Ann Arbor: My first David Archuleta concert

Posted on 11/29/2009 by stenocruiser

Hill Auditorium designed for glorious sound ... designed with David in mind?

It is not yet daybreak on a rainy morning as my daughter, Cathy, and I head away from Hamilton to the highways – 403 to 401 to 402 to the border.  We have travelled this route over several years to visit my son, Gary, in the Sarnia area to attend family events, happy occasions.   Gary has made the trip back and forth for the same several years but more recent ones were not the pleasant kind – three years ago it was for my husband’s (his Dad’s) funeral.  Four months after that very sad time Gary was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and his visits to and from Hamilton almost weekly were for treatment.  In late summer this year his trips ceased as he entered into palliative care in his own home.

Our family then travelled those roads constantly to be there for Gary and his wonderful wife.  Our last trip was for his funeral just this past September.   Please know that this preamble is meant simply to explain the mixed emotions – sadness, loss, grief and happiness, anticipation, excitement – that we are experiencing in travelling these “400” roads again.

We are on our way to Ann Arbor to see and hear David Archuleta, that most amazing young man whose beautiful voice, positive messages and faith have been sources of comfort to me over the past couple of years.  Now I will see him in a live performance for the very first time!

The rain has stopped and we approach the Bluewater Bridge where we will cross into Michigan.  We have arrived early as we expect there will be long lines due to Black Friday traffic.  Instead we find it is clear sailing and we are over the bridge and into Michigan in minutes.  Ah, this is definitely the start of all good things.  Now we are travelling different highways, traffic is light, GPS is our friend.  We are heading for Destination David, new memories and happy times.

We have time to shop so off to Target.  We pick up a few gifts – another good thing today.  Time to check into our hotel and then head out for Panera to perhaps meet up with some other fans.  I am shy and am hesitant to approach people to see if they are part of the David fan group so I don’t get to see everybody.  I find out later they are all downstairs and I don’t know there is a downstairs.  I meet TOfan, Refnaf and angelfanofDA(? oh, I’m not sure) in the washroom line.  After I ask if they are going to see David, they say yes and ask where I’m from and then they know who I am so that was fun.   TOfan gave me a David keychain – so very kind.  We wave Canadian flags at each other before the concert starts.

We go to ‘will call’ to get our tickets, wait for inside doors to open and then are escorted to our seventh row seats.  Gradually the musicians come on stage and begin their warm-ups.   An executive of the symphony speaks and then the Disney Radio person says a few words.  The symphony plays a medley of Christmas songs.   And we wait.  Oh, I am impatient but I know the wait will be more than worth it.

Credit: anoonan17/ArchuletaAvenue

David Archuleta is introduced and he strides out, a smile on his face and a wave to the audience.  He is small in stature but quickly becomes a giant on the stage.  It is impossible to take one’s eyes off him.  He actually does glow, yes he does.   No spotlight required.  Then he starts to sing, his voice soaring.  How is it possible for anyone to be that perfect?

The piano is out of my line of sight it being behind a bank of musicians on my side, so I’m unable to see David’s fingers flying over the keys on “1000 Miles.”  So I watch the musicians, their instruments at rest.  Their eyes are all on David; a couple of lady violinists crane their necks to see his performance; the maestro simply stands with arms folded, eyes on David, and smiles in approval and obvious admiration.

Oh my, the glorious symphony – glorious David deserves this glorious accompaniment.  This is simply beyond special.  Every song, every carol, each so heartfelt.  Standing ovations, so deserved.  I have to clutch my hands together under my chin to keep from shaking but tears do fall.  No need for me to comment on each perfectly sung song as others have already done that so well.  After all, how many more superlative adjectives are there?

After the concert, I wait outside for my daughter who is several steps behind me in the crowd.  I watch as people come through the doors and I see so many smiles in the aftermath of such a special performance.   David has made everyone feel so good.

First time seeing David live and it just happens to be at this magical concert. This is indeed an evening to remember.   My daughter and I both enjoyed it so very much.  How fortunate and blessed I am to be here to experience it.  It has meant the world to me.  Thank you, David.

P.S. Edit: Stealth Fields of Gold & WCIT youTubes … audio is incredible. (Thanks ZanessaEfgens!)

Posted in Concert recap, Cool venues, Fan experience, Special event | Tagged , , | 51 Comments

Ann Arbor: A symphony of anticipation

Posted on 11/27/2009 by happy

In my excitement for this evening’s debut of David singing with an orchestra I went looking on the internet for details. The only regret for me is that the marketing director for the NJSO is not as resourceful as the gentleman employed by the A2SO, oh well…today the Michiganers (are they called that?) have all the luck….

Reprinted from AnnArbor.com: … The concert, an addition to the symphony’s regular season, is a bit unusual since the performing arts have been among those especially hard-hit by the economy. “Where other orchestras are cutting concerts to balance budgets, we’re adding a concert,” said Dave Siefkes, the A2SO marketing director. “Symphonies around the country are all trying different things, they are more willing to look beyond the traditional. … The thing that drove it for me was trying to get a broader audience.” Rest of article here.

AnnArbor.com Concert Review
by Roger Lelievre

I’ll admit, after the first half of pop singer David Archuleta’s concert with the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra Friday night, I was struggling to keep my inner Simon Cowell in check. But for the second half, it was Paula Abdul all the way.

The first half of the “Christmas From the Heart” program at Hill Auditorium was a surprising disappointment. Archuleta, “American Idol” runner up in 2008 and thus familiar with the ways of acerbic judge Cowell and the more gentle Abdul, seemed to lack confidence. Control, pacing and pitch were all over the map, and many high notes were left untouched.

Sharply dressed in a dark suit, white shirt and tie, Archuleta appeared most comfortable with the Spanish Christmas carol “Riu Riu Chiu” and Sting’s “Fields of Gold.” He accompanied himself on the piano for Vanessa Carlton’s “1,000 Miles,” and sounded good enough, but was surprisingly weak on his pop hits, “Zero Gravity” and “Crush.”

