David Archuleta Retrospective Series Part Four: Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me

 By Pamela Pike and Rosanne Simunovic

The Shining Star of the AI Finale in May 2008 sang, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.” Clive Davis picked the first round of songs and David picked the first single from British musician Elton John’s 1974 album Caribou. It was released that year during the latter half of May in the United Kingdom, and on June 10, in the U.S.

Immersed in a spotlight and seated on the mid-stage steps, David Archuleta took a slow walk to the front of the stage and poured out a worthy ballad.

He delivered amazing vocals; his voice was so clear, so pure, and so similar to his other performances on Idol. He always brings something special to a performance and rarely ever misses a note, if any.

He performed as perfect as a singer can perform with flawless talent, and gave a superior stellar performance.

Randy told David that it doesn’t matter what happens, he has to know one thing – this was one of the best performances this whole season and he picked the right time to peak. David had nailed his performance and the judges said that his singing was beautiful and stunning. Simon told him that the song was the best he’ done so far in the competition.

Paula commented to David after his performance, “the sun is never going to go down on you, because you bring out so much sunshine.”

Her comment reminded me of some cute and funny moments during the American Idol Tour. Weather was an issue for the Idols on tour when they were meeting fans at the buses. Often it was overcast or raining causing a delay or canceling them completely.

In one city a fan was talking with Jason Castro and David hadn’t come out yet, and she was worried it would start raining and prevent his greeting fans. Jason proceeded to re-assure her not to worry that as soon as David comes out so would the sun and it did.

So you see Paula was right “the sun is never going to go down on you”, and it never will.

Rosanne Simunovic's Recollections

David's "Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me" was one of the most brilliant, emotional performances I have ever seen on the American Idol stage. It was two minutes of musical magic, mesmerizing, almost hypnotic. I couldn't take my eyes away from the television screen.

I was absolutely overwhelmed with depth of his musicianship. The phrasing, the nuances, the dynamic range, the soulful expressivity, the meaningful articulation of the lyrics, the pacing - it was all there in this singular performance of this Elton John classic.

It's funny - looking back, before I heard David's performance, I wasn't thrilled with David's selection. Over the years, this song had been performed countless times on American Idol, the first time being when Season 2 Runner-Up Clay Aiken used the song to catapult him into the Top 12.

So, here we were once again, five years later, watching another performance of this song by Top 2 performer, David Archuleta. What more could David do with this song that hadn't already been done?

Well, as it turns out - plenty! There were so many twists and turns in this two-minute masterpiece performance that I remember staring at the TV screen in absolute awe.

Here is what I had to say about this song via my Top 2 Vocal Masterclass article in May 2008:

"Your first number, Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me was a brilliant performance, overflowing with style and substance. I have heard this song performed many times and performed well, I might add! However, your interpretation was, for me, the pinnacle of all past performances of this number. It left me in tears – first time all season!

I loved the opening ambience of this number, a sole spotlight on you seated at center stage on the stairs. It not only created a relaxed mood, but also the measured and unhurried pace allowed you to ease into this song. By doing so, you were conserving your adrenaline for the dynamic vocals that were to follow and, boy, did they ever!

However, before we move there, I should applaud you on your excellent posture while seated on stage. Your elevated rib cage provided consistent support to your resounding baritone vocals.

You even had one foot ahead of the other – one foot on one stair and the other on the stair above it -which all singers should freely adopt, particularly while standing. This allowed you to establish a forward position with your body, thus assisting you to generate a forward momentum within your phrase lines. Additionally, you were primed to move easily off the stairs when you changed positions and walked to the front of the stage.

Additionally, your hands and arms were relaxed and free – no tension there whatsoever. You were primed and ready to hit a home run and so you did as the song moved effortlessly and with astonishing artistry to home plate.

I loved that determined walk to center stage, as your pitch perfect vocals started their crescendo toward the climactic end of this song. You added some exciting new soulful elements to this song, gently but distinctly bending the melodic line with passionate artistry and sensitivity."

This was indeed a very special night for David. He performed three outstanding numbers and hit a home run with each of them. But, this song was his shining moment - it left me breathless and so thankful that we were blessed with his enormous talent via the American Idol process.

"Begin" with David Archuleta

At any point in your experience of life, you can make a change, find a new direction, or take a new path. Each day can be a new beginning if we choose to make it so.  The toughest part is deciding exactly who we want to become, and having the courage to see it through. 

 

There is a spirit of newness in David’s heart at this time.  You cannot help but feel inspired and enthused by it, you cannot help being caught up in it.  To David’s fans his life may seem perfect and complete, but he may know places in his life and heart that call for light and upliftment.  His mission provides a time, for the changes, inner and outer, that he may have dreamed of making but had not yet dared to set into motion

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This is a blessed time in his life and he has the opportunity right now to make changes for himself and many others in our world.  He will affect change in every one who crosses his path.  If you’re having a “bad” day and feeling sad and frustrated, and David approaches you wearing a big smile and obviously in a place of joy, and says something nice to you or gives you a few words of encouragement, you immediately feel better and your vibration rises out of the hopeless despair into one of at least some hope and brightness.

