David Archuleta is LDS, and also is the 1st runner-up on American Idol (Season 7). When he was only 11 years old, he sang for Kelly Clarkson, the winner of the first season “American Idol”, and other contestants in Hollywood.
David was born on Dec. 28, 1990, to Jeff and Lupe Archuleta in North Miami, Florida. Jeff and Lupe were both very involved in music: Jeff, a jazz musician and Lupe, a singer. David’s parents raised him in a musical environment that obviously nurtured his talents.
The Archuleta family moved to Utah when David was 6. On the long ride, he watched a videotape of “Les Miserables” with his brother, and memorized the music. He enjoyed Broadway musicals, such as “Evita” and “Into the Woods”, and listened to Lupe’s Selena and Gloria Estefan albums. Little did he realize, but he would later be signed to 19 Recordings/Jive Records after his mesmerizing performances on American Idol.
Before American Idol, he auditioned for “Star Search”. David was on several episodes, and won the Junior category. When he was invited back the next year, his parents were concerned that he may have a medical condition that affected his voice. An ENT doctor diagnosed David with vocal paralysis. His options were given to him: surgery or vocal therapy. After intense vocal therapy, and a couple years of frustration and patience, their efforts worked. He could sing again.
He quit his job (which he was looking forward to) working at a local amphitheater in Murray, Utah, in order to audition for American Idol. Jeff, David’s father, took him to San Diego to audition. He won over fans and the judges with his humility, musicality, and vocal talent. He lost the title to David Cook, but has enjoyed an extremely successful first year of his professional career as a popular singer.
Three of David’s songs hit the Billboard Hot 100. His single, “Crush”, was number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
David recently finished touring around the world with Demi Lovato. He has completed a Christmas album, “Christmas From the Heart”, which is available on the website link below.
On June 1, 2010, David released his personal and musical memoir, Chords of Strength: A Memoir of Soul, Song and the Power of Perseverance. If anyone wonders how David musters the strength to be humble, gracious, and morally strong, David lays it all out in his memoir. David discusses the challenges to his faith and goodness in this account of his life thus far, and explains the deep spiritual well he draws from in order to live admirably.
David’s new single, “Something ‘Bout Love” will be released in July 2010.