Was he nervous? Intimidated by his first-ever full show with a symphony? Wishing he were at home for Thanksgiving? Whatever it was, it left me wondering if the millions who voted for him on “Idol” were responding more to his sweet charm than his musicality. But in the second part of the show, both attributes were in evidence — a potent combination that could take him far. During “What Child Is This,” I could see the performer I hope he will eventually become. He sang from the heart and it was pure gold.

This was the Archuleta I was hoping to hear, his voice on standards such as “Ave Maria” and “Silent Night” powerful and filling Hill Auditorium the way it was meant to be filled. The standing ovation after the latter was earned and deserved. He seemed so much more at ease after the break, and his voice reflected the change, especially on the French carol “Patapan” and the lovely ballad “Merry Christmas To Me,” which he said he was performing in public for the first time Friday night.

As for his between-song comments, well, let’s just say he’s got so much energy he seldom seemed to finish a thought, or even a sentence, before he hurried off to the next one. He seemed nonplussed by the screaming teens and tweens and the shouts of “We love you, David” in between songs, and waited patiently for the fuss to die down.

For an encore, he offered an impressive “O Holy Night” that was spiritual and powerful. Then, clutching a bouquet of red roses, he waved to his cheering, screaming fans, touched some hands in the front row, and was gone.

The audience was a cross-generational mix, with many of the diehard “Archies” in the choice seats down front. During intermission there was probably more texting going on than usual at an A2SO concert, and I can’t recall ever seeing glow sticks at the symphony before.

Conducted by Music Director Arie Lipsky, the symphony, as usual, sounded superb. Leroy Anderson’s “A Christmas Festival” got things off on the right foot, but it was Anderson’s familiar “Sleigh Ride” that put me in a holiday mood.

Audience members were clearly delighted with the show.

“It’s fun seeing someone with so much talent, who is only going to get better,” said Ann Arborite Jim Fuester during intermission. “He’s so fresh and has so much energy.”

Carly Dempsey, also a local fan, said she too was thrilled with the performance.

“I like that he’s really honest. When he’s up there, he’s a little shy, but it’s natural. I think he sounded great — it’s impressive what he can do with an orchestra,” she said.

Alas, there were many empty seats on the main floor; upwards of 1,800 (out of 3,500) tickets were sold, according to A2SO Executive Director Mary Stefek Blaske. Although the turnout may not have been what was expected, you have to give the Ann Arbor Symphony credit for trying something different. This new partnership with Radio Disney is exciting and I hope it will continue, with the next show on a non-holiday weekend, which may have had an effect on crowd size.

Meanwhile, this is only the beginning for David Archuleta. It will be fun, someday, to say we saw him when.

Posted in Cool venues | Tagged , , | 31 Comments

Let the Tour begin!

Posted on 11/25/2009 by TOfan

Things are lookin' up ... (Photo: Calgary's lovely Gengen*)

To launch the CFTH tour, a medley of impressions, vids and reviews:

From Kizzi:
Good Morning Snow Angelz – Last night’s concert was, yet again another quantum leap for David fans. Some of the new elements & style of last night’s performance have always been a part of what I felt & visualized when I listened and watched David sing in the past. Dreams do come true!

From the obvious growing confidence during his performances of some of his album songs…

to the two new covers “The Riddle” (and David at the baby grand–what a brilliant combination) and “Fields of Gold” (can’t even begin to describe this one–needs multiple listening to fully appreciate), and throwing in “Prayer of the Children” as icing…

to the tuxedo, black tie and purple shirt…

to Mom & Son duet (Hugs & Kisses & Dancing :) )…

to all the Christmas songs from the upbeat Melodies of Christmas and my personal favorite, Ave Maria (the choir and Kurt at the piano), Pad Thai-A-Pan, and Riu Riu Chewbacca, ending with a simply stunning rendition of O Holy Night.

A gift to his fans…and WHAT a gift. Appears to me, Mr. David Archuleta is finding his groove…Pop, soulful, folksy, reverent…I am beyond amazed at all the elements and style of his first Christmas concert.

This exceeded all expectations and I had some pretty high ones.
****

From BetsyJaney:
This beautiful close-up version of Ave Maria has me insane this morning. SB said he went into a trance – like he was praying. It is very evident here. There are no words for this.

(Photo: Gengen strikes again*)

Salt Lake Tribune Concert Review

Murray teen shows growth during holiday concert

Regardless of David Archuleta’s performance Tuesday night at Abravanel Hall, the tweens and teenagers in the audience would still have shrieked and squealed in delight every time the 18-year-old Murray pop singer sang a note.

Luckily for the rest of us, Archuleta launched his holiday tour in his home state with a rousing, accomplished performance that further illustrated how far he has come since he finished second in the 2008 season of “American Idol.”

Archuleta, who turns 19 at the end of December, ably balanced a show that showcased his pop talent as well as a strong display of covering other’s material — most notably a collection of Christmas standards that closed the show.

While the show was advertised as Archuleta performing selections from his recently released album, “Christmas From the Heart,” the singer began his set with songs taken mostly from his 2008 debut self-titled album. With more confidence and stage presence than he has shown yet, he flexed his vocals through “Crush” and “A Little Too Not Over You” as well as performing his up-tempo rave-up “Zero Gravity.” Archuleta was backed by four musicians, but played piano as he covered Five For Fighting’s ballad “The Riddle,” showing an inkling of a direction his career could take him.

Illustrating a talent for building a solid, thematic set, Archuleta then performed two songs that served as a transition between his opening set and his closing set of Christmas tunes. The highlight was when he was accompanied only by an acoustic guitar, singing a rendition of Sting’s “Fields of Gold” that changed the vocal melody to make the song his soulful own. It was then time for the main show to start.

The curtains pulled back to reveal about a dozen string players along with two guitarists, a bassist and a drummer. With dramatic on-stage lighting illuminating three conical Christmas trees and four ornamental baubles hanging from the rafters, Archuleta came out in a jet-black suit and immediately got going with “Melodies of Christmas,” a new song he said he helped write.

