Saturday, December 31, 2011

David Archuleta - My Kind of Christmas Tour


The lights have dimmed, the stage cleared and the band has left.  They were a normal bunch of guys, amazing musicians and had a great quality to their playing and engaged the audience. Where ever they continue to perform I wish them well.
David has the ability to surround himself with loving and talented people and that couldn’t be truer than with Sunny Hilden David’s friend and co-writer of Fa La La La La.
We greatly appreciated the special attention that she gave us at several of David’s My Kind of Christmas Tour concerts. The effect you had on us was tremendous. We loved having you at the Meet and Greet accompanying David.  We Dreamed Sky High and received love, friendship and memories which will bless us the rest of our days.
Sunny’s CD, You Are Here, has a song, “Tis the Season” she wrote which I find mirrors many feelings at this time of year.  The bridge of her song –
For each moment of bliss
We grow stronger for our dreams
For each soul we still miss
Life is longer than it seems
And if only we believe
In all our blessings everywhere
The gifts of hearts we open
Will be gifts for all to share

Beautiful words, a beautiful song, such a lovely gift.  You must listen to her entire CD; you will find a spiritual comfort to her songs you won’t want to miss.
David Archuleta’s Holiday concerts were outstanding.  He is an amazing artist who captivates his audience and puts you up in the clouds over the moon.  His vocal range is incredible and he demonstrates his love for the Holiday Season with songs like, “Ave Maria” and “O Holy Night.”
This was real music, the way it is supposed to be.  They were magical evenings.  He is a very special singer blessed with a unique and angelic voice.
The audiences were filled with people of all ages and genders.  These were lovely concerts and definitely put you in the Christmas spirit.  I was still glowing a few days later. 
David’s unbridled adoration he receives from every concert generates an exciting performance.  I noticed at his Ventura concert he enjoyed the intimate venue and thrived on the crowd’s enthusiasm and energy.
They were as near perfect of an evening you could ask for and his charity outreach for Child Fund left you feeling we need to do more.
Hold these concerts close to your heart as we may need to wait awhile for a repeat tour.

Friday, December 30, 2011

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

David Archuleta - Saying Goodbye

A few days have passed since I said goodbye to David Archuleta and perhaps now I might be able to describe the feelings I had that night.
 Who would have thought it would have been so difficult for me to express my feelings and thoughts as I have been doing that for a few years in my articles and in my recent book about David “Through Our Eyes”.  But it was the most difficult few minutes I have ever experienced.  I have said goodbye to a loved one leaving for the Vietnam War, family and friends moving far away, and other occasions of separation from those I care deeply about.
How do you say goodbye?  The French have several different customs of saying goodbye; the one I like best is Adieu (pronounced ah dee yuh) it translates to “God be with you” and is generally used when you know that you won’t see the person in question for a long time. 
 As adults we experience traumatic emotions when someone we are attached to leaves us for any reason.  You hug them goodbye and all you want to do is hold on forever but you let go, smile and walk away. That is when love hurts the most.
Some Ancient teachings explain there is no goodbye. There is no separation because we are all one.  I believe that we are all one.  A person can go out of our life for a while, but the truth is we are not separate. This is easy to say but hard to put into practice.
As I struggled against the idea of saying goodbye I knew it was important to be honest with David and let him know I practiced the night before what I was going to say to him so I wouldn’t cry in front of him.  His smile told me what I needed to know, that he understood and that emotions were running high for everyone that evening,
I gave him the encouragement he deserved explaining to him that he would be a marvelous missionary, but in my opinion he already demonstrated that by his continuous support when I showed interest and joined the church.
While it is incredibly easy to get caught up in all the things the word goodbye brings and ends to, it is essential that we remain thankful for the moments we were lucky enough to have.
While it was hard to say goodbye, the hundreds of memories I made, were well worth the price.  While my soul is deeply saddened at the inability to now create memories on demand, I realize I have plenty.  I already have a plethora of amazing moments to revisit in my mind.
Our memories are more powerful than we can imagine.  Revisit them frequently and you will find you have the ability to connect with anyone at any time regardless of location.
(My Adieu)
Looking back these past four years
In my eyes appear some tears
How fast it all came
Those sweet four years
Memories appear of happiness and joy
That can’t be replaced for ever more
For now it’s a journey worth doing
A time to share, a time to dare
Something that’s in your heart
The incredible power of Faith
You can do great things
Make your days count
Goodbye for now
You will always have a place in my heart
So when your journey ends
Just remember, fate will let us meet again

Finding such a strong purpose and dream in his life serves to inspire those around him.  I wish him much blessing in all he does and wherever God may place him.

