May 29, 2008, 06:00 AM | by Michael Slezak
Categories: 'American Idol', Idolatry
Idol's season 7 runner-up discusses his desire to make a debut album that's a little closer to Sarah Bareilles than, say, Dan Fogelberg, and also reveals his ongoing obsession with Billboard's international charts. Enjoy!
chuen Thu, May 14, 2009 at 06:11 AM EST
mel,David's cd is due out in Novemeber 2008. You can go to amazon.com and pre-order it now.http://shox.allofshoes.co.uk
joanie Tue, Sep 30, 2008 at 10:19 AM EST
OK, Michael Slezak, we know you're back from the jersey shore now, so schedule the interview already.
joanie Mon, Sep 22, 2008 at 04:45 PM EST
I would just like to see this interview pop up on the internet again like the two previous installlments. Come on, Michael Slezak, you need to do a new interview!!
joanie Mon, Sep 22, 2008 at 09:56 AM EST
I said it before and I'll say it again: Michael Slezak needs to do another interview with David Archuleta now that the tour is over. David Archuleta's music video hit #1 on itunes within the first 24 hours!
joanie Tue, Sep 16, 2008 at 11:20 AM EST
Fancy, you are right about this interview. I love it. And now, David's music video is available on itunes! It looked like Michael Slezak enjoyed interviewing David. I'm hoping for a new interview!
Fancy_ Tue, Sep 16, 2008 at 10:28 AM EST
I continue to love this interview. Remains David's best, proving he is an intelligent well-spoken FUN guy when asked appropriate questions and allowed to speak. (love another one)
joanie Sat, Aug 30, 2008 at 04:52 PM EST
mel,David's cd is due out in Novemeber 2008. You can go to amazon.com and pre-order it now.
joanie Sat, Aug 30, 2008 at 04:50 PM EST
mel, David's cd is due out on November 4th (but that's an approximate time). You can go to amazon.com and pre-order it for $9.99 right now.
mel Sat, Aug 30, 2008 at 12:34 PM EST
Does anyone know when his cd comes out? bEcause I want to know!!!
mel Sat, Aug 30, 2008 at 12:33 PM EST
Does anyone know when his cd comes out? bEcause I want to know!!!
joanie Thu, Aug 28, 2008 at 08:38 PM EST
Please, Michael Slezak, revisit David Archuleta's journey to stardom and do another interview!
joanie Sat, Aug 23, 2008 at 03:17 PM EST
Kathy, I completely agree with you about this interview! Love bothe David Archuleta and Michael Slezak in this video. Now, you should go back and look at parts 1 and 2 of this same interview. They are equally fantastic.
Kathy Sat, Aug 23, 2008 at 09:25 AM EST
Wow. This interview popped up in my David Archuleta search AGAIN. And David is so charming (and Michael so good at inteviewing) that I watched and enjoyed AGAIN. Thank you. Love that kid.
joanie Sun, Aug 17, 2008 at 03:31 PM EST
I love this interview so much that I feel compelled to comment on it again, in hopes that Michael Slezak actually reads these and schedules another interview with David Archuleta!
joanie Sat, Aug 16, 2008 at 02:48 PM EST
Oh, man, my keyboard has decided to write it's own comment. Anyway, I just watched this amazing interview again and I am blown away once again by both David Archuleta and Michael Slezak. It just shows what magic that respectful interviewing can elicit. Now that David's first single "Crush" has remained #1 on itunes for 5days I think everyone should check it out and buy it!
joanie Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 04:15 PM EST
Hey, JS: David has a new single out, "Crush" now! ...and, you can buy it on itunes, amazon.com, etc. Also, his full album will be out sometime in November. You can pre-order it on amazon.com now.
JS Fri, Aug 15, 2008 at 02:52 PM EST
I think David is going to be big. He is young and good looking with nice voice. I am just wondering when is he going to have a CD.
pane Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 05:34 PM EST
I'm dying to see how David's parents brother and sisters react to hear "Crush" the first time. I know that his dad, Mr. Jeff A. was with him at that moment. It must be a priceless time and he must be speechless. It brought tears to my eyes listening to "Crush" the first time. I was thinking about how Mr. Jeff A. accompanying David from the audition up to now. I admire him and I'm sure that the other children are also as good, as grounded, as polite, as well manner as David. The apple doesn't fall too far from the tree. May God bless David and this family. I wish that David will have a long, long successful life.