The show was not short on surprises. After starting was seemed to be a somnambulant rendition of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” his mother Lupe joined him to duet, turning a sluggish retread into a poignant refrain. And during a stirring, reverent version of “Ave Maria,” Archuleta was joined on stage by a white-robed children’s choir as well as on piano, local composer Kurt Bestor, who produced and conducted many songs on Archuleta’s holiday album.

Whether singing in English, Latin (as on “Ave Maria”) or French (as on Bestor’s galloping arrangement of “Pat-a-Pan”), Archuleta showed not only a command of the material but an ability to connect with the audience with self-deprecating humor and sheepish but endearing half-waves to the crowd, which nearly sold out the symphony hall.

What was most impressive about the concert was that Archuleta and his team relied not on slick, overly produced Christmas music that would dull the experience, but on a real string section and a lean, stripped-down soft-rock sound that shows an authenticity to the teen, who is turning into a man in front of our eyes.

(*Rest of Gengen’s amazing photos are here.)

Posted in Music review | Tagged , , , , | 51 Comments

Kaleidoscope: A night of inspiration on and off the ice

Posted on 11/21/2009 by KT

Photo credit: David-Daily.com

I was sitting in Row A, Seat 10. Ice chips were flying — literally — as the skaters performed double Salchows. The decision to pay $60 more than a seat directly behind me was easy … we were there to see David Archuleta and the ticket purchase was supporting cancer survivorship for women. But in the end — as is the case with all things David — I got more than I expected. Much more.

Our seats were located stage right, which was where all the skaters first stepped on the ice to warm up or while waiting for TV staging to occur. Some of the greatest Olympians — including Kristi Yamaguchi, Nancy Kerrigan, Dorothy Hamill, and Scott Hamilton — were warming up just a couple of feet in front of me.

What surprised me most about the whole evening was my reaction to watching Scott Hamilton skate. I was touched by his performance. As Scott started his routine, I remembered his triumphs: winning four U.S. Championships, four World Championships and Olympic Gold. I also thought back to his struggles — a childhood disease that stunted his growth, testicular cancer and, most recently, a benign brain tumour. At age 51, his skating boldly defied all the struggles and celebrated the triumphs. More importantly, through his skating, he invited you to do the same thing.

Scott’s performance was so compelling that I wanted to learn more. I went home and did some research and, in the process, discovered something quite remarkable:

On stature

“Scott decided to become a world champion and succeeded despite the resistance of skating judges who believed he was too small to compete at the international level,” said Mimi Elliott.

“You know, I’ve always doubted myself about my talent. I always thought everyone was kinda tone-deaf, and they’re just trying to be nice to me ’cause I’m little.”

On purpose

“You know, it’s funny … skating has always given me life.”

“Music is such a powerful thing because it allows you to communicate with other people. To do that with so many people makes you feel really good…I always thought I guess that’s why I have music in my life and singing because that’s the only way I know how to communicate to people.”

On adversity

“At the height of his career, though, Hamilton faced the greatest threat to his dominance when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer that had spread to his abdomen.”

“They scoped my throat and we found out that I had a paralyzed vocal cord. I was like well, what does that mean? I was like well, is that the end of music for me? I don’t know what that means. I was really distraught to hear that. I was feeling really down during that time because I didn’t know what to do….I was like well how long will the voice therapy take, and they were like a year or two years or more than that, we don’t know, before you will see any results. I was feeling so down.”

On making a connection

“I just try to touch people’s hearts in a way through skating, so they’re not just witnessing a performance, they’re feeling a performance and they’re a part of it.”

“…I’ve just been loving music for so long. It’s been-music’s pretty much my life and just the power that’s in music, it can do so much like it can change how I feel and just how everyone I’m singing to feels and how everyone just appreciates the music…”

Photo credit: twitter.com/annualeventpost

Drive and commitment

“Scott doesn’t know ‘no,’ ” said Francis Fessler. “If you tell him, ‘You can’t do that,’ he knows he can, and he will; and he pushes it that way with everything that he does.”

“But I’ve never let a losing start discourage me from trying to have a winning finish. It just takes committing to the task and being willing to fall down a lot.”

“As I stand before all of you here today, you’re my witnesses; I’m taking that step forward and improving my speaking skills. It really is a difficult step sometimes because it’s almost like we’re fighting this current of fear that’s pushing us back. As we face those fears more and get over that first little hurdle, we can make those weaknesses become our strengths.

“It’s like if you really have the desire and you feel like, no, I want to do that, sometimes even if it is a hard path to take, even if it has those big hills and climbs and all those scary trees and you can get scratches, and you can get hurt sometimes. But I think that’s what makes us grow. That’s what makes us learn in our lives. So when we get to that end of the path we have all those bruises and cuts and you can see that we had a difficult time getting to where we were; but at the same time, you can say, you know what, this is proof that I went and I took that path, and this is proof that I did all I could and that I was willing to take that path even if it wasn’t the easiest path to take.”

On compassion

“You get philosophical … There’s always a bigger fish, you know? And it’s hard to feel sorry for yourself when you know other people are going through things much worse than you are. With my brain tumour I’m hoping that I can really find what I can do with this to really help others. Because every day is what you make it, and every day is a gift,”

“Always try to maintain complete tolerance and always make an effort to give people more than they expect.”

“I would just encourage all of you to think each day how can I help someone with their day today. How can I help them feel better today and just reach out to them and just be of service in any way I can. I would just say just try and make that a goal, even if it just a smile or a hello or a call to someone. It won’t just help that person who you reached out to, it will help you. It will help because it’s like there’s something about helping out people that makes you feel so much better. I really think that when you start thinking less about yourself and thinking more about other people you will feel better about yourself. It’s just really interesting how that works.”

Integrity and authenticity

“The high road is always respected. Honesty and integrity are always rewarded.”

“The best thing you can do to set yourself apart is just be yourself. If you’re fake, you know people find out who you are later, it’s like ‘Well that’s not who we thought you were.’ Being yourself is where you feel most comfortable and people get, you know, they feel that connection the best. That’s the best way to go. You always have to be yourself.”

