David's Christmas Magic

There is a special moment during the holiday season when all of the hustle and bustle of activities finally stops; you have that moment to stare off into a sea of gifts and packages

A moment when something stirs at your heart and soul and a knowing smile comes to your face. A moment when everything is right with the world and a sense of well-being consumes you and radiates outward.

At Christmas if only for a moment, we are reminded of what is within each of us and when we choose to reflect we let ourselves be filled with joy and happiness.

Let this moment be ours, always. 

David Archuleta has the ability to give meaning to simple things, the strength to never give up and the courage to stand strong for what he believes.  These qualities are exceptional and he portrays them without effort.  His modesty and humility are virtues to be envied and this is why we continue to acknowledge how special he is.

I love his unwavering joy and holiday spirit. He embodies everything that this time of year means. His heart is big, full of love and never ending.

In past years it was mentioned David has shied away from any description of an Angel; his humility could not recognize his angelic attributes but often our love for him can only be descriptive in Angelic terms.

Upon researching there are many definitions of Angel and they all representing how we feel and recognize the essence of David Archuleta.  One of my favorite’s……A person who is kind, pure or beautiful, someone who makes your heart jump when they enter the room and how about; someone with such a pure soul, who brightens the earth, and people around them.  

The list continues with; one who manifests goodness, purity, an selflessness, a kind and lovable person, guiding influence, divine messenger, treasure, jewel, gem, dream which all exemplify David Archuleta.

David’s singing seeps into our hearts and makes us feel and understand joys in ways that escape most of us.  His music magic of the Christmas season has revitalized our spirit and soul thanks to the gift we received from the glorious upstream from Fans of David last night.  It will forever be sealed in our hearts with remembrance and gratitude.

David’s excitement and thrill of being a full time missionary must be escalated at this time during the Christmas season.  He is working hard and giving all of his time to serving the people around him.  He has not been forgotten and is appreciated more than words can say.  He has made us see how beautiful life is and he keeps us smiling.  I feel him in my heart every day.

Like many Christmas seasons they can be filled with sadness and difficulty and the brokenness of our world drives us to the One who brings wholeness, One whose birth we celebrate at Christmas.  We need to remember to live every moment of every day in his light. 

 

Blessings to all this Holiday Season!

David Archuleta Retrospective Series Part Ten: I'll Be Home for Christmas and Silent Night

by Pamela Pike and Rosanne Simunovic

Pamela Pike's Recollection of "I'll Be Home for Christmas

“I’ll Be Home for Christmas” is a Christmas song recorded in 1943 by Bing Crosby who scored a top ten hit with the song.  “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” has since gone onto become a Christmas standard.  The song was written by lyricist Kim Gannon and composer Walter Kent.

The song is sung from the point of view of an overseas soldier during WWII, writing a letter to his family.  In the message, he tells the family that he will be coming home, and to prepare the holiday for him including requests for “snow”, “mistletoe”, and “presents under the tree”.  The song ends on a melancholy note, with the soldier saying “I’ll be home for Christmas, if only in my dreams.”

In December of 1948, Bob Hope and other performers traveled to Berlin, Germany, to entertain members of the armed forces participating in the Berlin Airlift. This was his first Christmas tour to entertain troops and the beginning of a Hope tradition that lasted until1990.

The song touched the hearts of Americans both soldiers and civilians, who were in the midst of World War II. "I'll Be Home for Christmas" became the most requested song at Christmas U.S.O. shows.

David Archuleta’s “Christmas From the Heart” album was released on October 13, 2009 and his vocal virtuosity gave this album a timeless appeal to his fans and lovers of the traditional Christmas music.  His gorgeous tone, silky timbre and stunning voice were suited to “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and with his slightly jazzy treatment added heartfelt appeal.

David has a way of squeezing every drop of emotion out of a lyric.  David's style imparts each song a particular touch, highly inspired, emotionally crafted, and technically perfect.

It's amazing the images of family life and times gone by that this song brings to the table.  I have

extremely fond memories of this song.  I can't think of a better paring than David's golden voice and

the lyrics to I'll Be Home for Christmas.  He sings this song effortlessly.

David's mellow version will have you calling your mother or grandmother.  His vocal are so sweet

and nonchalant as they tug at your holiday heart strings whether he's swelling the big notes or almost speaking a soft word or two, David knows how to get to you.

Christmas music is an important part of the whole holiday season.  The music and sounds of Christmas come from all styles and genres, providing something for every musical taste.  Some carols are very religious, bringing the reason for the season front and center.  Others are totally about the holiday season and cheer, focusing on the fun of Christmas.  A few are even melancholy, focusing on

missing loved ones at Christmas.