Pam Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 04:37 PM EST
David Archuleta has been ready for years. His voice is fantastic! I am a big fan. His song 'Crush' is number 1 and it shot to the number 1 in less than 24 hours! What is up with some people & this kid? Can't you hear? Are you tone deaf?
Annie Thu, Aug 14, 2008 at 09:39 AM EST
I see some jealousy on Michael Slezak!! HAHA David archuleta is so ready!!! he has the #1 song in itunes!!! DAvid Archuleta rocks and he has millions of fans that support him always and forever!!!
Fran Wed, Aug 13, 2008 at 05:02 PM EST
David is more than ready,his new song is terrific and his voice is amazing. He is a legend in the making. Kudos for Crush, David!
Sam Wed, Aug 13, 2008 at 03:18 PM EST
What planet are you from when you say David Archuleta is not ready for the public. Do you still in a cave in your town? For starts, he had more appearances, autograph sessions and standing ovations at the AI concert than others Idols. You can say all you want, but hey guess what at 17 he reached the No. 1 on his first day of CRUSH release. Archuleta is definitely ready for the public. The question to you is ARE YOU READY for Archuleta? And if not, WHO CARES the rest of his fans adore him and will support him. So stop being a mean and negative person. You are only showing you are retarded and not very well educated.
joanie Wed, Aug 13, 2008 at 01:10 PM EST
Pane, you were correct...David's first single "Crush" made it to #1 on itunes in just less than 19 hours! That sounds like a little bit of success to me.
joanie Tue, Aug 12, 2008 at 04:20 PM EST
Not ready for the public, Melissa? Are you kidding me.....the public is screaming for David Archuleta! and more David Archuleta...and more...and more
pane Mon, Aug 11, 2008 at 07:34 PM EST
I think David is more than ready. He is mature enough, the way he handled critics from Simon was amazed me. He is smart, graceful, well manner, polite, good looking, has a beautiful voice, all these things make him unique and one of a kind. he is nothing but a sweet, kind, grounded young teenager. Imagine how good he will be few years from now? His Single/CD/album will be a huge success!!!
archangel48 Mon, Aug 11, 2008 at 12:49 PM EST
Hey Melissa, He is 17 for goodness sakes! Really, his voice is more mature than his age. Open your mind...listen to his voice...I like that he is not your typical 17 year old. Wish there were more like him. Kids grow-up way too fast these days.
joanie Mon, Aug 11, 2008 at 12:17 PM EST
Michael, just read one of your previous articles about Blake Lewis. I'm sure you'll know which one I mean when I tell you that David Archuleta's birthday is coming up on December 28th. A nice birthday gift to all of us David Archuleta fans would be a new interview, by you, with David. I don't think you'll be complaining about his cd sales, however.haha.
Sam Sun, Aug 10, 2008 at 03:03 PM EST
David is even more incredible LIVE. Most artists sound great when recording, but LIVE they don't sound as good. David ARchuleta will be taking over not only the teen market soon but the adult fans as well and I am one of them (45 years old) He has captured so many new fans of all ages with his voice and that smile. All I can say was David Archuleta has a great career ahead of him. Who cares if he forgets the lyrics once in awhile, it happens to ALL artists anyway. Who even pays attention to those negative remarks. If you can't find something nice to say about David Archuleta, then don't be mean or show how jealous and envious you are. CRUSH is amazing. David Archuleta is AMAZING. This year we are so lucky to see two David's be so popular as new artists so quickly. Congratulations to both David's they have captured many of us with their talent and difference in their musical styles.
_Anne Sun, Aug 10, 2008 at 11:35 AM EST
Palm to Heart
Melissa, perhaps it's you who isn't ready for David. I understand that. David Archuleta brings excitemnet to music like no-one else does. Who would have thought to do "Think of Me" as club music. And, make it work. David does more with his one cord than others could ever do with two. He is the renewal of music. People will once again listen to music rather than bop to the beat. David is so ready to shake up the music industry. Whatever genre he places his song, look for him to revolutionize it with his vocal ability. Oh yeah! He's ready. He's more than ready. Reviewers know it! Writers know it! Producers know it! You know it, Melissa! Accept it! David James Archuleta has "IT". He is "IT".
CHANGE THE WORLD DAVID!
Palm to Heart
megan Sat, Aug 9, 2008 at 03:21 PM EST
David is amazing. I hope people will be openminded about David. Idol was a TV show. If you saw David now in concert you would not recognize him. He is confident and charming. His voice has gotten even better and he's grown so much. Mid Mafia just cut a song with him and they talked about how much fun it was to produce with him. Both Davids have got top notch people working with them and I predict big success for both.