“I hope that people think good things about me in the future and that I left a good name for myself and for my family and posterity…”

Photo: David-Daily.com

On outlook

“The only disability in life is a bad attitude.”

“Adversity, and perseverance and all these things can shape you. They can give you a value and a self-esteem that is priceless.”

“That’s another one of the things that is so important is to just stay positive about your future. We can look at plenty of things that can make it a scary, hard, bad future; but I could probably think of all the bad things that could happen this week and see how horrible the week could be, but I can take that and flip that around and say wow I’ve so many opportunities to grow and learn this week. I’m sure by the end of the week if I keep that up I will look back and say wow, what a great week I had! I just encourage you all to keep being positive and keep being optimistic about your future. Even if you did have a hard past, a hard life to look back to, you could say wow not all people have gone through what I’ve gone through, and I’ve learned so much from it.

“Who knows, it’s neat to be able to have something that was difficult in your life and then meet someone later on who’s going through a similar thing. It’s like wow! I think I realize why I needed to go through what I went through before because I know I need to help this person right now. It is just really interesting how things work even if you don’t see it right now, it’s amazing how things will work out in the long run as long as you keep your faith and keep looking positive in the future.”

On spirituality

“My faith plays an incredible role in being grounded, being able to let go of all the things that have held me back. With all I’ve faced, I’ve had to let go and move forward. My relationship with God helps me with that.”

“My faith in God was always lifting me to new heights I never could have reached on my own.”

“There is so much that I want to give back to the One who has blessed me with this gift, I feel that there must be a reason why I’m here doing what I’m doing. And I want to make sure that I do what is expected of me before it all ends.”

“I just asked God and said ‘Lord, I keep feeling like I need to go do this and I don’t know why but I just thought I would bring it to you.’ I was, like, why would He care about some kid kneeling down in his room who doesn’t even know what to do with himself in the 10th Grade. But I decided to ask Him. After that I felt so strong and I knew that I had to go audition. I don’t even know why. I was, like, I’m not sure because it’s not like I’m going to get very far in it or anything but I know I just learned something.

“I think what was amazing for me to feel was, like, wow you are small, David, and you are by yourself here in your room, but you do matter and you don’t know what your potential is. You don’t understand fully what someone does. That’s what I kept in mind and that’s what I still keep in mind. It’s like even though I get frustrated with myself sometimes and I feel like oh I can’t do that, I’m not going to be very good, or I won’t be able to get very far from this point, it’s like, David, just remember that even if you feel discouraged remember that someone else always has hope in you.”

On the same page

Yes, at 51 years of age, Scott Hamilton is a testament to reaching one’s potential professionally and personally while maintaining dignity, grace and humour. His life experiences are being channeled toward helping others.

And then there’s David … There is nothing more to say.

He is only 18, yet his music truly speaks for itself. We are his witnesses.

— KT

The First Noël

Silent Night

Pat-a-Pan


Posted in Fan experience, Special event | Tagged , , | 60 Comments

Hot off the presses: Archuleta interviews

Posted on 11/20/2009 by TOfan

No place like home for Archuleta

By Linda East Brady (Standard-Examiner staff)

Nothing says Christmas like coming home. That’s where David Archuleta hopes he’ll be this year — where his heart is, in Murray, Utah.

“In this business, if you get a little time off here and there, many people will stay out where they are working and just relax,” said Archuleta, who is currently in Los Angeles. “But I say if I have time off, even if it is just a few days, I try to get home.

“I am not sure where I will be at Christmas. The tour schedule goes until right before Christmas, and the fact is, there isn’t really just one place I live right now. But I still call Utah home, and try to spend as much time as I can there.”

At the very least, Archuleta will make it home during Thanksgiving week. He plays two shows at Abravanel Hall, on Tuesday and Wednesday. He has played the venue before, once at an event for Sen, Orrin Hatch, and once, this past summer, for a pops concert.

“It was so neat, because I got to sing with an orchestra and choir. That was amazing, because so many people are involved in something like that, in making the song come to life.”

Going places

Ogden producer and DK Studio proprietor Derek Keith has worked with Archuleta since he was 11. He most recently helped get demo and backing tracks ready for this Christmas album and tour.

Keith built a studio for the Archuletas in their Murray house, where they recorded the recent holiday backing tracks and also the demos for shopping Archuleta to labels post-“American Idol.”

Keith met the family by happenstance when he sold dad, Jeff Archuleta, a sound card on eBay and came to help them install the hardware. David was then 11, not yet having had his first brush with national fame on “Star Search.”

“But his voice was already ridiculous,” said Keith. “Maybe even more amazing than it is now, because of the surprise factor. I remember that first day Jeff had him sing me a Christina Aguilera song and I was like, ‘What? Man, this kid will go places.’ And he has, of course. I remember how terribly shy David was back then. And there is still some of that in him, but he has come a long, long way.”

Dean Kaelin, a renowned vocal coach who works out of Salt Lake City, started with Archuleta about the same time as when Keith encountered him. Kaelin not only works with singers on their performance chops, but also on technical issues. He said Archuleta already had a lot of innate style, but he was struggling with a paralyzed vocal chord when he first arrived, likely weakened from a viral infection.

“We started working together when he was going to do ‘Star Search,’ ” said Kaelin. “The vocal chord paralysis has resolved itself for the most part, but it is interesting. I think that is why that David still has a sort a special quality to his voice, that teeny bit of breathiness. It is to his credit that it is not a handicap for him. He worked through it and it gives his voice a sweet, slightly airy quality that appeals to listeners.”

Christmas time

Archuleta said he chose to do a Christmas outing for his sophomore effort simply because he loves the season and the sounds associated with it.

“I could definitely have gone more fun, more mainstream, more radio-friendly and all that, but that is not what I felt I wanted to do with this album,” said Archuleta. “The songs I am singing have a real reverence in them. I felt like I needed to really portray that. Give that to people — what Christmas means to me, the bigger picture. It was a way of giving back, for so much has been given to me in my life.”

Said Kaelin: “We worked together again after his recent summer tour. The pop stuff is demanding on his voice. He has to be careful because when he is doing those tours with the screaming people, he naturally tends to push heavy and loud.

