David Archuleta — “Imagine” — American Idol 7 Top 20 — Video MP3

Tuesday, February 26, 2008, 09:25 PM | American Idol 7, David Archuleta

David Archuleta American Idol Top 20

David Archuleta performs “Imagine” on American Idol Top 20

They show David Archuleta’s YouTube clip of “And I Am Telling You” in front of Kelly Clarkson.

Paula Abdul is crying!

I think we have winner. Go David Archuleta! Go go go!

Listen to the audio of David Archuleta:

Pre-Order David Archuleta Top 20 on iTunes

Direct link to MP3:

David Archuleta
(Please Right-Click and Save Target As… Thanks!)

David Archuleta fan thread (the Arch Angels!) on Rickey Forums

138 Comments for David Archuleta — “Imagine” — American Idol 7 Top 20 — Video MP3

1

phenomenal!

laureldj on February 26, 2008 at 9:31 pm
2

WOW!

sandman06 on February 26, 2008 at 9:34 pm
3

Wow-impressive. David reminds me a lot of Elliot, in that he can pack a lot of emotion in a song, or even a phrase of a song.

lotus on February 26, 2008 at 9:35 pm
4

definetly the best of the night…again!
haha yay best way to end the show!
He is so consistently good!

ArchAngels on February 26, 2008 at 9:38 pm
5

I’m fairly certain that if he doesn’t win it will be a crime. Paula wasn’t the only one with tears. It definitely brought a couple to my eyes as well. His voice is so pure and you can feel the emotion when he sings. He is amazing.

apajax6 on February 26, 2008 at 9:38 pm
6

okay, i think the boy can sing BUT…

i don’t think he has RELEVANCE in today’s music

AND

COULD THEY PIMP HIM OUT ANYMORE? I MEAN GEEEZ! HEY AI…the screaming teens in the audience was a nice touch

apparently he has been on AI’s radar since his song in front of Season 1.

SO, just go ahead and crown him the winner, as they ALREADY have.

cdb1025 on February 26, 2008 at 9:41 pm
7

Wow. They needed to pimp someone. The show was boring up until the last two. David brought down the house!!!

yahdaw on February 26, 2008 at 9:43 pm
8

In addition to everything else, David is a great musician–and I don’t mean that he plays the piano, but that his musical choices are impeccable. That’s a huge part of what makes him so amazing.

The kid is a bona-fide phenomenon.

rascal on February 26, 2008 at 9:45 pm
9

He is absolutely unbelievable. Just awesome.

allamericangrl on February 26, 2008 at 9:47 pm
10

He’s giving all the guys a run for their money!!! He’s extreeeeemely talented!!! You, Ramiele, and Amanda- still my Top 3!!! =D

kyo2590 on February 26, 2008 at 9:49 pm
11

I’m always waiting for one of those moments like Clay singing To Love Somebody or Kelly doing Stuff Like That There where they really show the styling and inate feel for the song. Tonight David did that. Remarkable, beautiful.

Spriggzoid on February 26, 2008 at 9:51 pm
12

Tween girls screaming during “Imagine”. Yeah, that’s how it’s supposed to be done.

*insert eye roll*

Miss Tara on February 26, 2008 at 9:52 pm
13

Amazing..period.

xbrowneyesbluex on February 26, 2008 at 9:55 pm
14

It was good no question about it. But he is not the second coming of Pavarotti and that rendition of “Imagine” was too melismatic for me. “Imagine” is fine as is and does not require any enhancement. And the way the judges are drooling over him is going to turn off many people.

oOo on February 26, 2008 at 10:00 pm
15

-oOo-

YOU ARE EXACTLY RIGHT!!!!!!!!

RIGHT ON!

cdb1025 on February 26, 2008 at 10:03 pm
16

He really doesn’t need any pimping.

laureldj on February 26, 2008 at 10:06 pm
17

it was good. but it was all over the place.

high..low..high..low. it would’ve been better if he kept it consistent and maybe give it a build up to the end. imagine is one of those songs that shouldn’t be oversung. like when he sang heaven during hollywood…THAT was great.

loner_xtreme on February 26, 2008 at 10:07 pm
18

-loner_extreme-

you are right.

i’m not saying David can’t sing, BUT what I’m saying is…he isn’t the GREATEST singer, or the next pavorotti, or w/e floats your boat.

I think him being young, taking the “MELINDA” path, and the pimp’age’…will eventually, do him in.

i’m not denying his talent, just the way AI is doing.

cdb1025 on February 26, 2008 at 10:10 pm
19

Davids performance was just amazing. David sings with such emotions straight from the heart. He is sweet, shy, and very genuine. David is blessed with this amazing talent and such a beautiful voice.

Donna on February 26, 2008 at 10:10 pm
20

David and Chikeze were absolutely brilliant tonight.

David’s performance brought me to tears. That was the Eva Cassidy version of Imagine and, though no one can touch Eva vocally, David sure came close in both his vocals and his performance.

I’m willing to bet this guy is going to make impeccable choices and deliver phenomenal performances every week. He’s just got something in his blood that’s reserved for the greats. It’s a beautiful thing to see.

hildegarde on February 26, 2008 at 10:18 pm
21

He’s better than Elliott; sorry. If his vocal chords don’t go out on him….and he’s a chick magnet.

Chicago-48 on February 26, 2008 at 10:24 pm
22

Actually I have hated each and every cover I’ve ever heard of Imagine — EXCEPT this one! He actually did something unique with it, without killing the song. I could actually listen to that on the radio.

jonidepp on February 26, 2008 at 10:27 pm
23

WOW! I knew he was amazing, but THIS PERFORMANCE RIGHT HERE definitely makes the TOP 5 OF ALL TIME IDOL PERFORMANCES, EASY.

DJJayito on February 26, 2008 at 10:27 pm
24

very cool!

nona on February 26, 2008 at 10:28 pm
25

If the producers of American Idol want people to continue to take this show seriously – and therefore expand its lifespan – this boy MUST win.