Musicvoice Sat, Aug 9, 2008 at 11:14 AM EST
I love him he is so sweet and his new song is Number 1 on NY's largest radio Z100. He truly has the best voice I have ever heard on a 17 year old. SO sweet, humble and kind. Unlike most immature, crazy, obnoxious, rude and disrespectuful 17 year olds today. David is mature, and honest and kind. A voice of an angel. He truly is a role model for the insane 17 year old generation that I witness today. Imagine if more 17 year olds were like David. More kids would graduate, less 17 year olds would die behind the wheel from drunk driving and their would less teenage pregnancy. Hes a truly a pleasure to watch and listen to. I can only hope I can raise my sons to be the same. (Minus the singing) That your born with and David Archuleta certainly was born with it.
Melissa Sat, Aug 9, 2008 at 10:39 AM EST
I like David A, but seriously, I think he needs to take a few years and and get some training. I just don't think he's ready for the public yet. He's good, but not ready.
letafan4ever Sat, Aug 9, 2008 at 10:33 AM EST
these are still my favorite interviews of David Archuleta. You did a great job and David responded.
Love his new single and glad you can gave him support(only one zinger-not bad) Waiting on the world to change Ha! Glad you recognized the delightful person, we fans have seen all along.
Kait Sat, Aug 9, 2008 at 08:43 AM EST
Thanks for the heads-up about Melinda's album. She was a favorite, too.
Love this whole interview. I'm so glad I watched again. David is so 'real' -- he doesn't try to hide who he is. That means he draws criticisms from those who expect schmooze. It only makes me admire him more.
Thanks again, Slezak, for these interviews.
Sat, Aug 9, 2008 at 08:29 AM EST
Melinda Doolittle from season 6, will also released her album this fall!
joanie Thu, Aug 7, 2008 at 12:04 PM EST
Michael, I would be very interested to know if you got a chance (or took the chance) to see the AI tour. If so, will you review it for us? For some reason, I think a review by you would be intriguing. Thanks...it could be better than the Jersey shore.
joanie Thu, Aug 7, 2008 at 12:04 PM EST
Michael, I would be very interested to know if you got a chance (or took the chance) to see the AI tour. If so, will you review it for us? For some reason, I think a review by you would be intriguing. Thanks...it could be better than the Jersey shore.
eliza Wed, Aug 6, 2008 at 12:44 PM EST
Yeah Michael Slezak should do another interview but maybe after the AI tour is done. We'd love to hear about DAvid's experiences on the tour and the rest of his new life.
joanie Wed, Aug 6, 2008 at 11:05 AM EST
Loved this interview with David Archuleta. Michael Slezak managed, with respectful interviewing, to elicit a wonderful illumination of David Archuleta, the person and the artist. I would love to see a new interview between these two, now that it is apparent that David is on the road to a great career.
librado Mon, Jun 23, 2008 at 10:04 PM EST
I know little david's career will be shine as sun,he is our sun,our star, our sky, hes all for us,thanks little david,you have changed the whole world,now we are better with you.
Carrie Jane Thu, Jun 19, 2008 at 08:54 PM EST
David Archuleta made my heart melt when I heard him sing! There is something about him that makes him a truly great singer. I fell in love with the song "Imagine" when I heard him sing it!
He is original, and fantastic, and My Idol!!!
A friend and Fan,
K. Lind Tue, Jun 10, 2008 at 10:13 PM EST
After David Cook's victory, Slezak made comments on his video blog about how David Archuleta's whole life had been geared towards becoming a child star and that losing may have been the best thing to happen to him because he could finally get away from entertainment for a while. When I watched the blog, I did not know how Slezak would know what David's "whole life" had been geared toward. Had he interviewed David? His parents? His friends? Or had he simply repeated unsubstantiated rumours and innuendo spread by a source that has to date failed or refused to identify himself/herself. From what I have seen from interviews following Idol, it seems that David is a person who has been an "A" student, has lots of friends who genuinely like him, regularly attends church, doesd volunteer work and is respectful towards his parents. And he is incredibly talented singer. Having made the comments that he did, Slezak should now provide a clarification if not an apology to David.
Sat, Jun 7, 2008 at 01:00 PM EST
I have watched these interviews many times since they were posted and have been inspired and intrigued by David Archuleta. He has a warmth and charm that is lacking in so many performers today. He shows great respect for what he wants to do with his life. I love his enthusiasm and the joy he exudes. Mr. Slezack should be proud of this interview. It showcases what a wonderful personality David has. It certainly seemed like David was a "full" person- full of life, love, and happiness.