“But this Christmas album demanded some very technical work — ‘Ave Maria,’ ‘O Holy Night’ — things he really had to sing out,” added Kaelin. “But I think his voice is sounding strong, and the Christmas program itself should be kind of nice — a gentler and prettier concert than the pop shows.”

Most of the songs on the album are classics of the holiday, but Archuleta did pen a new number. It’s called “The Melodies of Christmas,” and the song addresses what such music means to him.

“That song talks about the memories that Christmas songs seem to bring back,” he said. “This is the holiday that brings back the most memories. … Like, I remember sitting around the Christmas tree, singing those songs with family. I try to capture that mood.”

Discovering writing

There is no doubt that, though still in his teens, Archuleta has been able to tap into a world-class gift for interpretation. But lately, he has traveled far and wide to be mentored on crafting songs himself.

“For me, I am just beginning to write, but it is so much fun — I love it,” Archuleta said, “As a singer, it is your job to get the message across for the songwriter. But as a songwriter, you are able to tell your own story.

“Sometimes it is like journal writing, but out in the open. Some things I am like, ‘I can’t wait to share this.’ Other things are like, ‘Wow. Yikes! I am not sure I can share this with people.’ “

Archuleta was spending time in Los Angeles, and previously in New York, to work on his next project with several experienced songwriters.

“That is the best way to learn it, to see how other people do things. I’ve found that everyone has their own way of doing things. You really learn a lot — and then figure out what works for you.”

The major lesson learned? Not being afraid to take risks, said Archuleta.

“I had to get where I was not afraid to look dumb,” he said, “That is the biggest thing, not thinking, ‘I don’t want to throw that out there, because someone else might think it is just dumb.’ You have to get over that. It’s been a great thing for me personally.”

************************************

Archuleta still calls Utah home

By Scott Iwasaki, Deseret News

He may hardly ever visit, but singer David Archuleta still calls Murray home.

“I’m not there a whole lot, but I try to go there as much as I can,” Archuleta said during a phone call from New York, where he is filming a TV special for Univision. It will air Dec. 10.

“If I’m in Los Angeles and I have a little break, instead of spending time off in L.A., I just go home for a bit. I’d rather spend it there.”

Although Archuleta will tour for most of the holiday season, he will perform at Abravanel Hall next week.

He’s excited to be performing in a smaller venue than the 10,000-plus-seats venues where he sang this past summer.

“It been a lot of fun getting to do arenas during the summer, but I love intimate settings,” he said. “It feels more real, because the people are right there and they’re not like two miles away.

“You feel less pressure at having to put on a big show for them.”

The “American Idol” seventh-season runner-up said he can be more himself in a smaller venue.

“The smaller it is, the more comfortable it is,” he said. “The more laid back the vibe, to kind of have that more close feel.”

His concert in Utah will primarily be Christmas-themed.

“It will mainly be a Christmas show because it’s Christmastime,” he said. “But I’ll add some non-Christmas songs into the mix, because everyone is familiar with (the hit) ‘Crush.’

“I want to see if I can change things up a little bit.”

Some of the Christmas songs will be on his new Christmas CD, “Christmas From the Heart,” which was released last month.

The songs include “Angels We Have Heard on High” and “Ave Maria,” which were produced and arranged by Kurt Bestor. Bestor also produced “Pat-a-pan” with John Hancock.

Archuleta also worked with Sam Cardon and Richard Parkinson on “What Child Is This,” “O Holy Night” and “Silent Night.”

Other Utah talents who are featured on the CD include guitarists Rich Dixon and Michael Dowdle, harpist Lisa Rytting and vocalists Jenny Frogley and David Osmond.

“It was so fun to be able to have Utah people (on the album),” he said. “We have so much talent in Utah. So why not use them?”

Archuleta, who turns 19 in December, said he hasn’t been able to rehearse for the concerts as much as he would like because he has been so busy.

The day before he filmed the TV special in New York, he was in Washington, D.C., taping “Kaleidoscope,” a skating special that will air on FOX Thanksgiving day.

“It’s been crazy but a lot of fun,” he said.

Archuleta said there really isn’t any way to prepare for the demands of being an in-demand celebrity. That includes the busy schedules and the impact his fame has on his personal life.

“You just take whatever (life) throws at you, and you just learn how to deal with it, even when you don’t think you can,” he said. “It’s about pushing yourself and pushing past what you think are your limits.

“It’s about doing that and figuring out what you can do. That’s how you grow, pushing beyond what you think are your limits.”

  • WHO: David Archuleta
  • WHEN: 7 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday
  • WHERE: Abravanel Hall, 123 W. South Temple, Salt Lake City.
  • TICKETS: $28-$38, available from ArtTix, (888) 451-ARTS
Posted in Music review | Tagged , , , | 23 Comments

Both sides now: The David Foster question

Posted on 11/15/2009 by awestruck

Kaleidoscopelogo-contentOn Monday, Nov. 16th, David Archuleta will perform three Christmas songs at the live taping of the Kaleidoscope event — “an evening of skating, song and survivorship — in Washington, D.C. The program, which was created to raise awareness of key issues surrounding women and cancer, will be broadcast on FOX on November 26 at 4 p.m. ET (immediately following the football telecast).

This event will also feature Vancouver’s David Foster — winner of 15 Grammy Awards, 7 Junos, an Emmy, three Oscar nominations, and the Order of Canada — whose name often comes up when discussions of possible “dream producers” for David arise.

Would he be a good fit for David? Two SnowAngelz weigh in on both sides of the discussion:

David squared. (Credit: David-Daily.com)

David Foster FTW!

David Foster is a 60-year-old Canadian-born musician, songwriter, music producer who, for decades, has propelled many an artist to stardom.  As a songwriter and music producer, he is noted for discovering such singers as Celine Dion, Josh Groban and Michael Bublé, along with producing some of the most successful artists in the world (Barbra Streisand, Whitney Houston, Al Jarreau, Rod Stewart) in genres ranging from R&B to pop to classical to gospel to adult-contemporary.

