light ~ it’s fun ~ and we have brownies 8)
katsue6583!!! Where have you been hiding? Why you are unsure of your writing skills is totally beyond me! Your comments were great. Loved them! Every single word, so please do not stay a “lurker”. I’m glad I just happened to come back here to see what Dawn was up to here since there’s a new post up. 😆
Looking forward to more of your insights…we are all here for two reasons, one is for the camaraderie we have at TDC and more importantly because of our love & admiration of David.
silverfox: Thank You! You all are so great. That’s why I just couldn’t help myself any longer, I had to join in. But it is so true as dawn mentioned in #279, that you try so hard to express how you feel about David and come up with words to describe him and you think you’ve achieved it, but then when all is said and done, it still doesn’t even scratch the surface, it’s just not enough. David is truly indescribable and unexplainable. It’s really quite exhausting but definintely addicting and yes, in the meantime, we will continue to spend our time trying.
katsue6583, #285 “help somebody”? BWAHAHAHAHAHA! Absolutely no need for help. Just join in here..sometimes you have to put waders on..sometimes you only dip your toes in!
Great minds! Fun times! Welcome!
Hey angelofdja: Thanks, yes that was laughable wasn’t it?