Sat, Jun 7, 2008 at 12:13 PM EST
J J-Unknowingly, David put to rest every Slezak criticism of him with this interview. It was fun to watch the 17 year old show up the person who I think made some stomach-churning, bitter comments this year.
J J Fri, Jun 6, 2008 at 09:28 PM EST
This interview shows David A's depth and wide interests of music. His analogy of fogetting the lyrics (think of me) is excellent and amusing. Slezak's obession of lyrics flubbing is shallow compared to David A's insight from a singer's perspective. "Music is not all about perfect technical stuff. It's about feeling you give in, where you are able to express yourself in the song." He is not "emptied inside". He is "full of passion and knowledge inside". He will last long in the business.
marylee Thu, Jun 5, 2008 at 04:37 PM EST
One last post from me ...I went back and viewed (for a second time) all three videos of the David Archuleta interview and realized that Michael's interview skills seemed to allow Archie to show his real personality. David does very well in an interview when he is relaxed and he seemed more relaxed during this interview than any other I have seen (and I believe I've seen them all). I was pleased to see that so many others were touched by his sincerity and charm as I have been since day one of this season. He had me at the "Heaven" audition! What a talent. Thanks to Michael for this extremely entertaining interview.
bfish53 Wed, Jun 4, 2008 at 07:31 PM EST
Michael Slezak, 2 rare things happened in AI season 7. A non-teen, non-grandma became a David Archuleta enthusiast (I am still trying to put into words why, but I am hooked. It could be that his sincerity is a breath of fresh air and his music (so far) is completely appropriate contemporary music for my toddler/pre K kids: unlike High School Musical, which too many kids under 6 already sing from memory). Secondly, I, a David Archuleta fan, became a huge fan of Michael Slezak and ew.com producers. Well done all season with thoroughly entertaining commentary on the season. You had me at your keen observation of Kristy Lee Cook's sparkly tops with ripped jeans.. I log onto ew.com every day now. Whoo-hoo!!
marylee Wed, Jun 4, 2008 at 02:48 PM EST
I DIDN'T SEE MICHAEL SLEZAK SMILE MUCH DURING THIS INTERVIEW...BUT HOW COULD ANYONE NOT LIKE DAVID ARCHULETA??
Buh! Tue, Jun 3, 2008 at 04:31 PM EST
I had been a Slezak fan since last yr because I found his opinion in the recaps so on point and funny. But this season recaps from Slezak were so negative David Archuleta that I found myself not reading them or skipping over the paragraph about David A. He always found a way to criticize him even when he had done a great job - it almost seemed personal. I think David A is genuine ... he won me from day one. I think he might have won Slezak now (when it's all over). buh!
Eliza Mon, Jun 2, 2008 at 06:09 PM EST
Great interview finally you asked the right questions and made David A. so relax that he’s able to express and be himself. Thanks!
Rachel Mon, Jun 2, 2008 at 12:39 PM EST
These were by far my favorite interviews of David A! Great job! Like many others I am also interested in hearing Michael's opinion of David A. now that he has had a chance to meet and talk to him. Let us know, Michael!!
daisy Mon, Jun 2, 2008 at 09:27 AM EST
go archie go!everybody loves you, and thats more than winning!!!!!
sparkle5 Mon, Jun 2, 2008 at 02:58 AM EST
Check out this vid of David singing be still my soul. http://www.you tube.com/watch? v=f_ZimguGSrA
(remove the spaces)
Joel Sun, Jun 1, 2008 at 06:18 PM EST
The three interviews were excellent - the best I've seen of DA. Though I'm a big fan of David, I was unaware of Michael Slezak's writings about him, but obviously many Archie fans were offended by them. I don't think anyone has pointed out that it takes some courage for Slezak to post all these comments mostly negative and some scathing, about him. Anyway, like many others I would like to read Slezak's reaction to his interviews.
vermeer Sun, Jun 1, 2008 at 05:40 PM EST
Michael Slezak, since I haven't really seen anyone bring this up, I want you to know in one of the interviews with Carly Smithson, she mentioned that during the Andrew Lloyd Weber week, all the contestants were laughing backstage after they were all done singing because every single one of them had flubbed their lyrics. I thought you might find this interesting. It's silly that you've been harping on David Archuleta's lyrics flubbing as if it was something so worthy of calling out. Please ask Carly or the other contestants who were part of the ALW night about it, I dare you.