He is NEARLY flawless.

bryan3089 on February 26, 2008 at 10:32 pm
26

he was definitely the best of the night, but i coulda done without the pimping.

sprout on February 26, 2008 at 10:32 pm
27

David doesn’t need any defending, but to a few of the criticisms here –

I’ve never been a huge fan of melismatic styling, especially when it’s superfluous, but I think David gets it exactly right. His instincts are to my ear unassailable. Would I love it even more with a bit less? Possibly, but I think we’re talking about shading at a very minute level here. These are live performances with no producers–for a kid to get so close to perfection in these circumstances is really unbelievable.

As regards the lack of an “arc” to the performance, I agree that he built it fast, but it never sagged for a moment after that, plus they just don’t have enough time (no complete songs) to really create a proper arc and–let’s face it–this IS a competition. You’d better damn well show off what you’ve got while you have the chance.

rascal on February 26, 2008 at 10:34 pm
28

Okay and to address this whole “pimping” thing –

The judges, the fans, the video clips, whatever… are all WARRANTED praise. The judges aren’t obsessively applauding him for no reason – THAT would be pimping.

When someone deserves an onslaught of praise, they should get it. Stop with this “ugh, I’m sick of the PIMPING” nonsense. He’s incredible; he therefore deserves all the praise he’s getting! No one else comes CLOSE to him in terms of talent (especially vocal) – so there is no argument!

And if he screws up one week or just drops the bar a bit, the judges WILL tell him so – or at least Simon will.

bryan3089 on February 26, 2008 at 10:35 pm
29

I wasn’t sold on this kid until tonight, very good.

Somebody up there said he was “all over the place” …uh, that person obviously doesn’t know too much about singing. Listen again.

smashing on February 26, 2008 at 10:39 pm
30

I didn’t think you could make a John Lennon song better. I am usually pretty critical of this show but damn, that was unbelievable. I know the age think gets pumped up a lot, but at 17 years old you would expect him to come out and just try to copy the original as best he could. Instead, he came out and took a great song and added to it just a little bit, here and there, to help make it less karaoke and more his own. To say that it was all over the place is ridiculous. If you want to see “all over the place,” check out about 6 of the previous nine singers. David A., David H., David C., Michael, and Chikezie are clearly the top 5 guys. The rest have absolutely no shot.

jackson on February 26, 2008 at 10:40 pm
31

I agree bryan, the pimping is deserved in this case.

smashing on February 26, 2008 at 10:42 pm
32

DAMN! That boy can SING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

He’s humble, very sweet and wise beyond his years.

He SHOULD be in the top 2!

krazijen on February 26, 2008 at 10:46 pm
33

smashing

what are you 12? i’m entitled to my own opinion and i personally felt it was all over the place with his arrangement. i would’ve liked a smoother build up instead of a rollercoaster-ish vocal.

i listened to it at least five times and i still hear the same thing. like it said…it was good…but not the best renditions. but clearly the best of the night.

loner_xtreme on February 26, 2008 at 10:49 pm
34

Wow, amazing, best of the night. His voice is so damn pleasant to listen to!!!

sweetangel1051 on February 26, 2008 at 10:50 pm
35

i agree he oversang a bit in the beginning but nonetheless… amazing.

mmmdonuts on February 26, 2008 at 11:05 pm
36

his RENDITION was okay. he has a good voice, but like loner_xtreme is saying, the arrangement wasn’t very pleasant.

THE ONLY VERSION I’VE HEARD THAT IS AWESOME IS JORDIS UNGA’S VERSION FROM ROCKSTAR INXS.

I’m just saying, if they are gonna call out the rest of the contestants for small faults here and there, they need to do it CONSISTANTLY. otherwise, “PIMP”age ensues!

anywho, i listened to it again, and I DO NOT, DO NOT, DO NOT like the high-low-high-low. it is kinda all over the place, but then again most people are just stuck at his timidness and smile. BEYOND THAT we run into shouting with tone.

cdb1025 on February 26, 2008 at 11:09 pm
37

The real John Lennon fans couldn’t have liked that. They’re probably as livid as I am. Imagine is such a deep song and it was never meant to be a mere instrument of showing one’s vocal range and melisma stylings. Those stunts just cheapen what the song is about.

Shame on you David Archuleta for ruining a sacred song.

atheista on February 26, 2008 at 11:25 pm
38

The kid has got it – plain and simple. Tonight’s performance was phenominal.

MindyLCK on February 26, 2008 at 11:26 pm
39

i think the melismatic singing is purely a matter of preference.

mmmdonuts on February 26, 2008 at 11:32 pm
40

I thought he did pretty good. I’m still not a fan, but he definitely has alot of charm and a good voice. He knows how to pick good songs as well.
Helps that he’s getting UBER pimpage!

Pallaton on February 26, 2008 at 11:38 pm
41

Unbelievable…undeniable…and a level of talent IMHO likely unattainable by any other contestant this season. I don’t know why they don’t just sent the girls packing and forget tomorrow’s show after that! Check him out singing Imagine on youtube like 3or4 years ago on “good morning utah” or somthing like that…he was great then and now his voice has matured and it’s even better!

djspeede1 on February 26, 2008 at 11:47 pm
42

So someone tell me.
Why is the incredible David Archuleta, who has been on the radar for years with the producers of AI, is as cute as any teen idol and as talented as all get out, not already a star?

Seriously.

Interested Observer on February 26, 2008 at 11:52 pm
43

David A. is simply one of the best singers in AI history. He sings with such connectedness, purity and emotion, it’s undeniable.

And guess what? We’ve seen nothing yet from him. He will blow us off again and again. The best is yet to come. He is a bottomless wells of talent.

Mark my word!

heavyblow on February 26, 2008 at 11:53 pm
44

I’m one of these people who believe “Imagine” can be sung straight and be great and doesn’t need much melisma or much variations. I loathed the Jennifer Hudson version and actually liked Blake’s version last year when he sang it straight.