This song is just as poignant today as it was over 65 years ago as it reminds us many loved one are still separated from their families for various reasons.  I will remember them all this holiday season with love and wish them peace, safety and pray they will be home soon.

And for David Archuleta, my special heartfelt holiday wishes and Thanks for all your gifts, hard

work and sacrifices you bless us with every day.  Love closes the distance between hearts.  We are never far away.  

Rosanne Simunovic's Recollection Of "Silent Night" Silent Night is a classic Christmas carol of German heritage. It was composed by Franz Xaver Gruber.  The original German title is "Stille Nacht".  This endearing Christmas carol has been performed by artists of every genre and classical artists, in particular, often perform this song in both German and English, as well as other languages. It is a timeless carol that continues to live on in the hearts and minds of Christians everywhere - a true Christmas tradition. http://masterclasslady.com/2011/12/12/masterclass-mondaydavid-archuletas-inspiring-version-of-silent-night/ December 11th, 2011, I treated myself to David's exquisite version of this Christmas song. Here are some of my thoughts: "This video of David Archuleta performing Silent Night with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra has to be the most compelling, passionate and inspiring performance of this song classic I have ever had the pleasure to see and hear. Recorded live last Christmas and set to "http://www.somethingboutarchie.com/2011/10/motab-glad-christmas-tidings-tv-air.html"air on PBS on Tuesday, December 13th from 8:00-9:00 P.M, David's arrangement of this beautiful carol is nothing short of exceptional. His phrasing, inflection, his lyrical, seamless vocal quality and expressive interpretation, are absolutely sublime. His face is radiant throughout this song and genuinely expresses the meaning of the lyrics in every verse. Watch how his demeanor changes for each verse. It is very evident in the third verse, where his facial expression and body language mirrors the text so very well. He wears his joy and happiness on his sleeve. It really is remarkable." I have since watched this performance many times and, of course, during the preparation of this article.  I am moved each time, without fail. David lives and breathes every word, every phrase. No one communicates this song better than David at this point in time. It is just a beautifully moving experience that is transcendent and intangible. I would like to express a very Merry Christmas to David and his family, friends and fans. Thank you David for bringing the joy, passion, laughter and stellar artistic sensibility to your music, then sharing it with us in such a meaningful way. May the blessings and joy of the Christmas season carry you through life's challenges and inspire you to achieve all your goals.

Rainbow Remix Video

Rainbows are one of the most beautiful spectacles nature has to offer and each observer sees a different rainbow, they inspire countless fairy tales, songs and legends.  A rainbow is regarded as lucky, a symbol of peace, and on occasion for making wishes, it is sometimes said to mean good news coming.

Rainbows look like pure magic, breath taking to behold and David Archuleta’s new video Rainbow is no exception.  It has me smiling from ear to ear.  David’s voice is silky smooth, addicting and has an appeal that explodes your heart with his sizzling hot voice. Drink in the screen shots they will give your heart a flutter.  Note to self…get a bigger computer screen.

Technology is a wonderful thing; multiple split screens, fast fade ins and outs.  Found is difficult to stop and write a review I couldn’t keep my finger of the repeat play button.  David steals your heart with flirty dance moves and a melody that’s upbeat and exciting. 

David raises temperatures in his hot new video with smoking good looks.  It offers fans another look at what David has in store for us in the future.  We can all swoon now.  He is suave, cool, elegant, playful, and that twinkle of cheekiness in the eye gives us all kinds of sexy within this giant video of gorgeousness.

I am at a loss for words, he’s full of emotion, eyes full of promise, video was beautifully crafted, the song beautifully sang.  Women and girls will melt in a collective puddle, smitten by the sound of his voice.  This video will win many hearts.

He has something truly special to give to his fans; this goes above the typical attributes like his talent, songs, voice or even his looks, sound and image. There is something truly infectious at the core of him that simply makes us feel good when we listen to him; it makes us dream a little. 

 

This video is clearly marketed for those who like a dare I say a sexy David with a mystique. He hits the mark remarkable well just being who he is and let me say this is one of the hottest videos David has given us so far.

A rainbow’s beauty simply says that even after the roughest storm things will get better.  Beauty will appear in a person’s life again. Rainbows are not just colors in the sky they are promises for your heart.

David loves creating and sharing good music.  He is passionate and improves our quality of life through songs.  Thank you for sharing your gifts of time and talent.

 

Gift David’s Forevermore Expanded Edition this Holiday Season!

Christmas from a Distance

We have to show our love from a distance but no distance is too far, no time is too long…..to celebrate our love for David Archuleta.

