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Doug Robinson: Many sing praises of Archuleta

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Jose | 2:22 a.m. May 6, 2008
I felt the same way. I have a medical problem with no means to deal with it financially. I will know soon if I have cancer. I cried when I heard David sang Imagine but gave me a feeling of Hope and Support.
goboywonder | 2:23 a.m. May 6, 2008
David is indeed rare in the world that thinks something is wrong with a person who is not foul-mouth, disrepectful and crass. Those who see the beauty in David still believe that there is some good in the world and it's worth fighting (voting) for.

David stay true to who you are. That's what made us all fall in love with you.
Anonymous | 3:02 a.m. May 6, 2008
This is great, because David truly wanted to sing a message and was chided for it a bit on American Idol, but he has still managed to come through with that message of wanting all mankind to unite. All races, all people. He has charmed the socks off of people from many countries...this little David with the giant soul and what a smile! and his God given talent is the vehicle for his message.
Comments continue below
Kathy | 4:15 a.m. May 6, 2008
That is so amazing. I've been touched by David's singing and personality, too. I wish they have that book reprinted so I could get a copy. I'm a career woman who lives in the Philippines and I've never been drawn to a tv personality like this. He's a gem of a person. He's the perfect American Idol.
kim | 4:45 a.m. May 6, 2008
it brings tears to my eyes.
Charles Mason | 6:45 a.m. May 6, 2008
Wow, I agree. This young man is such an example for all of our youth. He is a breath of fresh air. We are indeed blessed to have him amongst us. His voice is so pure, so unique.

Thanks David for lifting us up when we are often down and out. You truly are what we think of as an American Idol.
Sharon | 7:09 a.m. May 6, 2008
David A has a wonderful voice. I like him but my favorite is Jason Castro who has also moved people with his song. My mother is in the final stages of cancer and Jason's Over The Rainbow sooths her and brings her joy. There is so much good music can do for people when it is sung from the heart. I have hoped for a long time it would be a JC-DA finale. These two are my favorites and I think they both are humble, sweet, god loving and talented.
ed | 7:17 a.m. May 6, 2008
They could call the Book Chicken Soup from David Archuleta's Soul.
Jackie | 7:32 a.m. May 6, 2008
I to have been moved by David's voice. My children have been inspired by his actions. His voice made me a fan and for the first time I to joined the American Idol's online chat where this book started. His voice not only takes me outside myself but his personality reminds me and my children that in order for the world to be a better place it begins with us. One person can make a difference, one kind action, one moment of compassion. David is a rising star who personifies and exudes all the gentleness and kindness that sometimes lacks today. He will have my vote today on American Idol and support all throughout his career. I wish him nothing but the best of luck!
Anonymous | 7:34 a.m. May 6, 2008
I submitted a story for this book, and I must tell you that David is a bright light in this dark world. So many people have been waiting so long for David to come along and bring hope and joy to our often dark and dreary lives. Thank you David for being who you are and for being a hero and an inspiration to so many!!!
jane | 7:36 a.m. May 6, 2008
i am 33 yrs old and i am 10 yrs married with 2 kids...with my 10 yrs in marriage, i am bored. i feel incomplete. but when i started to see david archuleta in american idol,i feel happy. everytime he sings, he made my life complete. i have his photo on my desktop background and more pics on my documents. if i feel sad and depressed, i just open and see his pics and i am delighted to see his smiles and to hear his songs.:)
hope he'll be the next american idol.
vote for him america...(i am from the philippines so i can't cast my votes)
Ed | 7:36 a.m. May 6, 2008
I have never watched American Idol before, until last week. I watched it because I did a google search on David after reading an article about him in the Deseret News. When I heard him sing, I cried. I am a 45 year old man. It connected me with goodness and hope and innocense. I had my kids come and listen to him. He can inspire through music like I have never heard before.
Anonymous | 7:52 a.m. May 6, 2008
I am so glad that somebody had finally written about what David really is. Reading those negative comments, mostly lies, others making mock of him for what he is, was pretty much disgusting. The kid has a good heart and he reflects it everytime he sings. As the article says, hard to believe that and however, people follows others with crazy lives and practically adore them. Even though he's so young, he's an example to many.
arch4dwin | 7:56 a.m. May 6, 2008
David Archuleta did not just touch my heart but my soul. for the first time ever, I followed American Idol only because he's there. I strongly feel that he deserves this opportunity above anyone else. David, you bring joy to us everytime you sing. Remeber that no matter what, we will support you!
glaiza | 8:01 a.m. May 6, 2008
like all his fans here and all over the globe, david moved me, not only with his voice but with his over-all personality. ive never known a person so close to perfect before and yet, he's so humble and grounded. he's a perfect role model for teens and even for grown ups. he deserves to be the next american idol, hands down!
Amanda | 8:02 a.m. May 6, 2008
I am so happy with this article and so happy that I was a part of the "David is my Hero". I struggled with my letter for days but Linha helped pushed me through it and I'm so glad that I did! I'm so excited that she gets to hand give him the book! She definitely deserves it! THanks for the article! DA FTW!!
Katie | 8:08 a.m. May 6, 2008
I just want to say...from the time I first heard David Archuleta sing till right now - I am a COMPLETELY different person. I have never been happier. David gave me a reason to SMILE and make my life better! I have never been happier because of the changes i've made in my life and David was my inspiration. I am so grateful. He deserves to win. He will ALWAYS be my American Idol.
car | 8:10 a.m. May 6, 2008
David Archuleta will change the world with his amazing voice and enormous heart. We, his fans, believe him; believe *in* him, and will follow his career for many years to come!
Amy | 8:12 a.m. May 6, 2008
David has a rare musicality and his voice interprets the song, the message, in a new way that connects across all ages--he has a brand new sound the invites us in to share, to enjoy, and we have a unique experience--like having endorphins released into our brain after running.