But David’s phrasing and change of melody was very very good. He didn’t oversing it. It was a risk, but it worked.

But if you didn’t connect with David’s purity, then, really, he is not for you.

heavyblow on February 26, 2008 at 11:57 pm
45

Incredible. David Archuleta is amazing.

s0x_prisoner on February 26, 2008 at 11:58 pm
46

I’ve paid close attention to the accelerated maturation of unlikely standouts from previous seasons. The recurring theme is this: those that continue on into later weeks of the competition are propelled into greatness simply by being forced to get better to survive. David has set a very high standard up front, and his fans will expect nothing less in the future. He will HAVE to deliver EVERY time from now on, lest his fans lose faith. Other contestants who show greater improvement could be a threat. Congrats on a great intro, David, but your job could be the hardest.

smalltownguy on February 27, 2008 at 12:05 am
47

After David’s performance, how much do you want to bet Clay Aiken’s dressing room at the Shubert Theatre is trashed!!!

Jonathan67 on February 27, 2008 at 12:07 am
48

okay so. David is DEFINATLEY my top 3. (along with david hernandez and danny) so im not trying to bag on him, but blakes (to me) was way better, but thats becuase hes my aLL TIME favorite idol<3 but david still did a greaaaaat job!

TeamBlakee on February 27, 2008 at 12:09 am
49

He’s probably my fave overall for now, but I wasn’t impressed by his performance tonight. I don’t know. It could be that I’ve seen him sing Imagine in a video on youtube and so this wasn’t special or anything. Or maybe I just find that because the song is what it is (simple but beautiful and inherently tear-inducing), pretty much anyone singing it in tune with an ounce of sincerity would be creating a beautiful sound.

NYdvm on February 27, 2008 at 12:14 am
50

Wow, nice to see that the blog comments are alive again.

Go Team Archuleta! For the win!

Rickey on February 27, 2008 at 12:18 am
51

Rickey, you should put up a “conclusion blog” where we can opine/discuss/dis about the whole show. (If you haven’t already.)

Interested Observer on February 27, 2008 at 12:25 am
52

Rickey you rock!!!!

loner_xtreme on February 27, 2008 at 12:33 am
53

Amazing vocal, amazing personality, adorable person. He’s got it all, and if he doesn’t win (he MAYBE be the shocker of this season), he’ll have a career.

oboeadam on February 27, 2008 at 12:34 am
54

Rickey, thanks for getting the mp3s and videos up so quickly!!!
I liked the shout out to Jordis above! Searching for info on her is what actually first brought me to rickey.com Haven’t really kept up with what she’s been doing…

#3 – I’m not really feeling any similarity to Elliott .
#12 – LOL!!
#14 – agree with pretty much everything you said (but i don’t think a dash of controlled melisma hurts in any song)
Chicago-48 –oh no you didn’t just say he was better than Elliott!!
#27 – I agree!

NYdvm on February 27, 2008 at 12:40 am
55

To be quite honest, I don’t get all the David A. lovin’ going on!! Yeah he’s good but if he was really that good then why didn’t he get a recording contract after he was on Star Search?? JMHO but he’s too innocent choir boy looking for me and he just seems like the kind of person who would be better suited singing standards rather than the cool hip music of today.

tammyinohio on February 27, 2008 at 12:43 am
56

wow that’s a great performance. actually, that’s the only one i liked tonight. wish i could have been there and screamed too.

vegasbabe on February 27, 2008 at 12:48 am
57

TAMMYINOHIO!

OMG YOU JUST SUMMED UP EVERYTHING I WANT TO SAY!!!!

GO TAMMY!

cdb1025 on February 27, 2008 at 12:51 am
58

v v disney.

amber on February 27, 2008 at 12:55 am
59

I had to look up melismatic! Come to Rickey’s place, and learn something new everyday.

lotus on February 27, 2008 at 1:02 am
60

It was a good performance, but the reactions were just way off the chart. I was not wowed or blown away by it. He still has trouble breathing all over the song.

The pimpage is in full force for this guy and if he passed gas into the microphone they would probably cry and call it perfect.

Not to say he lacks talent or that it was not good, but it simply wasn’t that good. If it was another contestant they would not have offered that praise.

Clownhand on February 27, 2008 at 1:09 am
61

Well he definetly has the vocals down. Plus, he’s likable, that’s why there’s so much loving going on Tammy. Don’t hate, he’s absolutely amazing.
I agree that they shouldn’t pimp him out so much though, I don’t want anything to come crashing down.
He’s definetly my favorite though and his
humbleness, his impeccable selection of his songs and his effortless performances make him perfect for Idol.

ArchAngels on February 27, 2008 at 1:20 am
62

This is going to come across as super-duper snobby…just warning you. Anyone who REALLY knows about vocal technique knows that this kid is INCREDIBLY talented. He is so controlled and connected, has perfect vibrato and a wonderful sense of pitch… is every single note exactly on pitch? No, but pretty damn close! Especially compared to the other contestants this season. My only criticism is that he comes across as a wee bit trained. I think he needs to let himself go just a tad and not worry about every note being perfectly placed. Since he has such a great sense of pitch, it shouldn’t hurt him.

As far as why he didn’t get a recording contract after Star Search… well, I think the simple answer is because he was only 12 or something, right? I’m glad he didn’t get one because when he gets one after AI, he’ll be mature enough… both vocally and mentally. I think he’ll be very successful. DAMN, he’s good!! Ok, I’m done gushing now.