Barbara Sun, Jun 1, 2008 at 05:39 PM EST
Excellent interview as always Michael Slezek!!!! I have watched all of your interviews with the top three and you are able to get to a greater level of depth with them, and focus on the music and experience of being on idol...much more so than other interviews I have seen, and it is clear they were open and comfortable with you. I am a Cook fan and voted often and heavily, but this interview truly showed a side to David Archuleta I hadn't seen before (I knew he was sweet) and I found him to be so authentic, charming, and cooler than I had originally thought. I was wrong in previous posts, I will buy his music now that I have seen this wonderful interview. Way to go on the David Cook and Syesha Mercado interviews as well, and despite what some posters are writing here, I do not think you need to apologize to DA...we all have our own taste in music. I'll buy David Archuleta's CD because he has a power voice and is sweet as pie, but I'll but David Cook because, simply, I'm in love. :-)
Vicki Sun, Jun 1, 2008 at 02:29 PM EST
How did Michael Slezak feel when confronting with David Archuleta who he had given harsh critism before?
David Archuleta is the best contestant on AI that I've known. I love his voice, personality and his look! The interview was interesting and funny. David A is so cute, innocent but very smart also.
Alex Sun, Jun 1, 2008 at 03:10 AM EST
I really appreciate Michael Slezak's efforts to do such a great interview with David. While I also felt that some of his earlier comments (and those of some of the other ew writers as well) were excessively harsh and mean spirited, I really believe Slezak has at least put aside some of his own preconceptions here and was professional and did a great interview. He obviously made David feel very comfortable and the end result is one of the most insightful exchanges we've seen with David.
heavyblow Sat, May 31, 2008 at 12:23 PM EST
Slezak doesn't *have* to apologize to David, unless he wants to repent for himself. David probably never paid any minds over Slezak. Probably doesn't know who he is and what stuff he wrote about him. And if he will, he'll probably just shrug and say: "oh well, that's too bad".
Don't know why Slezak is so obsessed over the lyrics flub. The judges didn't call him on it probably b/c they didn't notice it. I didn't until I heard the performance for the third time and mostly b/c people were talking about it and I was looking for it. Certainly, people noticed it right away, but that doesn't mean that everyone else will and thus gave Archie a pass. Furthermore, Archie gave a good answer: sometimes it's an overall feeling of the performance that's important, as opposed to the little nit-picky technical glitches here or there. Obviously an anti-fan like Slezak liked to nit-pick over inconsequential stuff, especially when it wasn't even that obviousl.
Kate Sat, May 31, 2008 at 09:10 AM EST
I just ordered a cool David Archuleta shirt from www.PantherTees.com. They said not to tell anyone, but here is a 10% discount code, pts10 (it is case sensitive, so copy and paste it). Enjoy!
JohnnyBoy Fri, May 30, 2008 at 11:17 PM EST
READ THIS:
David just schooled Slezak on music. Slezak has been obsessed with the fact that DA had a minor lyrical miss on Think of Me and David answered the question perfectly. I am so impressed with this guy.
Sorry to have to point out the obvious, but a few weeks ago, Slezak called David "empty inside". Everyone, watch this three part interview and tell me whether it is Slezak or David who has the excitement, optimism, love of life and music, and sparkle in the eyes. On the other hand, who seems "empty inside". I can't get over the delicious irony of it all.
Kevin Fri, May 30, 2008 at 08:56 PM EST
Michael, If conducting what I would have to say is by far to date the best interview I have seen of David, and I've seen them all I believe, is your way to apologize for what I know you now realize was an extreme miscarriage of justice in your treatment of him this season, then I suppose I can accept it and forgive you somewhat. I think for full forgiveness I would need to see more niceness toward David. No one is more deserving. Very nice job Michael.
Jeremy Fri, May 30, 2008 at 08:49 PM EST
Great interview. I think Archie was well spoken and humorous. Good job getting him to feel relaxed. His answers where heart felt and honest! What a great young man.