He is resolute and courageous young man and has run the gauntlet of the entertainment media after being declared a front runner with poise and grace.
elle | 8:33 a.m. May 6, 2008
Thanks for this article. What a wonderful example and a true model of an AMERICAN IDOL David is. With so many drug-crazed, sex-saturated teen stars, David should give everyone, young and old, hope that goodness values can still exist and thrive

It is a sad commentary on America when some reporters, judges and critics allow their cynicism about life to carry over into falsely slamming a guileless and good young teenage boy. Pure goodness always stirs up opposition. I hope David keeps singing and inspiring for a long, long time!
Kait | 8:50 a.m. May 6, 2008
I am so pleased that these stories will get to David. I don't know him, but through the show I feel as if I do, and his character traits are both remarkable and rare. Regardless of the outcome of the show, he has an incredibly bright future ahead of him. I know I'm a lifelong fan of both the voice and the person.
Andrea | 8:55 a.m. May 6, 2008
Never have I been moved by an American Idol contestant, David Archuleta is was given a gift from above and he has personally changed my outlook on life and helped me through some personal challenges. He is what an truly an World Idol in my opinion!!
Non-believer | 8:58 a.m. May 6, 2008
Oh please. You people need to get a life. He is a gifted young man with a nice voice but he does not have spiritual powers. Find out about his father who is banned from being backstage because of his (his father) behavior.

Read what some of you have written. You people are off the wall with some of your comments.If you need spiritual enrichment then go to Church or the Temple (if you are Mormon) and get a spiritual uplift from the real source.
Paul | 8:57 a.m. May 6, 2008
This article made me cry. Then my son came into my office and caught me crying. How embarrassing. Oh well, who cares. David Archuleta is amazing. I consider myself fortunate that there is someone in this world so special that he can have this kind of an impact on me and so many countless others. Vote with dialidol.com to multiply your votes by 300x. Its free.
DavidfortheWIN!! | 9:23 a.m. May 6, 2008
Ignore the non-believer.