PhilPhan on February 27, 2008 at 1:51 am
63

Obviously, David can sing. He sang the song “movingly”.
He’s cute and comes off as likeable, charismatic, etc…
I gather he’s (probably) going to win in the end, seems like a likely, almost “cookie cutter” candidate.
I don’t think he’s as pure and humble as some think.
He’s worked hard to get to this place – and as with the politicians, unfortunately, one loses a certain amount of “purity” in the process.
I was turned off, ultimately, by the way the judges ga gagged over him, I thought it was unfair and unprofessional.
It was embarrassing to watch David “aw shucking” it and then turn to applaud the other contestants as if he’d already won.
I liked him a lot, initially, but that bugged me.
Besides, and I realize that this may not reasonate with others, but the song would have had a tad more impact (possibly), if the singer had a few more years in this messy world, under his belt.
JMO,
panama

panama on February 27, 2008 at 2:03 am
64

To all the idiots that say he’s pitchy…Your nobodys…Randy Jackson who has made hundreds of stars says he the best yet. You should all shut up and listen. Your a bunch of either young idiots or old wannabes…He’s the best theres ever been on idol and for the first time made me vote. I’d buy his cd tomorrow. You can say all you want about thinking you know anything at all but the world has found there idol and all you other idiots who think you know anything about music go find somewhere else to complain that you didn’t make it…I’d bet a million dollars tomorrow DAVID ARCHULETA IS THE NEXT AND GREATEST AMERICAN IDOL!!!!

sanjayasucks on February 27, 2008 at 2:06 am
65

also to cdb1025 and all the others that say they pimp him out…Do you think they say hey all you girls scream when they announce his name…what a bunch of idiots all of the haters are…You want to say they pimp him or that he isn’t that good…the kid was twelve when he won star search to the other hater that says why doesn’t he have a record deal…i don’t know about you but i don’t know a lot or any by that means that have record deals before there sixteen. you may think your special sitting on your computer complaining about your lives so you take it out on him…Get a grip he’s the best you’ve seen and I feel sorry for you that you feel so worthless you need to take it out on him…DAVID YOUR THE BEST I’VE EVER SEEN AND I’M BEING HONEST!!! GL MAN I HOPE YOU WIN IT ALL…DONT LISTEN TO ALL THE IDIOTS WHO HATE THERE LIVES….YOUR GONNA WIN!!!!

sanjayasucks on February 27, 2008 at 2:16 am
66

sanjayasucks No need to be offensive.

Interested Observer on February 27, 2008 at 2:16 am
67

Yeahh Sanjayasucks,
I think you need to work on a wee bit of Anger Management…..
It’s only a television show, not Judgement Day.
panama

panama on February 27, 2008 at 2:22 am
68

LOL this is a heated conversation!
but seriously, David has some mad vocals and you gotta give him props for those. Considering all the other male contestants don’t get as good comments from the judges and they’re called judges for a reason, I think we can all conclude that David IS the one to beat.

ArchAngels on February 27, 2008 at 2:25 am
69

God…..he was the best of the night, EASILY. I think he may win this whole thing.

shadow25 on February 27, 2008 at 2:49 am
70

David Archuleta is adorable!! Be sure to check out http://www.xanga.com/ewgs to read more opinions about American Idol!

ewgs on February 27, 2008 at 2:59 am
71

2nd best to David C.

Still not enough for me though he is completely adorable and has huge potential.

insanitic on February 27, 2008 at 3:58 am
72

CONSPIRACY THEORY:

Maybe American Idol had people with major record deals like Carly Smithson and Kristy Lee Cook on to take attention away from the fact that David has been very successful before as well. He’s won Star Search, and I’m sure there is a CD of him floating around somewhere. This theory fits in with your idea that somehow Carly was just a plant.

There is also buzz that he might be gay (I don’t think he is, but you never know). If he is indeed gay, maybe that explains the large amount of gay, or at least flamboyant, contestants this year (David H., Danny, Colton) who are acting as a decoy for David A? hahahaha, just all speculation on my part.

Anyway, I’m glad David is on the show. He’s my favorite. Wonderful performance tonight!!!

Also Rickey, maybe Carly didn’t change her name for the show. From her audition clip, it did mention that she owned her tatoo parlor with her husband. Maybe Smithson is his last name.

mikey on February 27, 2008 at 4:25 am
73

i’ll now agree that david HERNANDEZ is “gay!”,while watching him i remember all those gay that impersonates TINA TURNER in most of the comedy bars,his facial expression, his gestures are just too gayish..he just need some makeup and he will reallly looks like TINA Turner!!!

slytherinz on February 27, 2008 at 5:41 am
74

We know that we can expect a perfect performance from David every week. He has the most perfect, angelic voice that cannot be beat. I swear, I forgot I was watching American Idol, and I nearly cried.

lolnumbers1234 on February 27, 2008 at 6:53 am
75

never thought that it would happen. But his performance made me cry. It was so heart-felt and true and just.. it was just amazing

totallyme on February 27, 2008 at 7:05 am
76

I wonder how well the guys are getting along this season compared to S6. You got the feeling that S6 was a big love-fest, I’m not seeing the “closeness” with this group.

Chicago-48 on February 27, 2008 at 7:07 am
77

No doubt, he can sing and I think he has great control of his voice, but he’s not my pick. I’m not into the cutsey kind, reminds me of Diana DeGarmo! I just hope this isn’t another case of LaKisha, build them up and tear them down later. Remember it’s still early!

I would prefer Danny over him, but the more mature type is for me like Chikeze or David H. Still I prefer the girls 100% over the guys.

bfashion58 on February 27, 2008 at 8:12 am
78

he’s the best

shay on February 27, 2008 at 8:22 am
79

i’m into the personality of the contestants as anybody. but when i judge a contestant, i really only look at what they do within the 90 seconds alloted to them during the song they sing.

It begins with the step onto the stage and ends when they take a bow. Sure, the other stuff is entertaining, but irrelevant.

And what David does within those 90 seconds each time he’s on stage is just artistry.

And I don’t understand what ppl say that he has breath problem? To me, he has a husky tone to his voice, but he doesn’t have a breathing problem. That was more obvious w/ Jordin last year.