Other highlights of Foster’s career include:

  • Movie song credits: Love Theme from St. Elmo’s Fire, I Have Nothing from The Body Guard,
  • TV appearances: Popstars, American Idol, Nashville Star, Princes of Malibu (reality TV show), Oprah
  • 1988 – Winter Games; Can You Feel It – Official theme song for the Calgary 1988 Winter Olympics

For David Archuleta to have the opportunity to work with someone of Foster’s vast experience could only be a positive thing, imo.  It would seem to me that Foster’s ability to be successful in writing for and producing such a variety of artists shows his instinct for identifying the core of an artist’s musical centre — what makes him/her tick. This leads to being able to provide the proper song/production in order to draw out the best from each artist. — Awestruck

DavidFosterandFriendsDavid Foster, not so much….

Don’t get  me wrong, I love David Foster. He’s a brilliant producer, talented songwriter, and a funny, charming, nice guy, from all accounts. And, hey, he is Canadian. I love that he produced the “Tears are Not Enough” record to raise funds for the Ethiopian famine, and I saw the documentary of the making of the record a bunch of times. (My favourite part is when he says to Neil Young. “Neil, could we do another take, I think you were a little flat.” And Neil replies, “Hey man, that’s my style.”)

That said, check out the names on this poster for his current “David Foster & Friends” tour. The youngest one there is Charice — yes, she’s younger than David, but her style makes her seem light years older. I can’t help but think Foster had a hand in grooming her in the old-fashioned Whitney/Mariah/Celine diva style, which the divas themselves have long since abandoned. I also remember, during A.I., watching a Good Morning America interview with Foster, where he speculated that David would never make it as a pop artist, only as a Grobanesque balladeer. That told me he didn’t “get” David’s potential at all. Could I be wrong? Could Foster be the ideal producer for David? Sure … when he’s 40.
— TOfan

So what do you think? Would an ArchuFoster project be magnificent? Or meh? And which CFTH songs would you most like to hear at Kaleidoscope??

P.S. Here’s a great CBC interview with Foster where he talks about his music, family and philanthropy:

Posted in Special event | Tagged , , , , | 84 Comments

Attitude of Gratitude

Posted on 11/11/2009 by TOfan

JenLeighThanksgiv

Credit: The über-talented jenleighbarry.

When the official announcement was made that David Archuleta would release a Christmas album this fall, many people — including fans — were surprised.

“It’s too early in his career,” warned some. “It’s a cash grab,” snarked others.

Most fans, however — including me — seemed thrilled at the prospect of a CD pairing David’s glorious voice with traditional Christmas songs. For us, it was a no-brainer — after all, David’s often mentioned how much he loves singing those songs. He even included a number of them as encores at last December’s Jingle Ball shows.

What did take me by surprise, though, was David’s recent response to a CNN reporter, explaining the timing of Christmas From the Heart:

“I feel like you have to take advantage of the opportunities that you are given at the time,” said David.” “I don’t know how long I will be in the position with music that I am. … I just felt like while people are enjoying what I am doing and recognizing the work I am doing, it probably is a good time to do it.”

So even after all the accolades, the hit CD, the sold-out solo tour,  and the Teen Choice and ALMA Awards, he’s still taking nothing, NOTHING for granted. It could all disappear tomorrow, he reminds himself, so make the most of today.

Make the most of today. This message hit especially close to home for me this week after some personal sadness led me to reflect on the blessings in my life – not the least of which is discovering David’s music.

Not that David’s Voice blinds me to the pain and suffering in the world – in fact, sometimes it intensifies my awareness of that pain — but as I continue to listen, I feel drawn into a wellspring of love and light that is often overpowering.

While listening to certain songs – Save the Day, Think of Me, Angels – I often have to hit pause so I can catch my breath as the convulsive sobs subside.

Maybe not the effect most pop stars are going for but then again, David Archuleta is not most pop stars.

CarpeDiem

Photo: jmahrer

Like all true artists, even his most “frivolous” efforts engage your full attention – never mere background, you are a participant … an active listener. Nowhere is this more evident than on CFTH. These are not carols to tinkle blithely off in the distance as you shop for stocking stuffers.

For What Child Is This, I need to sit and close my eyes as I become transported into the story. Riu Riu Chiu and Pat-a-Pan compel me to move and/or sing along – and Ave Maria … oh my … it requires my full and complete attention, not to mention a crate of tissues.

The prospect of David singing these songs live in 12 short days also fills me with gratitude. I don’t know why I’ve been given such a wondrous gift but I vow to treasure and share the sheer joy it brings as best I can.

In that same CNN interview, David was asked what sets CFTH apart from the multitudes of Christmas CDs already out there. This was his answer:

“I tried to give the music a reverence. We could have gone more radio friendly because I am in the more pop vein of music, but I wanted to make sure when people listened to it I got them thinking about what the songs were talking about. Whether it was through the vocals or the arrangement, I wanted people to connect with the songs emotionally.”

I think I’ll go make the most of today and listen again….

P.S. Wow, on this 1st anniversary of the debut CD release, check out this first vlog … where David thanks the fans (and mentions Canada at 2:45 🙂 ) …

… and then a look back at how much has happened in the past year in this Happy #DavidArchieVersary vid from musicis4David:

Posted in Fan experience | Tagged , , , , , | 49 Comments

Betcha Can’t Pick Just One!

Posted on 11/07/2009 by Kizzi

iStock_000010076241Medium

sun - Copy

David Archuleta’s fan base is as diverse as the global village itself. But there seem to be a few distinct categories developing. Which one (or two or three) best describe you?  Hard to decide?

Total Fangirl/Boy – Squees over every picture, word, event and song.  A feeler.  Totally into the sentiment of the music, the artistry, the celebrity, the moment.  Everything David is wonderful 24/7.  Knows all the websites to get up-to-the-minute info on all things David.  Attends as many VIPs, concerts, and national anthem gigs as possible. A mosh veteran.  A direct tweet from David is Nirvana. Has a hard-drive full of David photos and videos and screen caps.  Even voted in the “Favourite David Archuleta Poll” poll.