David is a great great singer!! I can't wait to buy his first CD!!!
Las Vegas Katbacker | 9:27 a.m. May 6, 2008
To non-believer:

I get what you say, but be careful about treading on people's emotions. They are sharing personal experiences that strongly impacted them in a positive way. You really shouldn't give them grief over that.
Re: Non Bielever | 9:48 a.m. May 6, 2008
He is not responsible for his fathers behavior. Spiritual enrichment comes in many forms....one of which is music. If his vocal talent gives people a spiritual uplifting, then that's a good thing right? I'd rather have a life as a believer than one of a non believer......and I've lived both.
JR | 9:49 a.m. May 6, 2008
He is a wonderful young man and a great role model. His parents must be doing something right, I say.
I am a Believer! | 9:56 a.m. May 6, 2008
David Archuleta's voice connects directly to my soul! I feeds it with joy, peace and happiness! I can't wipe the smile off my face!
Kinda creepy and cool... | 9:58 a.m. May 6, 2008
American Idol is the last thing I'd turn to for emotional/spiritual/temporal help or relief. But keep up the singing, David.
Troy | 10:00 a.m. May 6, 2008
Non-believer:
I have to say that I think you are missing the point. These people have been touched by David's music. I've never listened to David Archuleta sing, but I do know the influence that music can have in someone's life, and if David Archuleta's music has inspired even one person, let alone thousands, then I say 'kudos' to him. Keep up the good work David!
Corey | 10:03 a.m. May 6, 2008
My life didn't need healing and I didn't need my spirits to be lifted, but when David sings, it really got me. Non-believer: you may think people here are exaggerating.. but let me ask you.. what inspires you in your life? If you can name at least one thing, then that�s great. We don�t have to agree on what affects us, of course it�s not going to be the same for everyone. But the fact is that many people have been touched by David�s singing and our lives are a little bit brighter because of him.
Jennifer | 10:04 a.m. May 6, 2008
I'm so happy that this worked out so well and that the book is being presented to David personally. It's amazing to read how much David has affected each one of our lives for the better.
admirer... | 10:05 a.m. May 6, 2008
david archuleta...
this kid is awesome... i personally think he has the capability to make a difference in this world with his singing...!
Keith | 10:07 a.m. May 6, 2008
It is a rare gift that David possesses. So many of us have been brought together by this remarkable young man and his beautiful voice. I hope this book gives him some indication of the impact he's having. Some things are more important that tv shows. I think this book proves that. We are all so proud of David. And what an amazing thing for Linha Phan to have accomplished in such a short time! Congrats to her!! I know meeting David will mean the world to her. From all of us scattered all over the world, congrats David on all your success! We wish you mountains and mountains of peace and happiness! And thank you to the writer for writing this article. It is great to see something published that acknowledges how many of David's fans feel.
Larissa | 10:14 a.m. May 6, 2008
David Archuleta inspires me not because I believe he has any spiritual powers, but because he is brave enough to stand before the world with integrity and humility. I have also come to believe that his dad is one of his biggest supporters, regardless of the media slant on the subject.
Chris | 10:23 a.m. May 6, 2008
We all need someone like David Archuleta in our lives. I know a few good, sweet, talented kids like him� but it�s always nice to see this on T.V. where the whole world can see that these kids still exist! His heartfelt and lovely singing is what drew me in, but it was his humble and genuine personality that kept me watching him. In many interviews, David states that he sings because he loves the connection he feels with his audience� well, I wonder if he knows just how many people he has truly connected with.
smiling4you | 10:28 a.m. May 6, 2008
This article says it all! David has touched many lives with his pure voice and exceptional personality. I too have been changed by having him in my life. I just feel so much calmer when I am listening to him sing. He has helped take away stress and that is such a good thing. He is truly a gift from God to all of us who will just listen and believe.
kary | 10:48 a.m. May 6, 2008
I'm a 27 years old professional from Puerto Rico and David has inspire me also. What I admire about him aside from his amazing voice is that at 17 he is so mature as a singer and he actually gets it! He isn't on idol to make millions a be a celebrity, he wants to sing and touch people's lives. The amazing thing is that his wish came true... He has stay true to himself in the competition and that is what people admire and what will set him apart in the future. I wrote a story in this book and I was amazed of the diversity of David fans. He has touched people from all walks of life, age, race, religion and nationalities. I will recomend anyone that still believe David is fake to really listen to his songs on itunes. You will listen to a prodigy singer pouring his soul in every song, nothing rehearse, nothing fake. He is a natural... If you give David a chance without judgement you will understand why so many people are inspire by this 17 year old young man. David GOD BLESS YOU!!!
Sam Lim | 10:56 a.m. May 6, 2008
All this kid wants is to share his gift which is singing - that's all he wants to do. what a waste of time on trying to analyze and speculate about the character of an individual looking for a personality defect on someone - I find it pathetic. Only GOD is perfect nobody else.
Non-believer II | 11:03 a.m. May 6, 2008
I agree with the other non-believer. At the end of the day this is still a Hollywood production that you guys are falling in love with. I've listened to him and I think he is talented but nothing extraordinary. Instead of looking to the media for upliftment, look to something more meaningful and substantial.
Re: Non-Believer | 11:32 a.m. May 6, 2008
Why fan the flames of misinformation regarding David's dad, Jeff Archuleta? Try clicking on the first search result link after googling "overhype archuleta".
Caution | 12:03 p.m. May 6, 2008
I too love David's voice along with my whole family. I wish him great success.