#62. Well said!

heavyblow on February 27, 2008 at 8:45 am
80

This boy can sing… and he sung that song great BUT I find him very BORING

drock on February 27, 2008 at 9:26 am
81

Yeh, but could he sing 99 Lufte Balloons? Seriously peeps, we are only half way through the top 20, and the girls haven’t even sung. Everyone gets a chance. If David really is the star, I am turning the show off now. Why bother watching, while the other 19, 18, etc, try out and the judges dump on them. That is not entertainment.

By the way, watch the parody of AI on MadTV on youtube where all three contestants have to sing 99 Lufte Balloons. Mad me laugh. A little laughter may help lighten up the competition and get back to the entertainment. There have been a number of successful “losers” coming from AI who have found their niche in the recording business.

lotus on February 27, 2008 at 9:47 am
82

C’mon guys, he is just 17 (is he? lol).

green_heart on February 27, 2008 at 10:48 am
83

Post #79: Heavyblow

Don’t take this the wrong way because I really like little David A (in my opinion he’s the best male vocalist this year).

But he DOES have a very bad breathing habit he needs to break and he’s done it each time he’s sang…and I’m surprised the vocal coaches haven’t gotten on him about it yet.

David’s bad habit is that he breathes thru his mouth INSTEAD of his nose between phrases which makes a very audible gasp of air that some find annoying. I’ve noticed it but it doesn’t annoy me that much because of the beautiful tones and inflections and distinct phrasing that comes out in the “other” direction. But he REALLY should work on breathing in thru his nose. If not, it will be only more obvious when he records slow songs in the future.

Go back and listen to his songs that Rickey has put up…and you’ll hear it at the end of just about every phrase where David takes a breath…you will hear an audible gasp of air as he refills his lungs.

Go David! You have my vote.

feaqs on February 27, 2008 at 10:50 am
84

He’s just adorable.

catielyn on February 27, 2008 at 11:40 am
85

Are you kidding Tammyinohio, cool hip music of today?

What is super hot right now? Hannah Montana, and The Jonas Brothers. (Who are both cute, young, and sing fairly well, with for the most part very likable personalities.)

…David Archuleta, is young, cute, can sing (much better than fairly well), and has, to a lot of people, an extremely likable personality. The little girls that I’ve met who watch the show are already going crazy for him. (The same ones that won’t leave the house when Hannah Montana is on the television.)

BeckyRide on February 27, 2008 at 11:48 am
86

Feaqs,

I relistened to the MP3. You’re right. His breathing in right before singing the next phrase is audible, and can be distracting.

A correctable issue though, right? And some professional will point this out to him in the future and David is not the type who will rest on his laurels.

But heart and interpretation are not something taht can be taught.

heavyblow on February 27, 2008 at 12:11 pm
87

David Archuleta is the only guy I voted for again last night!!! I’ve watched him ever since he was on Star Search!!!

CarrieUnderwoodFanForever on February 27, 2008 at 12:45 pm
88

Sanjayasucks, I’m surprised you can type with all the tears in your eyes. You are the one living a sad little life to get so upset because there are some not salavating over your boytoy.

DA has been set up to win this thing since he was 11 and meeting with Idol producers who tried to shop him. His performance was good, but not the best Idol has ever seen.

Clownhand on February 27, 2008 at 1:03 pm
89

I doubt the breathing will be changed much by a vocal coach because he has had excellent professional vocal coaches for many years. Noisy breathing while singing is *usually* caused by a constricted throat and shallow breathing, but correcting that is something any half competent coach would do very early in someone’s career.

Noisy breathing is also one of the symptoms of vocal cord paralysis which David suffered from at some point before AI. I hope that his voice stays healthy, because he is an awesome singer and performer.

laureldj on February 27, 2008 at 1:07 pm
90

Wow, I had no idea so many people were completely ga-ga over David A!

He seems like a sweet kid with a good voice, but I personally don’t understand his ability to cause mass hysteria.

I wonder if I should change my overall pick on Rickey’s office pool? Or will he be the shock elimination this year causing people to riot in the streets?

Only time will tell…

awau on February 27, 2008 at 1:15 pm
91

that’s right, Clownhand, the whole world is rigged, and not in your favor.

rascal on February 27, 2008 at 1:23 pm
92

Melismatic? What does coin collecting have to do with any of this?

Spriggzoid on February 27, 2008 at 1:28 pm
93

Young David has great instincts. I loved this interpretation of a classic. Teamblakee, i remember liking Blake’s version as well, because he pulled back from all his beatboxing shenanigans, but I don’t think he sang this song with as much feeling as David. This was beautiful.

GirlyGirl45 on February 27, 2008 at 1:28 pm
94

To Sanjaya Sucks, Sanjaya is not sucks, he is talented and unique, Go Sanjaya
We love you !!!

roma on February 27, 2008 at 1:33 pm
95

Post # 83 Feaqs

ITA about the breathing habit of David’s. To me it is slightly distracting but nowhere near as horrible as Jordin Sparks last year. I could never enjoy her performances because of the breathing noises last year.
David’s is slightly less pronounced, I think.
All in all a very moving performance.

chattycb on February 27, 2008 at 2:09 pm
96

He is Good but not as good as the judges etc are making out IMHO.

steve2009 on February 27, 2008 at 2:17 pm
97

Rascal, very funny!

I love it when ppl say that this show is rigged. It’s only rigged when it doesn’t follow that particular person’s taste.

Chatty: true re Jordin. David’s is less pronounced. Also, if one listens to Danny’s MP3, you also hear his breathing.

heavyblow on February 27, 2008 at 2:32 pm
98

Randy Jackson asked David why he didn’t sing the first verses, and David said it’s because he likes the last verse best.

I think he didn’t sing the first verses because they describe the absence of Heaven, Hell, and religion. David is Mormon and young. I believe he wouldn’t be willing to sing those lyrics because he disagrees with them, and thus, doesn’t fully appreciate or agree with the meaning of the song.

I think he sang very, very well, and I enjoyed his performance. I think it’s probable, though, that he cherry-picked lyrics he found innocuous so he could get people in an emotional lather with his performance. I can’t exactly support that, given the entire song’s message.

