Inspirational Theme Hurts David Archuleta's Performance on American Idol

Andrea Caruso
With this week's American Idol song theme being "inspirational songs" and David Archuleta's tendency to perform songs with either a religious or humanitarian theme, this was sure to be the week for him to shine.

Though the potential was there, David Archuleta's performance just met the standard that he usually lives up to. Yes, David Archuleta is amazing and talented beyond his years. Yes, his voice is normally flawless, and he's multitalented enough to play the piano and sing. Unfortunately, I think this week's theme ultimately hurt him.

What America really needs to see from David Archuleta is not another feel-good, inspirational song. We need to see another side of him so that he stays interesting. Having to choose an inspirational song this week kept him from breaking free of that mold. It was the same old thing, just a new week. Given David's talent, though, that's not necessarily a bad thing.

Another thing that I think will hold David Archuleta back this week is his song choice. He chose Robbie Williams "Angels" which was never really a hit in the United States. It's a beautiful song, and Archuleta sang it really, really well. Vocally and musically, he hit it out of the park tonight, and even Simon said he's sure to sail through to the next round.

There was also the expected sincerity to David Archuleta's performance today. He connected with the song, and connected with the audience, so it seemed like a genuine performance. In addition to that, the song sounded like one you would hear on the radio, so he remained modern, even if the theme didn't have any variance from what we've come to expect from him.

As David said in his interview video, he chose this song because it brings hope, making you feel like there's a light at the end of the tunnel. Fortunately, David doesn't need to worry about it this week - he's sure to remain in the American Idol competition for weeks to come.

Published by Andrea Caruso

I'm 30 years old, married 5 years, mom of a two year old girl. I'm a graduate of the University of Central Florida (Liberal Studies w/ concentrations in Computer Science, Art, and Psychology) and Full Sail U...  View profile

11 Comments

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  • Me4/14/2008

    While I agree it would be nice for David A. to do something upbeat, I highly doubt his rendition of Angels hurt him one bit. I was still looking forward to his performance and couldn't wait to buy it from iTunes - and I'm sure I'm not alone. Honestly, I bet his fans wouldn't mind one bit if he sang slower songs from here on out. We'll see what he pulls out of his sleeves in the upcoming weeks. Good write up and an interesting angle - I am curious to see how the season unfolds.

  • tara4/11/2008

    TO LA-Obviously you would know about idiots since you (an idiot) didn't read anything past the title. Or maybe it was just too many words for you? Have they not covered reading comprehension in 6th grade yet?

  • la4/11/2008

    just check her title "Inspirational Theme Hurts David Archuleta's Performance on American Idol"
    "she was very complimentary of David ..." I am gonna puke!
    "the most objective thing I've seen written about him. " LOL. only idiots would buy that!

  • tara4/10/2008

    Another Michael Buble?! I think it is a bit early to start comparing this kid to well-established, well-loved, successful stars. As the author tried to point out, he needs to show he can do something else besides ballads to keep things interesting. BTW, she was very complimentary of David and I don't get you wierdos who think she was not objective. It was probably the most objective thing I've seen written about him.

  • elle4/9/2008

    Dude, seriously find another job.

  • DA fan4/9/2008

    David Archuleta is the best...He is the most hated
    the most loved
    the most popular because he is the number one on IA
    last night he sang like an angel..

    Go David....

  • Susan4/9/2008

    I'm not worried about David. I voted for him last night and he'll be a star regardless of whether or not he wins Idol. He's the next generation's Michael Buble. I recently went to a Buble concert where he sang all old standards and was amazed at the "Michaelmania" in the audience. Females from young to old reacting like girls watching the Beatles in the 60's or women watching Tom Jones back then. In another 5 years, we'll be seeing Archu-mania! Good read. Go David! I'm also a David Cook fan and although the judges didn't like him last night, I still think he's a great talent and wouldn't be surprised if he shares the top 2.

  • rascal4/9/2008

    clueless.

  • Um4/9/2008

    Archuleta fans! Be careful!!

  • dino4/9/2008

    "What America really needs to see from David...." Sorry, please don't speak for me! It's YOU not "AMERICA"! He was the best of the night! The others sucked. Well, KLC did a decent job, but I still can't remember what she sang!

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