Never in a million years did I think I’d meet someone so utterly and completely perfect, someone who would make me happier than I ever dreamed I could be, someone that would touch my life so profoundly and just give me a whole new reason to breathe.

My Christmas memories of him are like snowflakes each one beautiful, unique and gone too soon.  His Christmas tours were nights of songs wrapped in a blanket; it warmed all hearts and filled them with melody that would last forever.

The power of his voice is beyond description.  His music never ceases to open my heart.  His songs are a way of caressing people with his voice and I am missing his presence this holiday season.

David’s music is so spiritual that it easily becomes a part of our celebration of the Christmas spirit. Christmas means a joyful time of the year and will always be a time to reflect on Jesus. It means giving happiness to others and allowing happiness to be given to you.

Let’s close our eyes and listen for the bells, imagine the snow falling softly in the glow of the evening and David voice taking us on a journey.  You’ve arrived at a place somewhere between your heart and soul; it is the world of David’s rich musical gifts of Christmas songs.

Sometimes all we need is a little inspiration and motivation in our lives, his music can open your eyes, make you think deeply, energize you, and encourage you to face another day.  It can bring comfort just knowing that he understands where you are and how you feel. With music he is serving others with a loving heart.

His music is echoed in our daily lives as an instrument of God’s love, if you ever want to get anybody in touch with God, have David sing to them.

David is using all his gifts and talent concurrently, to touch and reach out and serve those on his mission, and ultimately work on his personal relationship with the Lord.

His music is enjoyable and real, personal and heart touching and will be a source of encouragement to all who hear him.  David is an extraordinary and gifted musician, but more than that, he is centered, sharing the love of the Lord in all he say and does.

This Holiday Season an Angel will sing, a star, a radiant light will still surround me with all his “ooh’s and aah’s; I will play his music he gave from his heart.

So my message to David this Christmas year is…….Even though we’re miles apart, Christmas Magic is in my heart.  You have to know you’ve given me the gift I most adore, the many memories I have of yore.

David Archuleta Retrospective Series Part Nine: Little Drummer Boy

By Pamela Pike and Rosanne Simunovic

 

Pamela Pike’s Recollection

The “Little Drummer Boy” originally known as “Carol of the Drums” was written by the American Classical music composer and teacher Katherine K. Davis in 1941.  It was recorded in 1955 and further popularized by a 1958 recording by the Harry S. Simeone Chorale, arranged by Henry Onorati and Harry Simeone.  It’s been a perennial holiday favorite ever since then.
    

The singers lyrics relates how, as a poor young boy, he was summoned by the  Magi to the nativity where, without a gift for the baby Jesus, he played his drum with the Virgin Mary’s approval, remembering, “I played my best for Him” and “He smiled at me”.

David’s take on “Little Drummer Boy” was an ambitious choice considering many had already laid down a definitive version of the song.  So what did David bring to the table, restraint for one thing, maintaining the traditional feel of the original standard that we’ve grown to love?

A beautiful voice packed with emotion, soul and vulnerability, poignant.  The music is kept in a traditional style, but David’s performance was quite spirited and lively.

David puts his own original spin on everything he does.  His 2011 Christmas Tour version features lots of drums and lots of interesting vocal nuances to make you truly appreciate his need to be original.  It’s an unexpected yet amazing match that catches you off guard.

Music producer, Dapo Torimiro released a Christmas album called Dapo & Friends Christmas Volume 1.  He collaborated with a lot of amazing artists remaking many of the Christmas classics.  One of them was David Archuleta with their version of “Little Drummer Boy”. It is deeply affecting and touching.

We all love singing the Christmas Carol “The Little Drummer Boy”, a beautiful song lyrically and melodically.   Our hearts swell as the poor boy offers his best, meager gift to the Baby in the manger, and we smile in joy as the infant Lord graciously smiles His Thanks.

The unmatched phenomenal voice of David so beautiful and controlled, mellow and mature sends chills down my spine.  Such a humble entertainer, such an overwhelming talent!

You are guaranteed a satisfying, meaningful, and somewhat nostalgic Christmas Music that even your boy band listening kids will love.

God only made so many perfect singing voices and David Archuleta surely got one of them.

http://youtu.be/Nh69_q0U7Ag

Rosanne Simunovic's Recollections

I must share a very cute story involving my 16-month-old grandson and David's performance of "The Little Drummer Boy". 

Back in December 2011, my grandson, who was 10-months-old at the time, was mastering the art of standing and walking through the support of furniture located around the house. He couldn't quite get there on his own but, daily, his little legs were getting stronger and stronger.