Ripley on February 27, 2008 at 5:04 pm
99

Life is much easier if we assume everything is rigged. Then we don’t have to take responsibility for our own shortcomings and failures–how can it be our fault if it’s all rigged?

Rigging is like conspiracy–the reason it is almost always untrue is because as humans we allow our emotions and egos to undermine our most intelligent plans, and if that doesn’t do it, randomness and chaos will screw it all up anyway. Conspiracy is exceedingly difficult to pull off.

Do the producers of AI try and “force the cards” in whatever ways they can? Perhaps. But the degree to which this can actually happen and the impact it ultimately has I would argue is far less than either they would like or that most of these conspiracy theorists would imagine.

rascal on February 27, 2008 at 5:10 pm
100

well said, rascal!

ripley, david sang the whole “imagine” years ago on a utah tv station. go to youtube and search.

i do suspect that the reason he skipped the 1st verse was b/c he might think that it’s controversial for the show and might jeopardize votes with religious freaks. (blake got griefs last year for singing that 1st verse).

i can’t fault david for skipping that. his current job is to sing well and get votes to move forward. you do what you need to do. within legal and ethical limits, of course.

heavyblow on February 27, 2008 at 5:19 pm
101

I predict that iTunes will sell more of this single than from any other Idol contestant.

abbala on February 27, 2008 at 5:26 pm
102

combined!

heavyblow on February 27, 2008 at 5:27 pm
103

heavyblow, people actually complained about Blake’s singing the whole song? I didn’t know that. If that’s true, it’s quite sad.

Ripley on February 27, 2008 at 5:31 pm
104

Just a reminder to those who think the winner is already chosen…don’t count your chickens before they hatch.

This is just the beggining of the competition and any thing can happen.

Though the early crowd fav may be David (I’m one in that crowd)…he’s not garranteed to be the final winner. The voting public can pull an upset in the blink of an eye…prime example are the two early favs from seasons 5 & 6:

1. Chris Daughtry
2. Melinda DooLittle

Chris was pre-maturely being hailed as the crown winner…as well as Melinda who came week after week with almost flawless performances…yet each got voted off by the voting public (or for the sinics amoungst us…AI) before the crown jewels could be placed on their heads.

Let’s all just sit back and enjoy the ride.

feaqs on February 27, 2008 at 5:39 pm
105

yes, ripley. at americanidol.com board. but that place is filled with ALL kinds of people. lots of nuts over there. some interpret ‘no religion’ to mean no God. and just went beserk, like it was the first time they ever heard of that song. of course, they were also blake haters so they were looking for anything to grieve about him.

heavyblow on February 27, 2008 at 5:40 pm
106

Rascal, I like your comments and insight. I had a terrific Aussie Shepherd named Rascal. He too had great insight.

Spriggzoid on February 27, 2008 at 6:19 pm
107

feaqs: There is no question that David Archuleta will win at this point. Simon Cowell will trash him in the middle of the season saying he may not be ready, etc. just to make us worried but in the end he will triumph. The kind of fan support he is getting now is indicative of Carrie Underwood’s support very early in Season 4. The dollar signs are in the stars. American Idol will not allow this kid to go and not win.

Chris Daughtry didn’t have the rabid fans that Taylor Hicks had even if everybody “thought” he was going to win — Taylor Hicks had fans from the very beginning so that was not really a shock. And Melinda Doolittle clearly had no visible fan support, even if she was the acknowledged best singer last season — didn’t I say at some point that she was not going to win?

American Idol is a popularity contest and David Archuleta has everything going for him now on many levels. Fox has found their answer to High School Musical and Hannah Montana, so yes, sit back and enjoy the ride.

Rickey on February 27, 2008 at 6:30 pm
108

Does the itunes version include all of the verses?

laureldj on February 27, 2008 at 6:33 pm
109

I thought David Archuleta was the ONLY contestant who gave a good performance this night. And Archuleta’s performance was so great it just blew everyone else out of the water. I don’t think this kid CAN mess up a performance, but it may be that Idol will find some style of music that he’s not as good at as others. I kinda doubt it, though!!

I would go buy a David Archuleta CD in a heart beat. In fact, I can’t WAIT to do just that!! I can’t say that about ANY other contestant now.

davedc on February 27, 2008 at 6:48 pm
110

David A has amazing talent. Regardless of whether he wins, he is definitely going to do well in the industry.

He is very good imo, however I don’t like the overpimping. It’s going to hurt him in the end and he doesn’t deserve that.

I hate the fact that the producers are pushing him into a teen idol. True, that would work, but I think he has the potential to be more than that. This overpimping and screaming girls at the sound of his name could be a big turn off to many. People will then automatically stereotype him as a typical 17 year old. You can see that he really loves to sing and passionate about it. Please AI, don’t spoil him don’t limit him to just a tool of attracting teens, to increase rating etc, but sadly, if he wins, that is exactly what would happen.

Personally, I would like to see him grow into a performer like Josh Groban. He certainly has the vocals for that.

Legolas on February 27, 2008 at 6:55 pm
111

Rickey, thank you for saying that. You saved me time from writing exactly just that.

Legolas, I don’t think AI is overpimping David. He had a pimp spot this week, but last week he was in the middle of the show. And how can you stop the girls from screaming?

The fact is David is 17 and cute and adorable and a great singer. Girls gonna scream with no help from AI. You’ve seen nothing yet. Wait until they get on the big stage in the top 12.

The girls (and boys and men and women) will scream and no one will mind. David is simply irresistible.

Haters, get used to it.

heavyblow on February 27, 2008 at 7:51 pm
112

Everyone’s entitled to their own opinion and it seems a lot of people appreciate David and his performances. I, too, really enjoy watching him sing and it makes me happy that he’s so humble with his talent. I hope he wins, and I would buy his CD in a heart beat as well davidc, as for people who don’t think he’s all that…I don’t see any other contestant better, but that’s JMO.