Saturday, December 17, 2011

David Archuleta - Christmas Tour Explodes at Majestic Theater


It was July 1964 and “A Hard Day’s Night”, starring the Beatles just opened at the Majestic Theater in Ventura, California.  The film was a mockumentary describing a couple of days in the lives of the group.
 My sister was eleven and I was fifteen and we lived just a few blocks from the theater.  Being avid fans, I must admit, we went every day for a week.  We never tired watching the Beatles and loved their music. 
As time passed I grew up and moved away and never returned to the Majestic after that fabulous week of Beatlemania watching.  In 1984 the Majestic showed their final movie, “Silkwood” then renovated and turned the old theater into a concert venue. 
Ironically, forty seven years later I find myself returning to see an artist of great talent who sings with heart and soul and covers some of their best songs ever written.  It’s only appropriate that David Archuleta should bring me back to the Majestic Theater during the holidays.  As David says many times, Christmas is the season for friends, family, love, and of course music.
David holds close to his heart the meaning of Christmas and feels the music is used for expressing the feelings and thoughts that help bring people together.
This is the time of year when artists go on tour to share their versions of Christmas classics and some originals that they hope will someday be classics as well.
The minute he walked on stage, the crowd went wild. Starting off the show with “Sleigh Ride”, it was obvious David was going to put on an awesome show.  Once the show got started, there was nothing to do but sit back, listen and enjoy. Listening to his voice makes it clear why millions fell in love with him, but it seems that his voice has only gotten better with time. Something in his timbre and expressive richness behind it wakes up your musical senses.
The crowd at the Majestic appeared to have had the wind knocked out of them by the intensity of Archuleta’s delivery.  Anyone who has experienced David’s concerts knows that there will be moments that take your breath away.  It a moving experience to see this amazing young man perform with such great passion.
The first half of his set included many classic Christmas Carols and some of his pop songs. But as David exploded on stage with “The Other Side of Down” I realized we have an artist in our mist with talent greater than we could have ever imagined. He is a lightning bolt of energy, passion, and has a rare skill to magnetize his audience.  A special moment for me was his rendition of “Climb Every Mountain”.  This was simply a masterful presentation of musicianship on all levels.
He set the night on fire and proved he can sing, dance, engage and inspire all before intermission. 
Upon returning back to the stage after intermission, David had changed into a black jacket and scarf although very handsome my favorite was his vest, black tie and white shirt.  He reminded me of a British rock star of the sixties. 
David shared some traditions on his mother’s side of the family by singing a Spanish/English holiday tune Fa La La La La he co-wrote, and performed with Sunny Hilden. He played maracas and danced some Bachata which was one of the many highlights of the evening. 
Christmas comes once a year and this show made it worth the wait.





Wednesday, December 7, 2011

David Archuleta - My Kind of Christmas Tour Review

When you are in the field of creativity you lose track of time.  Only the flow exists, and sometimes absorbed in the present moment.
As a musician David Archuleta decides how the feeling or interpretation will change as the song progresses.  One can see the effects of a spiritual experience.  His performances are ecstatic and as though he is totally immersed in prayer.  He also has made certain decisions about the spirit and feeling he is trying for, but his actual moment to moment performance decisions are spontaneous.  He seems to have the sense of escaping the normal experience of time.
The humility that he envelopes in the grips of such awe-inspiring aspects of creativity reveal his sensitivity to life’s spiritual qualities.  Great performances involve love and love is the essential component of every spiritual experience.  We hear his love for the music in his singing.  He conveys to his audience his feeling of profound respect and love for the music.
Nobody leaves disappointed.  David has a wonderful stage presence, interacts well with his audience and most importantly provides perfect vocals on all songs new and old.  Ah yes, the songs.
He kicks off the evenings with “Sleigh Ride” and if this and “Drummer Boy” are any indication David seems to be moving in a heavier, groove oriented direction which suits him very well.  The new songs were well received by his faithful fans.  Other highlights of the concerts included, “MKOC-Fa  La La La”, and a stirring rendition of “Ave Maria” continues to delight his loyal fans not to mention winning a new generation of fans. 
He is amazing and demonstrates some new dance moves that excite the crowd.  Cheers of recognition are immediate and the show is paced well. He has matured as an artist and is a dynamic performer.
The industry should stand up and take notice of the “new” David.  A great show.