 

David is aware the only way to bring into your life the desires of your heart is to believe it in your heart and live by that knowing.  He is continuing a path that honors God and draws him closer. 

 

David’s release of his new album “Begin” on August 7, 2012 is a much anticipated album.  As reported it will offer fans standout original and cover songs. Will it be music that inspires, encourages and lifts people spirits? Perhaps, as that would make sense in line with David’s mission. Whatever direction this album goes I am sure it will display the vocal, songwriting, and musical growth of this gifted and talented artist.

David will not be embarking on a regional promotional tour so it’s up to his fans to spread the word and promote this album. Let’s give him the support he deserves and show him just how remarkable his fans are and get his album to the top of the charts.

David Archuleta Retrospective Series Part Three: Love Me Tender

By Pamela Pike and Rosanne Simunovic

Pamela Pike's Recollections

It was Top 4 week and the theme was songs by Artists from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. David chose Love Me Tender an oldies love song sung by Elvis Presley, in the movie, Love Me Tender.

When a singer attempts an Elvis Presley song the first thing you think is how bad will it sound? Elvis songs have a special place in people’s hearts and cannot be sung by everyone, except for David Archuleta.

He tenderly caressed Love Me Tender, held it in his heart and sang it with loving passion. He always takes his songs to another level and the words seemed almost ethereal.

David’s voice and emotions were just perfect for this song as he sat on a stool looking into his audience with those beautiful eyes. It was an amazing performance that brought tears to many, and you knew many fans were melting as he murmured the lyrics.

While the piano played softly, his gentle simplicity and gift caressing every word had the audience in his hands.

David wasn’t familiar with the song and searched for different versions. He worked on an arrangement and with his velvety smooth voice sang a romantic ballad for the first time on American Idol.

This song has enjoyed a long life beyond its initial success. A score of other covers by a wide variety of artists have been done. But I feel David’s version has always been the most touching and memorable.

David and his love songs had remained an unexplored area of his remarkable career until that performance.

As Simon said, “David, you didn’t beat the competition tonight, you crushed the competition tonight.”

Rosanne Simunovic's Recollections

"Love Me Tender" must be one of the most beautiful love songs ever written. There is something truly special about this song. The simplicity of the lyrics and the melodic line speak to the heart.

The old adage less is more could not be more appropriate when one listens to this song. The absence of clutter in the composition of this number is what allows a singer to communicate the words in a genuine, heartfelt manner.

And no one did this better than young David Archuleta when he took to the stage during his Top 4 American Idol Season 7 performance. He took a very simple melody and delicately weaved a soulful vocal pattern through the original melodic line.

It was a heartfelt and moving performance, one that reminded all of us how absolutely brilliant he is with his interpretive skills. He is a unique, genuine artist and this song, having been sung by so many singers over the years, never sounded fresher or more current. I think King Elvis would be proud.
Looking back to my American Idol Top 4 Vocal Masterclass Evaluation, I stated:

Then you offered us a poignant – yet singular – performance of the Elvis Presley classic, Love Me Tender. Oh my, what more is there to say here! The camera never left your face, thus providing emphasis to the visual and aural expressiveness in your performance. It was heartfelt and sincere and every word in this tender love ballad was articulated with impeccable inflection and nuance.

The melodic variations you incorporated throughout this number were musically inspired – yet, thankfully, not overdone. The emotional core of the song remained intact, as you singularly interpreted this number in a way that will certainly raise the eyebrows and perk the ear lobes of record producers around the world. Pure brilliance

Also, once again, you were musically naked on that stage, backed only by a beautiful piano accompaniment. Therefore, the beauty and magic of your incredible singing voice was once again firmly established in the ears of the listener.

There was no clutter, no distraction, no smoke and mirrors with either performance. All the focus was directed to what this singing competition is all about – creating phenomenally strong and memorable vocal performances with sincerity and with love and with passion. And nobody delivered this “package” as well as did you, young David.

Four years later, I wouldn't change a thing! Special words for a special young artist!

David Archuleta - He's Incandescent

The dictionary has some great definitions of incandescent, and the ones that personally suit this picture of David Archuleta recording “Rainbow” are,

l. The emission of visible light by a hot object.  2. The phenomenon of light emission by a hot object. 3.  A high degree of emotion, intensity, or brilliance.

David seems to glow in this picture and looks genuinely humbled by the moment.  It immediately reminded me of the divine strength within him.

He takes the art of singing beyond the voice itself.  Singing doesn’t come any smoother than when he gently pours out a romantic ballad like” Rainbow”, articulating every syllable while seamlessly spinning phrases into musical paragraphs.