Jeremy Fri, May 30, 2008 at 08:49 PM EST
Great interview. I think Archie was well spoken and humorous. Good job getting him to feel relaxed. His answers where heart felt and honest! What a great young man.
notween Fri, May 30, 2008 at 08:47 PM EST
I agree with the other posters. Sleazak...you got a great interview with Archie and you owe him an apology for many of the things you wrote about him during the season. To be honest, I was shocked that he even agreed to an interview with you but maybe he had not choice as a result of whatever agreement he has with AI. The maturity in which he handled this interview showed that at 17 he is already the bigger man. Maybe you will have the opportunity for this apology if you write an Idol season summary. David will become a legend in music...I suspected this to be the case when he sang Heaven during Hollywood week and knew it to be so when he sang Imagine. I wonder if he will grant you an interview when his mantel is full of Grammys.
Lisa Fri, May 30, 2008 at 06:50 PM EST
Michael, You are the best at getting good interviews! I've watched a number of interviews of my favorite contestants, and you get more of the personality to show than anyone! I especially enjoyed your conversations with Jason Castro and David A. Both are rather self-conscious in interviews, but you got them to relax and express themselves. Fantastic!
Slezak Fan Fri, May 30, 2008 at 03:55 PM EST
There is no question that Slezak and his colleagues are very gifted and talented journalists. I watched all of the idolatry segments from this season and usually found them to be clever and insightful. I must admit, however, that I sometimes found the commentary to be inconsistent, gratuitously provocative and, on occasion, unnecessarily mean-spirited. Perhaps Slezak’s passion for the show is both his greatest strength and weakness. On the positive side, being such a long-time and committed fan of American Idol enabled him to conduct extraordinary interviews with the finalists this week. Conversely, it was apparent that, like most rank-and-file fans this season, Slezak became very invested in certain contestants and his loyalty and predisposition for certain contestants and musical styles too often contaminated his objectivity during the course of the show. Slezak has been very critical of the judges for showing favoritism this season. How ironic?
Fri, May 30, 2008 at 02:40 PM EST
he seems so much more relaxed after AI... and he's pretty funny too. i love how he acknowledged his whole "rainbows and puppies" image
Maria Fri, May 30, 2008 at 01:20 PM EST
There's no reason in the world to hate on Archuleta. He's been a nice kid all season and was very gracious about losing. Considering he's the most talented in the bunch, I think that makes him an extremely nice kid.
notsofast Fri, May 30, 2008 at 01:09 PM EST
I think that a lot of Archie supporters are upset with Slezak because he made a point of attacking Archie PERSONALLY so often. It's not Archie's fault that the producers pimped him early and so much. Attacking someone's singing ability or stage presence or whatever is fine, but attacking them personally when you don't even know them is pretty low. Archie showed us just how to handle people who treat us unfairly--even rudely: shower them with kindness. The kid is mature, a great singer, and seems to genuinely be a nice guy. Good luck to him; he's got a long, successful career ahead of him.
Hye Fri, May 30, 2008 at 01:05 PM EST
The final day I thought Archie already won by judges, so I didn't vote much. Most people did like me. This is just a begining for Archie to the road toward his long life. I will watch him how he developes his career!
I will support Archie.. Fri, May 30, 2008 at 12:44 PM EST
that night I only voted for Archie
2 hours and a half. I feel bad because I could have voted the four hours but my mom was telling me "it's late it's time to sleep"
if most of the Archies would have voted the full 4 hours maybe Archie would win..When I saw the web Zaba at 10 PM Archie was leading the votes, and then I went to bed happy, thinking that Archie would win the next day...I'm still sad because
Archie should have won..He didn't get the most votes in the finals, but he led the votes most in the season..He is my winner!
DavidCDavidA Fri, May 30, 2008 at 10:49 AM EST
Just gotta say it again - I love this kid!! David Cook was my choice in the end, but it was the toughest Idol choice I've ever made, and in my eyes, they are both winners!! I'm sure I'm not the only person in the world who follows more than one artist. Lots of them this season, however! Jason, Brooke, Carly, MJ, Chikezie too. We are such nerds that we have tickets for the tour - me and hubby in our 40's and teenage kids who actually won't be embarassed to be seen with us at a concert because they loved so many contestants this year. Every week, they'd all watch the show with me - would schedule their time around the show too. Anyway - I love this kid!! He portrays himself to be a sweet, happy, talented (gifted!) young man who is magically voiced and magically unaffected by all this hype about him. I hope and pray he stays unscathed by that nasty business, however.....
Tom Fri, May 30, 2008 at 10:16 AM EST
Let's put the 12 million votes out of 97.5 million in context. I text voted for Archie over 4000 times on the finale show. If only 3000 other Archie fans had voted like me that would have been 12 million votes! So it's not a lot more people voting for Cook, it's a smaller amount of people putting in large amounts of votes. My point is that the fan base between the two is not as large as it made it seem. They are both great and more importantly, they really do like each other. To bad their fans can't get along and show each other the respect they deserve.