ArchAngels on February 27, 2008 at 7:57 pm
113

heavyblow,

I know what you mean. I am just worried that if and when he wins, the producers would force him into something he is nnot, which would truly be a crime since he has the potential to be much much more.

Legolas on February 27, 2008 at 8:13 pm
114

The one to beat?? Remember Simon said the same thing to Lakisha who could do no wrong at the beginning of her season.

socal09 on February 27, 2008 at 8:34 pm
115

I can’t believe how many say they hate the pimping and say they won’t for him..as if it were his doing..They are pimping him because he is adorable, cute as a button, respectful and talented as all hell! If I were doing a tv show I would pimp him also. And just because he’s being singing for years doesn’t mean he’s comfortable when he gets praised. I believe he is flattered that all 3 judges like him cause perhaps he feels he’s just average. I don’t like when I get praised alot myself if I do a good job cause I was raised to not pay too much attention to praise. And…last nite when Simon said all the others should be worred cause he was the one to beat..he turned around and said they are wonderful and started to clap for the other contestants. I can’t believe people find fault in that too! He should win, he MAY win but if he doesn’t he has a fan for life in me.

ealbino on February 27, 2008 at 8:54 pm
116

Remeber that this is a contest where the winner is voted on by predominately teenagers. Whats cool is that they usually get it right or the show and the idols wouldnt be successful. Right now David is leading by a 52% margin. He has the rare combination of talent with popularity. Without aging myself, I got a McCartneyesque feeling about him, which I have not felt since Idol started. With this in mind, we should embrace him and feel fortunate we get to enjoy someone of his talent.

jaybublu on February 27, 2008 at 9:02 pm
117

legolas,

don’t think too far ahead. just enjoy him now. one week at a time.

i love it when i have a favorite so early on in the season. you should too.

heavyblow on February 27, 2008 at 9:37 pm
118

ealbino -

I agree with you about David’s modesty. There have been a lot of posts about it everywhere over the last week. People who think it’s an act point to the fact that he has won previous competitions and that he has no doubt been endlessly praised for his talents (likely true), and how could he possibly not know how good he is?

There are a few important factors to consider here:

1. anyone who has ever been a performer or knows one intimately knows that talent and recognition–and even confidence in one’s abilities–does not equate to anything like security. In fact, it’s almost always the opposite: Performers are notoriously insecure.

2. people seem to be completely ignoring the fact that in the grand scheme of things, David matured into a young adult, like, five minutes ago. Anyone remember what THAT was like? Security? Self-assuredness? Hello?!? He’s a completely different person–and performer–than he was even a year ago. Of course he knows he has talent and ability, but the persistent insecurity about whether or not you’re good enough–even in the face of all the accolades–is completely understandable, especially given his age.

3. he may have gotten lots of praise from the local chapter of the Knights of Columbus, and the senior citizen groups, and the regional radio station fundraiser, and yes, he did win Junior Star Search (pre-puberty; see #2 above), but to a young kid who sees his entire future in being a singer, there is nothing–NOTHING–to compare with American Idol. I would suggest that the experience is probably even more amazing and surreal and unbelievable when indeed you do know, deep down, that you are destined for greatness.

And let me say one more thing from a person who, as a kid, had a pretty sizable performing talent: You never get used to the reaction of the audience. It’s why performers endure everything to go back for more. It’s truly astonishing every single time. David just happens to be someone who is completely open and guileless about showing it.

rascal on February 28, 2008 at 1:14 am
119

oh he’s my favourite all right, since “heaven”.

To David A,

Greetings from the woodland realm

Thy voice is as pure and clear as the waters of Nimrodel. Thine star shines brightest in the heavens! Fair thee well!

Legolas on February 28, 2008 at 1:15 am
120

I thought Paula’s comment to him was hilarious: “I want to squish you, squeeze your head off, and dangle your head from my rear view mirror.” You know– now, someone’s going to be selling Fuzzy David Heads soon! Rickey?

somewhatbohemian on February 28, 2008 at 2:25 am
121

point 1:
everyone is acting like he is out of this world and the next big phenomenon. (FALSE!)
point 2:
NO RELEVANCE to today’s music!
point 3:
THERE ARE STARS FROM AI (ie KELLY CLARKSON, who are not only vocally masterful, but artistically too)…..he is NOT!
point 4:
if you’ll actually listen to the notes, and not just look at his “cuteness” or “timidness” you’ll see the flaws (high-low-high-low syndrome, shouting with tone, etc)

but its okay, if you like HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL, then he’s your guy.

cdb1025 on February 28, 2008 at 3:09 am
122

JORDIS UNGA “IMAGINE” > DAVID A. “IMAGINE”

cdb1025 on February 28, 2008 at 3:11 am
123

*****sanjayasucks*********

1) when he’s voted off during top 4, give me the honors to laugh in your face

2) if for some reason the pimpage gets him the win, give me the honros to laugh in your face when the career fizzles.

3) get your quotes right

cdb1025 on February 28, 2008 at 3:42 am
124

I can see a love and hate relationship with this kid, but at least he is the only one I see who sing with his heart, not the best vocal though but he knows how to use his talent. Moreover he is young and likeable. Just hope the glamour or pimpaged didnt get over his head, so David, keep singing with your heart, kid.

HK18 on February 28, 2008 at 4:00 am
125

David A’s video on youtube is generating both praises and nasty comments, and I mean really nasty.

What has his sexual orientation got to do with singing? Why do people love to think everyone has something to hide? Why get anoyed that he omitted the first verse in “Imagine” then after that bashed his beliefs? If you want people to respect your atheism, conviction, you must also respect others who has religions.

Why do people persist in choosing to believe untruths than the truths? When a contestant acts all cocky and arrogant, you say “he’s very arrogant, I don’t like him”. When another contestant gets bashful after receiving praise from the judges, you say “he’s faking modesty”. why can’t you say “oh he’s so modest” or, “he’s faking cockiness”. ? No wonder this world is turning into hell, because most of us would rather misunderstand others than accept the plain simple truth. We rather believe the bad in others, even if it is only a rumor, than the truth, even after the person concerned has denied the rumor time and time again. Sad.