He believes in what he is singing.  Each tone resonates with a part of his body and each note can melt a heart of stone.  He has elegant simplicity and passion in every dimension.

He is filled with the spirit of the music.  David is a true musician and a true vocalist; his lyrics go through his mind and heart.  He knows exactly how he wants a song to sound.  No matter how focused he is on his singing, he is also aware of everything around him and every instrument.

David Archuleta is a clean cut crooner a tempest of sentimentality with passion and fire.  He takes us on a journey into his heart and shows us some hidden treasures.

 

God has used music to speak to him in so many different circumstances of his life.  God has never stopped walking with him, whispering in his ear words and songs of love.

Off the stage and out of the spotlight David is even more amazing singing for the Lord.  He has a depth to him rarely found in someone so young, and he isn’t afraid to open himself up for the entire world to see.  The heart of David Archuleta is colorful, vibrant and unrestrained.  His heart is as beautiful as his voice and that is something extraordinary and rare. 

David Archuleta - Covers

Cover songs reveal much about artists, from their ability to simply sing or play their instrument to their own tastes in music.

By playing covers it’s a means for creative expression.  An opportunity to play with different songs formats, song structure and chord patterns.  It also exposes artists to different melodies, rhythmic motifs and lyrical ideas.  An example of this is David rendition of Gnarls Barkley’s “Crazy.” He made it elegant, taunt and heart grabbing.

For artists that write and perform original music, cover songs are a chance to add some familiarity to their performances.  Recording cover songs can help people find your music.

David gets to know his favorite artists, i.e. Eva Cassidy who inspired “Imagine” by learning their songs.  Every song he learns there may be many other ideas that come up for his own material later on. 

I enjoy hearing David doing a cover in his own way, in his own style, I get hooked every time. Being touched, moved and inspired by what he is saying.  His choice of covers flow from him as if he’s been performing them forever.

A successful cover established the heart of what made the original a hit, and also takes a different direction along the way. It’s a sign of respect and love for the artist or the song.

I once asked David what was his determining factor in choosing to do a cover on a song, was it the melody, the lyrics or just a feeling.  He said it’s usually a feeling about the song and if he felt he could contribute something to the song.

When I heard his reply I smiled inside as David could always contribute something to a song and make it better.

It has been leaked that David’s upcoming album this fall has him singing “Bridge over Troubled Water”.  It was the fifth and final studio album by Simon & Garfunkel released on January 26, 1970. It reached No. 1 on Billboard Music Charts pop albums list and won a Grammy Award for Album of the Year.  It has sold over 25 million copies worldwide.

Paul Simon wrote this about providing comfort to a person in need.  It started as a modest Gospel hymn but became more dramatic as he put it together.  At first Simon thought the opening lyrics were too simple: “When you’re weary, feeling small.  When tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all.”  He later realized that it was this simplicity that helped give the song a universal appeal. 

Is this a small clue that David’s upcoming album may be a diversity of Gospel hymns?  I certainly hope so.  I can’t think of anything that would be more appropriate and inspiring as an album of David covering this genre.

David Archuleta - Stadium of Fire in Utah

Revisiting some lovely photos of David at the Stadium of Fire event July of 2010!

David Archuleta - Admiring His Happiness

Some people describe happiness as the feeling you experience when you realize that everything is exactly as it should be, some define it as the state of feeling that you experience after reaching your goals while others define it as a having inner peace.

I admire David Archuleta for his unselfishness, his kindness, his good manners, his honesty and encouragement.  There are many things we do today, that we would never have attempted or accomplished had it not been for his encouraging words.

I admire the way he serves his Lord, with dedication and honesty and integrity. He is without a doubt the kindness person I’ve ever known.  He takes each day as it comes, accepts it as a gift from God and does his best.

Nearly every time you see him he’s laughing, or at least smiling.  And he makes everyone else around him feel like smiling.  Even after spending only a few minutes in his presence you can’t help feeling happier.

David is the happiest I have ever seen him.  All the pictures I’ve seen from the start of his Mission have been a look of contentment and joy. It seems he has found happiness in reaching a goal and perhaps now has inner peace.

Those who make a life of happiness for themselves are the real dreamers, the people who dared to live their life to the fullest.  Deep within the meaning of life, it calls us to come inside and experience it.

David is experiencing life and will serve others and teach them that truth shall be found by those who seek it, salvation be given to those who yearn for it, light to those in the dark and revelation where there is mystery.

Socrates said that “The unexamined life is not worth living.”

Part of happiness is the reflective recognition of the fact that we are happy and have goodness in our lives.  Without examining our lives, our environments, the people around us, and both reflecting on the past and thinking about the future, we would not be able to recognize the extent of our happiness

How can someone so young teach us so much?