Maylynn Fri, May 30, 2008 at 08:11 AM EST
Wow. Love part 3 of the interview. Time has passed since the finale, the NYC appearances are finished, and I'm really going to be missing this kid. He lights up the TV screen with presence; lights up my life with his voice. Hope when his CD comes out they also do a music vid. I'm no cougar, really, but the kid is pleasant to look at. And he's only gonna get better, folks. I'm thrilled for him.
Lindy Fri, May 30, 2008 at 07:41 AM EST
Great interview! I really enjoyed listening to David A. express himself about his music and song choice. I'm and "older" lady, and the "Idols" remind me of the Frankie Avalon, Fabian, Neal Sedaka, and Paul Anka era of the 60s. David kind of reminds me of someone like Paul Anka who started out in his early teens and wrote and sang Archie's type of music and ended up writing for Frank Sinatra and appearing in Las Vegas. That's the kind of music that endures over time. Check out some of Paul Anka's hits -- and Neal Sedaka's, who is also still involved in the music scene.
sam Fri, May 30, 2008 at 06:53 AM EST
And Cook fans are all ages, so a lot of his votes came from young people also.
sam Fri, May 30, 2008 at 06:51 AM EST
Actually, Nigel has said that he knew that Cook had won by 10 p.m. Eastern Standard time, so no, the extra two hours apparently didn't change anything. After all the difference was 12 million votes!
Nancy Fri, May 30, 2008 at 03:28 AM EST
I still say it was the late hours left open to vote that helped Cook win. I'll bet if they check the votes from between 9 and 11, Dave A won..... His fans were not the type of people to be up until 1 in the morning. I voted until 11:30 and then fell asleep, as did probably most of his followers. Plus the young people had school the next day, and they do listen and buy music, so they should count.
Mel Fri, May 30, 2008 at 01:24 AM EST
The obsession with the flubbed lyrics was, to me, the most ridiculous part of the interview. (The rest I enjoyed tremendously b/c Archie was charming in spite of his unpleasant company). I guess it makes it easier to ignore the raw talent Archie has when you focus on this aspect of his Idol journey (never mind that the other Idol contestants have had similar flubs and were not called out on them). Props to Archie for carrying himself with dignity and sincerity... he's a great example to all of us. I hope Archie rubbed off on you, Slezak.
Slezakfan Fri, May 30, 2008 at 01:05 AM EST
Quit the whining people & get over it!!!! I love Michael Slezak & have looked forward to reading his AI recaps & watching the Idolatry videos....probably as much as watching AI. All his interviews have shown the contestants in a favorable light & were a lot more personable than what AI presented to the viewers. Look Archie fans, we all have our favorites. Mine happen to be Jason, Carly & DC. That doesn't mean I didn't like the other contestants. I think the tour will be a great learning experience & hopefully, they will all grow & learn from each other. The Music Industry is tough & in order to succeed you'd better be able to take the criticism that's being printed out there & either ignore it or learn from it. Archie has a great voice & is probably the nicest person in the world, but so was Melinda Doolittle. We all know that in the end it all boils down to what the DJ's are going to play on the radio. Goodnight!
bfish53 Thu, May 29, 2008 at 11:51 PM EST
Michael, thank you for these interviews. Like I said before, being a real fan of the show, you ask the questions that all of us are curious about. Regarding David's interviewing skills, I think during the competition the questions were irrelevant to what he was going through or they were just trite (when compared to the Michael's this becomes obvious). I think that at 17, he didn't realize that most of the questions he was asked during the competition were trite questions and that he could respond in kind with trite responses. So, I really think he struggled trying to respond meaningfully to less than meaningful questions. I hope he maintains this earnestness as he navigates the music industry (and, on the way, also discovers that he has some 'out of balance' fans). Of course I, at 37, am adding a comment to a now archived ew video at almost midnight, maybe I should just be quiet about his fans..
China Thu, May 29, 2008 at 11:28 PM EST
This proves how much talent this young man has at 17 years of age. Even forgetting a line or two did not not stop him from delivery a powerful performance. Like Seacrest said on Larry King Live (when David Archuleta is on stage he is a master at his craft, a powerhouse). He does not just sing, he tells a story and makes you feel every word he is singing. And THAT my friends not everyone has the ability to do. He is a musical prodigy (per Mr, Webber). He has already been projected to be the next John Mayer. I strongly believe because of David Archuleta the American Idol CDs will be out sooner than previous seasons. People like myself can't wait to get their hands on his 1st CD. So lets all sit back and enjoy this nice, humble, gracious, talented young man's AMAZING voice.