Legolas on February 28, 2008 at 4:55 am
126

Amen to Rascal and Legolas..I couldn’t have said it better myself.. I like the way this person put it..

Give it a rest and accept it for what it was: a beautifully sung and moving rendition of a great song from a genuinely humble, sweet guy.

ealbino on February 28, 2008 at 10:09 am
127

Aww. Just simply sweet. Anyway, it is impossible for everyone to like someone. So just let them rant all they want. They have their favourite and we have ours – David A!

Again. He is amazing. Looking forward to seeing his next performance!

devchk on February 28, 2008 at 10:18 am
128

In case anyone is curious about David’s sincerity (and perhaps even a few other topics…), check out the following long-form interview posted at MyFoxBoston.com.

Judging from this (it’s by far the most face-time available on David at the moment), I would say that he is as professional as he is genuine (”Do you want this right into camera or should I look at you?”). That’s a rare and winning combination. This kid is no fool–and no phony, either.

Scroll down and select “David Archuleta Interview, Feb 18, 2008″:
http://media.myfoxboston.com/special/head/FOXTV/american-idol.html

rascal on February 28, 2008 at 4:08 pm
129

Thanks for the link, Rascal.
My, that was one longggggggggg interview!
ITA with your assessment of David- professional and genuine. The real deal. Big, big talent and such a winning personality. He just makes me smile.

chattycb on February 28, 2008 at 4:59 pm
130

Yes, people should watch that interview before jumping to conclusions.

Legolas on February 29, 2008 at 4:42 am
131

I didn’t think I could love this kid more until now. That video shows it – He is the real deal, humble, a bit shy, a little doubtful of his gift and totally dedicated to making people smile with his music. I hope the jealous hataz out there don’t bring him down cause he is simply precious.

ealbino on February 29, 2008 at 8:40 pm
132

ealbino: You took the words right out of my mouth. Even if I didn’t fall in love with his singing (I personally don’t think it’s the best AI performance I’ve seen, but it’s a great one), I love him for his personality. He’s so geniuine, young, humble, and sweet. A rare combination in an entertainment world like this. He’ll go far.

shilvhwaiixp on February 29, 2008 at 10:14 pm
133

I haven’t been watching AI7 – I keep forgetting, but I listened to this audio because I did like his “O Holy Night” from December when I heard it on youtube.

From this audio you uploaded, Ricky, I think the clear and pure-voiced David must be the most MUSICAL singer I’ve heard on AI.

As for Blake’s version last year, it was the worst ‘Imagine’ I have ever heard, one of the reasons being that he can’t sing lyrics sincerely and he can’t do a natural downward spin on notes like the ones that come just before “You may say I’m a dreamer” right after “Living for today” without doing heavy stopped aspirations.

anieb on March 1, 2008 at 8:10 am
134

shilvhwaiixp – and to think that MSNBC is saying that his “humility” may be his downfall because people will get sick of it. Unreal..you’re damned if do and damned if you don’t as they say..

Commentary
By Andy Dehnart
MSNBC contributor
updated 3:50 p.m. ET, Mon., March. 3, 2008
David Archuleta has an incredible voice, delivers age-defying performances, has charm and charisma, and holds the front-runner status on “American Idol 7.”

He also has a problem: those things are actively working against him. In fact, everything that has led to near-universal praise for the “American Idol 7” semifinalist may actually prevent him from winning.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23449177/

ealbino on March 4, 2008 at 10:12 am
135

Denhart is the most dangerous kind of cynic: one who doesn’t even realize the degree of ethical laziness and moral deficiency he is perpetuating with his bankrupt theories. Suggesting that David game the system by not giving his best is no less a transgression than insider trading or pro sports on steroids. It doesn’t matter how you win, he argues, only that you win.

This despicable suggestion might not be so vivid if it weren’t for some of the particular attributes of David himself, those which are quite apart from his considerable musical abilities. David has a kind of shimmering purity that is almost exclusively the domain of innocence, idealism, and a passionate commitment to excellence. And if it isn’t bad enough that Denhart wants David to sacrifice the very integrity that makes him so appealing in the first place, he goes on to suggest that he dial-down the humility for it’s own sake. Add more “cockiness,” he says.

The moment David capitulates to the smarmy machinations that seduce the weaker and downtrodden among us is the moment we lose what we love and admire about him. Crawl back into your cave, Denhart.

rascal on March 4, 2008 at 1:56 pm
136

rascal, love your writing.

As for Denhart, maybe he’s just worried that what happened to Melinda, who was accused of the same (uniformly excellent performances + humility, all of which apparently worked against her) will happen to David because of the kind of ‘world’ that AI is.

anieb on March 4, 2008 at 7:27 pm
137

I think David Archuleta is the best AI contestant ever! His version of “Imagine” was simply MAGICAL. I am convinced that John Lennon must have written that song specifically for him! Greater voices have covered that song, but none matched the sincerity, yearning, and hope for mankind that that song was meant for. The hopeful idealism of a man/child was perfectly emoted by him. I think what made it great was not just his voice, it’s also his charisma, his body language and his facial expressions, especially his eyes, as he was singing it. He was able to communicate the message of the song so effectively, so earnestly, and so believably that it appeared effortless. You’re left with but one thing: to believe. I feel like his voice alone can heal a thousand broken hearts, and his smile can simply melt away all the world’s sadness. He sang with such sincerity, with his body and his soul and I couldn’t stop smiling every time I see him on the screen. He’s just AWESOME! That performance had heralded to the world that he has arrived and this will be the beginning of a great career to come. I predict that people will be talking about this for years and years from now! Great going and thank you, thank you David for sharing your gift with the world!

daisawesome on March 7, 2008 at 11:40 pm
138

OMG this is Magical

papriko on March 10, 2008 at 3:47 am