The Voice – Loves, loves, loves the Voice.  The Voice is front and centre in all comments and thoughts; gets lost in the voice when listening to songs.

785_Magic8BallThe Forecaster – Tries to see into the future of David’s career and predict what is going to happen down the road; bases speculation on personal past life experience. assumptions and opinions.  Magic 8 Ball optional.

The Interpreter – Gives opinions about past and present events; may use available facts and speculates on the who, what, when, where and/or why of past/present events based on past life experience, assumptions and opinions.  Has a future at the U.N.

The Spiritualist – Feels the Connection to The Infinite through David’s artistry.  Feels the joy when David sings.

flowerThe Giver – Gives more spontaneously in any aspect of life since becoming a David Fan.  May donate to various and new charitable efforts like never before since becoming a fan. Even telemarketers now get a warm “Hello!”

fire

The Tittle-Tattler – Main focus is the world of celebrity; likes celebrity media and gossip.  Likes the thrill of the drama of it all.  Loves to stir up controversy.  Sees all aspects of David’s life as topics for discussion since he is a Celebrity.  Wishes David had been adopted by Jon and Kate Plus Eight so his life could be a reality show.

The Defender – A cyberworld media watchdog. Routinely responds to any negative review or hint of criticism of David, either in online editorials, blogs, emails, letters, or comments, as if it were a personal slight.  “Nobody puts bb in a corner!”

tn_heart7The One: Dreams of being David’s soul mate 24/7.  Practices signing “<Insert First Name> Archuleta” during class.  An incurable romantic. Wonders what Danish/Honduran specialties to serve on The Big Day.  Has Target’s Bridal Registry on speed dial.

The Reporter – Just the facts; gives us straight information, no varnish, no spin. May upload pictures, videos of events and/or mp3s on the net for viewing.   Qualified to teach advanced cyber-detective training sessions for FBI, Scotland Yard or Interpol.

moonThe Parent – Feels very maternal/paternal.  Worries about what David eats, when he rests and, in general, his health and welfare.  Sends him warm hats, scarves and, occasionally, lunch money.

cloudThe What If-er – Always looks at the dark side of events first and foremost.  Worries about everything that might be or what currently is and why it shouldn’t be that way. Tends to see the glass as half-empty … or just empty.

Music Fan – Bought David’s music because they “liked/loved” the song. Buys different types of music and not involved in the day-to-day minutiae of the diehard David Fan.  Goes to David’s concerts just as they would any concert. This person is not likely here reading this.

— Kizzi

Posted in Fan experience | Tagged , | 43 Comments

Close encounters of the David kind

Posted on 11/03/2009 by none

img_0547Where do I begin? How do I find the words to describe these last few days? I’m not a prolific writer and I write pretty much the way I talk. I tend to ramble on and on if someone doesn’t stop me, except around David.  I am completely incoherent and either can’t say a word or I say something silly or off the wall,  as I did at the VIPs in Providence and AC, but I digress … See what I mean?

Like everyone else who had tickets for the originally scheduled shows, I was anxiously awaiting these shows. That is until the Christmas Tour was announced. Then I questioned whether I should go at all. Silly me!

You see, it’s not JUST about David anymore.  He is of course, the main reason we make all these travel plans months or weeks in advance, sometimes without a second thought.  He is our focus.

Our own meet & greet
But somewhere along the way, along with David, the socializing, the get-togethers, luncheons, dinners, the camaraderie with others who feel the same have become almost as important to us as our David.  Because of David we have forged great friendships, some of them long lasting, with wonderful people.

ManchesterOpenHand

Photo courtesy of our own Annie Leibovitz: djxox

I spent the last several days with three lovely ladies I met “in person” at David’s solo finale in Utah, SandyBeaches and Snow Angelz, TOfan and refnaf.  And I finally met “in person” so many others I had been looking forward to meeting for so long, so I could put faces to their words: happy, djxox, river, dawn, abrra, bebereader, marlie, Terry (from Tampa), Sunshine, Zoe, ninaf, conditioner, and so many others I had met at previous concerts.  It has become almost as exciting to meet with each other as it is to see David.  And I love it!

Providence is kind of a blur. I do recall before and during the VIP, I was a nervous wreck. You would have thought it was the first time I would be in HIS presence.  Sure enough, I became incoherent when it was my turn for the picture. He asked me where I was from as he had forgotten, and it seems I answered, turned and walked away as he supposedly was still talking to me. That’s what I was told. Abrra showed me video proof though, so I guess it’s true.  I didn’t mean to just walk away.  I just spaced out. We were allowed to take photos and video of the entire VIP, which was very cool.

Manchester Sneaks

..."sneaking" these in....

It’s show time
As for the concert itself, David exceeded my expectations.  He was on fire! It was worth the wait all these weeks. I knew I made the right decision to come to Providence and AC and regretted not going to Manchester as well.  I was very anxious for the AC concert.  TOfan, refnaf, SB and I flew out from Providence to Philly then drove to AC the following day.  It was Halloween and there was a party atmosphere in AC that night.  The four of us had dinner with KT, Lorna, John, Karin, Monica (starrynites), and Trish. It was a fun night! So many people “dressed up” and some were very interesting.

The day of the concert, we had brunch with KT, Lorna, and three ladies I have looked forward to meeting for a long time, bebereader, ninaf, and happy!!!  (If truth be told, meeting “happy” was one of the reasons I didn’t cancel my plans.)

Personal shopper
The VIP group was huge. Over 100 fans. It was held in a nice meeting room, nicer the than the previous VIPs I had attended, but again, no acoustic session. Instead we were herded (yep, like cattle) to the concert hall to hear David do his sound check. I was close to the end of the group and as we’re going in, I heard several fans tell David they like his T-shirt. He was up on stage looking fantastic. (See proof on the “sound check” videos).