Blue Thu, May 29, 2008 at 11:11 PM EST
Great interview!! I just love this kid!! It is great to see him spread his wings! Good job Michael. You gave America an opportunity to see the real Archie. He is talented and adorable!
lauralu Thu, May 29, 2008 at 10:50 PM EST
I saw some interview with Simon Cowell where he said something like, you should hope Cook wins, because interviewing Archuleta will be like pulling teeth...I thought he was spot on, but boy, am I surprised today. I wasn't an Archie fan but he garnered my sympathy for his apparent misery all season - I'm so glad to see/hear him happy and well-adjusted and complicated like a normal person. This interview is a cringe-inducing reminder that there's no such thing as reality on TV, even on a so-called reality show.
rascal Thu, May 29, 2008 at 10:27 PM EST
It's gratifying (I guess) to see all the haters come around to our way of seeing Archie, but those of us who did see him for who he is right away are not in the least bit surprised by this interview. Yes, he has developed a somewhat more polished approach to these things (without losing any of his sincerity), but to us, this is "just David." As for the the other guy, I don't think there is enough therapy in the world. Shame on EW for giving this pathetic bully a pulpit. And what exactly is your g-d obsession with Archie's flubbed lyrics? I swear you mention it so often I imagine you saying it to the coffee vendor in the morning: "Yes, the usual, please. And you know that Archuleta flubbed his lyrics, right?" Is that the extent of your musical knowledge? Is that the most you have to offer the world in the way of a review of 12 weeks of painstaking work and talent and effort? Never mind the fact that two other finalists flubbed lyrics--or forgot them altogether--let's just attack Archie.
Alilynn Thu, May 29, 2008 at 10:09 PM EST
I have enjoyed Idolatry so much this season and I'll really miss it. You all deserve a break for all the hard work that you put into producing 3-4 funny, insightful, and always entertaining videos per week. The interviews with David Archuleta (my favorite performer this season) were a treat to view. I appreciate getting an opportunity to see sides of him that I didn't see during the show. I love the quality of his voice and look forward to downloading his record when it comes out.
erica Thu, May 29, 2008 at 10:05 PM EST
My, My I love this fella..David Archuleta ....this 3 part interview is the BEST ever !!! I am so impressed with this guy. He is just completely lovable!! I am a HUGE fan...but gosh can he be any more adorable.?I am so thrilled to see him talking so openly ..he is so amazingly talented, humble and gracious. MY heavens it is too much...... I will not comment on Slezak....it was a great interview and I thank him for that, I was less than pleased with your depiction of my boy all season but I am so thankful for this wonderful interview. Come on Michael you felt the love....how hot is Archie...please !!!!!!
Archie is my champ! Thu, May 29, 2008 at 09:04 PM EST
I love Archie. he is the American idol of my heart. I cant wait to buy his album. He is so cute!
alyse Thu, May 29, 2008 at 07:45 PM EST
great interview. and i have been a MAJOR archuleta fan all season & it's only gotten more intense since the season stopped & the withdrawal symptoms began. i did not appreciate your archie-bashing before but i will agree that he never came off as this articulate. he's always been humble & sweet but you can definitely see his smarts/personality shine through now that the pressure off. the "magic rainbow" joke really humanizes him, in the sense that he can grasp the concept of how he's pegged & why people would think that, & laugh at himself. people who can do that -- laugh at themselves & keep a positive attitude -- are role models for people of all ages. this kid will be around for a long, long time & will change lives. i really do believe that.
as for you Sleezak, i realize you were just doing your job & trying to turn heads. now that your recaps are over - you should just admit that you were wrong about archey:) don't let a 17 yr old be the bigger man!
Sam Lim Thu, May 29, 2008 at 07:07 PM EST
Slezak, even though you where not fair with Archie in an earlier season I will still give you a credit for doing a good interview. Archie is so professional and answer the question so well.. Good Job, Slezak.
smanda Thu, May 29, 2008 at 05:36 PM EST
I just want to add one more thing. TO those of you who are passionately defending Slezak, there is a lesson to be learned here. What goes around, comes around. He went out of his way to bash Archie. Why would anyone expect that it wouldn't then become his turn to be bashed?
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