Saturday, November 26, 2011

David Archuleta - Music, Memories & Emotions

Music, Memories & Emotions

What is it about David Archuleta’s music that can evoke such vivid memories?  Lyrics through music; it is a universal communication that connects with people on so many levels.  Music can elicit strong responses from people and can serve as a sound tract for a mental movie that starts playing in our heads. Music calls back memories of a particular place or event and is an important influence on our memories.  We associate songs with emotions, people and places we’ve experienced in the past.
Music is a very complex system of moving sound through time, and it must be impeccably ordered on three different planes; in melody, harmony, and rhythm.
There’s just something individualistic about the sound of David’s music.  The spotlight shines down…..It seems like every song conjures up memories of a time when you first heard it.
He gives every ounce of emotion that’s in him to convey a song he feels strongly about.  The beauty about his performances is that he gives us a taste of what’s to come and it’s always better than his last.  Bravo David!
He really sings that good and really performs that well, he writes songs and has a point of view.  It’s staggering.  David has become fearless.
It’s good to see David enjoy all the success that comes with the type of heart you need today for longevity.  That is one thing he has that is lacking in a lot of talent today.   The spirited performances, making eye contact with audience members, engaging the crowd verbally, and singing with earnest passion.
His powerful clear voice evokes passion, sensitivity, eloquence and a sense of purpose and intent.  David puts the focus on the song and its message front and center.  His voice is soothing and dynamic with an impressive range.  His songs draw you in with lyrics anyone can relate to instantly.
Learning how to provide the best environment for an artist to feel a certain comfort level in to deliver their talent that’s something that takes time. There are some superstars who are superstars in entertainment, but not really exceptional at the music but David has it all.
What makes David so easy to love?  Is it his innocence, humility, compassion?  The list goes on, or is it just his ability to see life as passionately as he does his music.  Perhaps we will never describe David accurately, all we can say for sure is he’s a gift from Heaven. 
David Archuleta gives us performances that are spiritually awakening with a renewed interest in music that stirs our emotions and inspires our hearts.  We have become protective, compassionate and involved not only with charities but with each other.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

David Archuleta Pictures from Disson Skating Event

A few more of my favorite pictures of David - Pandora's Holiday Moments on Ice

Monday, November 14, 2011

David Archuleta and Holiday Moments on Ice

Much excitement drove me to Phoenix, Arizona to see Disson’s Skating event at the Grand Canyon University Arena on November 12, 2011.

Pandora’s Holiday Moments on Ice showed off the exceptional talents of some of the world’s best figure skaters including Olympic and world figure skating champions.  The quality of skating was excellent and the show was very entertaining. There was a great wealth of talent in the skaters and the choreography.

The music from Manheim Steamroller was perfect for the skaters with performances flowing seamlessly from one to another.  The mixture of beautiful, funny and awe inspiring numbers kept you on the edge of your seat.  The vocals from David Archuleta; well there is something very romantic about a singer with an instrument pouring out his powerful clear passion, sensitivity and eloquence while skaters are gliding and strapping on the blades and taking a spin on a sheet of ice.  There is beauty in gliding along a thin piece of steel over frozen water and admiring their fluidity of movement. 

David Archuleta’s charismatic personality along with his love to entertain makes him genuine.  What truly separate this prince to the thrown from all others are the live shows. For it’s on the stage that David shines the brightest.

He stepped on stage and the magic began.  His voice playing off the skaters making more of the moment and so it happened, the miracle of inspiration was born.  He thrilled the audience and captivated their hearts.

David Performed Patapan, To Be With You, What Child Is This, Silent Night with Chip Davis and a new song by Manheim Steamroller, Above The Northern Lights.  The crowd roared every time he stepped on stage. 



It was a family show that reminiscences of times gone by, appropriate for all ages and genders and the Holiday Season.  Brian Boitano, Michael Weiss, Steven Cousins, Naomi Lange and Peter Tchernyshev, Rachel Flatt, Kimmie Meissner, Yuka Sato, Douglas Razzano, Ekaterina Gordeeva, put on a great show worthy of their talent.

Don’t miss this beautiful Holiday moment when it is aired on November 27th on NBC and again on December 3rd 2011.


Sunday, November 13, 2011

David Archuleta - Disson Skating Pictures

A few more pictures and then a story to follow soon:

David Archuleta - More Pictures from Disson Skating

MORE PICTURES

Disson Skating - Pandora's Unforgettable Moments on Ice

A few rehearsal pictures while I gather my thoughts.  Just arrived back in Los Angeles from
Disson's Skating Holiday Show with David Archuleta and Manheim Steamroller and many talented Olympic skaters.  It was a beautiful show and will share some lovely picures of from Dress Rehearsal and the final performances.  Enjoy!

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Disson Skating - Pandora Unforgettable Holiday Moments on Ice

Look What Just Has Been Offered!  No excuses not to buy tickets! 

David Archuleta singing while beautiful skaters are cutting on the ice!  AND at at discount!!