As I got closer, I thought to myself, “Well, I’ll be &%#!” It’s a T-shirt I gave him! I knew it was a while ago, and I remembered it was in Albuquerque.  I bought it last minute when I was in Target the day before that concert. I liked the colours and smiley faces and I guess he liked it too.  Does he even realize how it makes us feel when he wears a shirt or scarf we pick out especially for him?  He certainly didn’t and couldn’t know I gave him that T-shirt. But it feels good anyway.

We were herded back to the meeting room for pictures.  I knew what I was going to say to him this time. I was determined to say something that made sense. As I was in line for the pics, a couple of people told me to let him know he’s wearing a shirt I gave him. I say oh no, I’m not going to do that!  My turn came up and of course all the “deep” thoughts I had, all the things I wanted to say to him just flew out the window.  I walked up to him, and I whispered “I like your shirt.”  He whispered back, “Thanks.” I asked quietly without moving my lips, “When did you get it?” He whispered back without moving his lips cause he’s trying to smile for the pic, “I don’t remember,” probably thinking what the heck is wrong with this woman? I just said “Oh.”

The picture was taken, and I turned to him and said, not whispering this time, “I’m so glad you made it here safely, but you really should have come with us on our flight!”  He chuckled and said, “I know!”  I’m sure he thinks there is something seriously wrong with me!  I don’t blame him in the least!  And I walked away embarrassed, thinking I wasted another opportunity to tell him how much I love and enjoy his Christmas From The Heart.

I had a great seat for the concert … dead centre, 10th row! He was beyond awesome. He was spectacular!  He is The Voice after all!  I could not take my eyes off  him.  He is so totally mesmerizing!  Sometimes I can’t believe I am there and he’s on stage. It’s almost a surreal feeling. Then it was over and I knew I would  “crash” in a few hours.  Coming down from the euphoric high after seeing David live on the stage larger than life is so hard, which is why we can’t wait for the next fix, the next concert.

ACmagnet

"SF must be out there ... I feel the pull of her magnetic force field!"

Fly the friendly skies … with David!
OK, so I guess I should explain my comment to him about “flying with us.” I get teased about being a “David magnet.” On the other hand, I KNOW it’s coincidence when David appears unexpectedly where I happen to be before or after some of his concerts.  I laugh at the comments, but when it keeps happening, it makes it hard to explain. (I really think it’s coincidence though, because it doesn’t happen at every concert.)

This time was very weird the way we had this passing encounter with David.  We got to the Providence airport and were checking in our luggage. I could not find my licence and the delay took about 10 minutes. Finally, the four of us got through security but at the end, as we waited for SB while security searched her “contraband,”  I got a tweet from David on my phone about how nice the security person was!   I KNEW he had to be coming through security. We looked over at the other line, saw Mike, then Kendra, and DAVID!! Then Ray.  We could not believe our eyes!

We all said hi to them. I think I said something like “fancy meeting you all here!”  We wished them Happy Halloween and we’ll see them in AC. I was totally focused on David, not quite believing we were looking at him!  We thought they may be on our flight. We were so excited, shaking and our hearts were beating a mile a minute on the inside! But on the outside, we acted cool, calm and collected!   TOfan, refnaf and SB thought it was my “David Magnet” at work. I think it’s coincidence. But there were the small delays and if we had not had those little delays, we never would have seen David.

We would have known he was in the airport somewhere from his tweet, but we never would have seen him in the flesh.  Turns out they took a much later flight and just happened to come to the airport very early at just the right time for our encounter. They were still on the tarmac when we were already in a car and on our way to AC.  That’s what I meant when I said they should have flown “with us.”

“David Magnet”? Nah! I would just say I have been very lucky!

Posted in Concert recap, Fan experience | Tagged , , , | 50 Comments

Tri-State Tour de force

Posted on 11/02/2009 by TOfan
SnowAngelzCrop

Sing it! (Photos: The eternally lovely djxox)

It’s exhausting being on tour with David Archuleta. Three shows in four days over three states leave me with barely enough energy to tap this keyboard … and I’m just a fan … I don’t know how he does it.

After initially being “Crushed” that these last three shows were rescheduled, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise as David returned to the stage sounding better than ever. Not only was his voice even deeper and richer than I remembered, but the love and energy of the Manchester and Providence crowds especially, fired up his performance engines to full throttle and he let loose with moves and riffs and power endings that made each show seem all too short.

Highlights for me were Manchester MH (chills, baby, chills) and SOT (tears, baby, tears), Providence TMH, ALTNOY and Crush (the 2.0 versions of these singles), and AC YEDL and Apologize (haunting … how perfect for Halloween).

In fact, just before singing Apologize, after the band had left the stage, David asked the audience how they’d enjoyed Halloween and if they had any interesting costumes to tell him about. “Really,” he said, strolling over to the edge of the stage as if we were in a rec room not a concert hall. “I’m curious.” Everyone in the front started to scream out costume names and he said, “Mandy Moore? You went as Mandy Moore?” (Turned out to be Candy Corn, lol.)

The impromptu “chat” came to an abrupt halt, unfortunately, when he heard a costume he didn’t feel comfortable sharing with the young crowd. (A Simon Cowell mask, maybe?)  “I don’t think that’s appropriate to say,” he said, moving back to the keyboard. Once there, he morphed from chatty teen to superstar before our very eyes as he delivered a soul-searing Apologize. No costume change needed for that transformation.

ManchOpenHand

A little too not over My Hands.

Whoah, Canada!
As wonderful as the concerts were, the most moving musical moment for me was hearing a snippet of O Canada (in the Providence VIP) … not only from David, but from a group of lovely David friends (including djxox, River, Abrra, Dawn, SF, and others). Refnaf, Sunshine, Conditioner and I went up for our group photo with David and asked him to hold a “SnowAngelz” sign. After the VIPers started singing the first bar and I told them they sounded pretty good, I couldn’t believe my ears when David started singing right beside me.

I can honestly say it’s the most beautiful sound I’ve ever heard. If my friends hadn’t been there to escort me out, the cleaning crew may have found me in the same spot the next morning … still smiling.

Stay tuned for more Tri-State Tour tales….

Posted in Concert recap, Fan experience | Tagged | 33 Comments