My word of caution comes from a real concern for this 17 year old boy who I'm pretty sure is not perfect. We as a public need to remember that. It is likely he or someone close too him will do something over the next few years that will upset us. It is also likely that he will be vilified in some circles as a result. Some of this has already started.

Let's be careful not to unfairly place David on too high of a pedestal because the higher he flies the farther he may fall and I don't want to see him get hurt.

In fact, in someways I hope he does not win so that he can start his singing career on his own timeline. Perhaps he wants to finish highschool and be a normal kid a little bit longer.

Concerning his strong, protective father, he may be David's greatest blessing when he is soon thrown to the wolves, i.e. hollywood, music industry, stardom, etc..
To the non-believers: | 12:05 p.m. May 6, 2008
The fact you would go out of your way to criticize the feelings others have is absolutely antithetical to anything you seem to be advocating as an alternative. Any reasonable person would understand and agree that music has incredible power to inspire, uplift and change lives. For some it is comes in the way of a ballad, others a piano concerto, and still for others it could be different. What is it to you if others are inspired by a very talented singer of a popular television show? What about the feelings these people have shared diminishes you in such a way you feel compelled to censure? I believe it is YOU who needs to get a life. The people writing here are doing so because they share a common reaction to a medium of inspiration. What do you care? Do you think we criticize you for crying to the words of Xanadu? After all, what you arrogantly classify as "meaningful" or "substantial," could be treated as dross by another. Who do you think you are?
To Non-Believers | 12:05 p.m. May 6, 2008
David is definitely talented and has a lot of potential. Although I personally have not been touched by him the way a lot of people seem to have been that does not mean that it is not real nor does it mean those who have been are pathetic. There is also a big difference between saying he has inspired someone and saying he has given them a spiritual experience. Music has great power to speak to the soul and I am sure you would find plenty who would say Metallica or Anthrax or some other heavy band has heavily influenced their lives.
Re: non believer II | 12:09 p.m. May 6, 2008
Upliftment can come through many forms, including the media. It is up to us to filter out what is positive or negative. I, for one, participate in many meaningful activities which give me a lift among other rewards. I feel badly for people like you who submit posts in an attempt to criticize other peoples feelings. You represent the non believers well.
moises | 12:10 p.m. May 6, 2008
i feel in the same way. he made me feel fine. he is a talent boy.
Nancy | 12:21 p.m. May 6, 2008
Thank you for this wonderful article. I have read the "David is my Hero" thread over on the AI boards, and the stories there are guaranteed to make the tears flow. I am so happy that the book will be given to David.

No matter the outcome of this competition, there is no question that David IS an American Idol. To inspire people and bring them together through his music and beautiful heart at only age 17 is truly amazing, and it shows what a gift this young man is! His parents should be very proud.
Bill from South Dakota | 12:35 p.m. May 6, 2008
David's singing inspires and lifts me each time I hear it. Since I travel A LOT I find my self listening to many of the 08 AI contestants on my iPod. David gets my vote every time! It is trully refreshing to see such a talented humble person do so well.
Francesca | 12:51 p.m. May 6, 2008
I watch american idol every year it is on and I have never been so connected to a contestant like I do with David Archuleta. He is Heaven sent, not to many people in this life can have an effect like he does. His voice his personality is amazing and I hope he will be the next american idol! God Bless you David.

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