DONT MISS THIS EVENT -

Special Veterans Day Ticket Offer from Grand Canyon University Arena

33% off tickets to holiday music and ice skating event

Grand Canyon University:
WHAT: In honor of Veterans Day, Grand Canyon University is offering 33 percent off on tickets to the Mannheim Steamroller Holiday Moments on Ice show at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 12. The 33 percent discount is a play on the holiday's unique date this year: 11-11-11. The sale is going on now through 5 p.m. Friday. The live show is being held at Grand Canyon University Arena.
WHERE: Use promotional code VETSDAY to get the discount online at www.gcuarena.com , by phone at 602-639-8999, or at the Box Office on the GCU campus located at
3300 W. Camelback Road
in Phoenix.
ABOUT THE EVENT: Olympic champion Brian Boitano headlines a spectacular skating cast in this one-time-only music and figure skating performance. Mannheim Steamroller, known for its new age and rock take on classic holiday hits, will perform some of their well-known tracks live while the superstar skating cast performs. Splitting the performances with Mannheim Steamroller will be David Archuleta, the American Idol runner-up for the 2007 season.
ABOUT GCU: Grand Canyon University was founded in 1949 and is Arizona's premier private Christian university. GCU is regionally accredited and emphasizes individual attention for both traditional undergraduate students and the working professional in six colleges: the Ken Blanchard College of Business, the College of Education, the College of Nursing, the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Fine Arts and Production, and the College of Doctoral Studies. GCU offers traditional programs on its growing campus, as well as online bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs. The University's curriculum fuses academic and clinical rigor with Christian values to prepare its students to be skilled, caring professionals. For more information about GCU, visit www.gcu.edu .
SOURCE: Grand Canyon University

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

David Archuleta joins "Pandora's Unforgettable Holiday Moments on Ice"

Disson Skating presents another Holiday special with Olympic champion Brian Boitano who headlines a great skating cast with Ekaterina Goredeeva, Kimmie Meissner, Yuka Sato, Michael Weiss, Naomi Lang, Peter Tchernyshev, Steven Cousins, and ice dance champion Shae-Lynn Bourne.

Artists David Archuleta and Manheim Steamroller will be sharing live music performances.

Kristi Yamaguchi, 1992 Olympic champion will co-host the show along with Chip Davis of Manheim Steamroller.

This show is scheduled for November 12th @ 7pm at the Grand Canyon University Arena in Phoenix, Arizona.  NBC will air the special November 27th @ 4pm EST,

Tickets are still available at www.gcuarena.com or call 602-639-8999. Box office at GCU campus located at
3300 W. Camelback Rd.
, Phoenix, Arizona 85017

Saturday, October 8, 2011

David Archuleta - His Transformation from Caterpillar to Butterfly


The butterfly is a symbol of transformation; it represents a level of individual achievement.  The caterpillar indicates that you are on your way but have not reached your goal.

A butterfly’s life cycle has four stages and each stage has a different goal similar to humans.  We start out as infants, grow to children emerge into teenagers and develop as adults.   Butterflies start as eggs, caterpillar, and pupa and adult, so why are these so interesting?

At the caterpillar stage they do not stay in this stage for very long and mostly all they do is eat. The third stage is the coolest stage of all as it is in humans.  It looks as if the caterpillar may just be resting, but the inside is where all of the action is as with our teenagers.  Inside both the caterpillar and teenager is rapidly changing.  As with both, there is an undergoing remarkable transformation going on to become the beautiful parts that make up the butterfly and human that will eventually emerge.  Tissue, limbs and organs have all been changed by the time the cocoon is finished, and is now ready for the final stage of life’s cycle.

Finally when the caterpillar has done all of its forming as with the teenager you will get to see an adult emerge.  As soon as the butterfly has rested after coming out of their cocoon, then they get to fly.

David Archuleta is flying high right now; he found his own voice and is using it wisely.  He has taken control of his career ……..

Butterflies have always been appreciated for their attractive looks.  But, there’s much more than just beauty to see as with David.  He is simply awe-inspiring and witnessing his stages of transformation has been a magical experience.  He is a miracle.

David lights beside us like a sunbeam, and for a brief moment, his glory and beauty belong to our world, but then he flies again, and though we wish he could have stayed, we feel lucky to have seen him.   

David is graceful, varied and enchanting and leads you to the sunny side of life and everyone deserves a little sunshine.


Don’t forget David will be performing November 12, 2011, Pandora Unforgettable Moments on Ice, GCU Arena, Phoenix, Arizona. His My Kind of Christmas Tour starts December 1, 2011 and concludes December 21, 2011 unless more dates and venues are announced.