Cook Vs. Archuleta: A Closer Look at the 2008 American Idol Finalists

As the two American Idol finalists, David Cook and David Archuleta have proven to the masses they have talent. Each David can sing, but only one David can be the next American Idol. Which David has what it takes?

Vocal Ability

David Cook and David Archuleta both have excellent singing voices. Cook has a background of performing in rock bands; Archuleta is a talent show professional. But singing ability isn't the only factor when considering which is the better vocalist.

Every song Archuleta sings sounds the same. He's got a beautiful voice, there's no doubt about that, but Archuleta has such a small niche where he really sounds good. His voice is tear-jerkingly sweet when he's singing power ballads, but Archuleta loses something when doing those fast-paced songs. David Archuleta's voice is more suited to a church choir than rocking out on stage as the next American Idol.

David Cook has proven his versatility. With the music industry constantly changing, the next American Idol has to be flexible or he will bore the average listener. David Cook has that resiliency, which he displayed to America week after week on this season of American Idol. Cook was able to take each song, each musical genre, and make it his own.

Verdict: Although both Davids are talented, David Cook has the chops to be the next American Idol.

Stage Presence

Being comfortable on stage is important for the next American Idol. Both David Cook and David Archuleta have had time during this season of American Idol to get comfortable up on stage. But does one have an advantage over the other?

David Archuleta is a talent show veteran. He's performed on stage during several episodes of Star Search, so Archuleta is no stranger to being on television. For his young age, 17-year-old Archuleta is fairly relaxed on stage, albeit a little shy.

David Cook is very at home on stage. At 25 years old, Cook is older than Archuleta, and with age comes confidence. David Cook has never faltered; he owns the stage.

Verdict: Age has its advantage. David Cook edges David Archuleta for stage presence.

Physical Appeal

There has to be a hotness factor in choosing the next American Idol. People are naturally attracted to attractive people. Cute and charming sells records. Cook's age gave him an advantage in stage presence, but does Archuleta's age give him the edge in physical appeal?

I'll be honest. I didn't think David Cook was very handsome when I first saw him. First impressions are hard to get over. Cook has had help from a stylist upon reaching the Top 12, and his look has definitely improved.

Tweens, teens, mothers, and grandmothers love David Archuleta's cute little face. His smile has been called angelic. His innocence, the sparkle in his eyes, and the earnest look on his face all add to the appeal. Archuleta is like the boy next door who doesn't realize he's drop-dead gorgeous.

Verdict: David Archuleta wins this category hands down. There's a reason his fans call themselves 'Arch Angels'.

Record-Selling Potential

American Idol executives have to be concerned with record sales. The contestants themselves should be concerned with record sales. Record sales depend on the whole package. Who has more potential here, Cook or Archuleta?

David Cook has been involved in the music industry already. Cook recorded an EP with the band Midwest Kings in 2006, and he released a solo independent album in 2006. Cook's band from 1999 - 2006, Axium, has had limited success. One of Axium's songs was chosen by AMC Theatre Movie Tunes and played before previews. The "Got Milk" independent band contest named Axium in the top 15 independent bands in the country, and Axium was named the best band in Kansas City in 2004.

David Archuleta's religion may get in the way of record sales. As a Mormon, Archuleta may have already censored himself when singing the song 'Imagine' by John Lennon. It was reported by the Los Angeles Times that Archuleta did not sing the first verse because of the phrase 'no religion too'. Because of this apparent censorship, this will limit Archuleta's creative process and limit his record sale potential to the Christian population.

Verdict: David Cook is ambitious and has proven he knows how to market himself and his music. Cook definitely has more salability potential.

Career Longevity

It's impossible to accurately predict anyone's career longevity; it's a complete crap shoot. But based on past experience, which David has what it takes to stay in the business and hold America's attention?

David Archuleta has dedication to his craft. Despite a vocal cord injury, he still made it to American Idol, to the final round. His parents, especially his father who has been called a 'stage parent', really seem to support Archuleta's music career.

David Cook has first-hand knowledge about the music industry. He's been involved in music for 23 years, since the age of two. He's been on stage, he's versatile, he's a true musician.

Verdict: It's a draw. Both have what it takes to make it a long time in the music business.

Final Verdict

Based on all these catagories - vocal ability, stage presence, physical appeal, record-selling potential, and career longevity - David Cook is the clear winner. David Archuleta has a lot of hardcore fans, but Cook is a well-rounded musician who will make it huge in the music industry.

Sources

Ann Powers, "David Archuleta's 'Imagine' wasn't just imagined up", Los Angeles Times

"David Cook (Singer)", Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia

"David Archuleta", Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia

"David Archuleta's So-Called 'Stage Dad'?", Entertainment Tonight