Then one afternoon,  I decided to play David's video performance of "The Little Drummer Boy" on my IPad. Well, to say that my grandson was mesmerized by David's voice would be an understatement.

He intently watched David as he sang through the first three verses with his signature style - passionately communicating the music and lyrics in own special way. It was a special moment between Grandson and Grandmother.

But then something truly exciting happened. When both the percussive background and David's inner rockstar started to kick into high gear, my grandson became incredibly  excited. He left my side, went to the middle of the floor and started to bend and stand to the rhythm of the music. And wouldn't stop to come up for air!  It was one of those "oh my goodness" moments!  Where did this come from?

Here he was - bending and standing on his own, spurred on by the intense passion and drive in David's voice. And he matched the rhythmic tempo as well. I just couldn't get over it! 

This scene was re-enacted all afternoon, becoming stronger by the minute. And, because he heard me say "You did it, Yay!" each time he showcased his new developmental trick, he decided to speak those words as well.  Speaking and standing at the same time? The miracle of David's voice? I like to think so. There is no other explanation for this metamorphosis.

When his parents returned from work that evening, they were treated to quite a spectacle. It was an early Christmas gift, thanks to David and his innate ability to inspire and motivate!
David's performance of this song was absolutely brilliant. How he came up with this unique concept for this song is inexplicable and testament to the depth and maturity of David's musical gifts.   

It has to be one of my favorite Christmas performances by David.  My hope is that it will find its way on to a recording at some point in time.  I feel that it is destined to be a classic - timeless and true, like its vocal artist - David James Archuleta.

"Bravo David and thank you for helping my grandson (whose middle name is David - another great coincidence)- move closer to the walking stage before he hit the 1-year-old mark!  Hopefully, this indicates that my grandson has somehow inherited your love and passion for music. One can only dream! 

David Archuleta Retrospective Series Part Eight: Contigo de la Distancia

by Pamela Pike and Rosanne Simunovic

Pamela Pike’s Recollections

This song will always have a place in my heart after watching David Archuleta perform this beautiful Cuban ballad written in 1946 by Filin songwriter, Cesar Pertillo de la Luz. The lyrics seemed to be written with David and his heartfelt emotions in mind. “Nothing can console me if you’re not here too”……those lyrics were felt in my heart.  His interpretation was so great a translation into English wasn’t even necessary to understand its meaning.

Filin is a way to sing or rather a song with feeling.  Cesar Portillo de la Luz once remarked: Every way capable of communicating something is a good way of singing.  Filin is sung with the heart and above all with honesty.  David Archuleta was asked to sing this song for his Year in Music Alma Award and it was the perfect match of beauty and artistry.

Luis Miguel and Christina Aguilera have had great success with their versions, but I feel David’s rendition gave us the greatest amount of emotions and feelings of love within the lyrics.

Looking back to my previous article on voices.yahoo.com – Positive Career Performances, I stated:

If there were any events that moved David’s career closer to stardom it would have to be at the Alma Awards in September 2009, singing Contigo de la Distancia.  He definitely rose to the occasion and raised the bar higher for all other entertainers that evening and in the future.

For 3 minutes and 41 seconds I floated through his song hoping it would never end.  My eyes tearing watching this young singer bring brilliance to the TV Screen.  My thoughts quickly went to his mother sitting in the audience.  How beamingly proud she must feel at that moment watching her son tenderly caress the American public with his artistry

.

David’s effortless vocal talent captures the mood for love in perfect style with feeling and incredible passion.  He casts a spell on his audiences with his beautiful voice.  How can we possibly put into words the way in which he makes us feel when he sings?  There is something about his voice that opens our hearts and transports us to another place.

It was his first time singing in Spanish on television, and with only a guitar player, David Thomas Hopkins, and his vocals, he mesmerized the audience.  His performance was flawless and he received a standing ovation

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Note: David won the Year in Music ALMA Award – NCLA – National Council of La Raza’s New Artist Award – The National Council of La Raza (NCLR) is a non-profit and non-partisan advocacy group in the United States, focused on improving opportunities for Hispanics.

Rosanne Simunovic's Recollections

When David performed this beautiful Spanish Ballad on the ALMA awards in 2009, I immediately http://masterclasslady.com/2009/09/23/david-archuletas-performance-on-the-alma-awards/rewarded high praise for yet another inspiring performance:

" ......I have received numerous emails about David Archuleta’s outstanding and inspiring performance of ” Contigo En La Distancia” (With You While You Are Away) at the 2009 ALMA Awards.

Let me just say that, if you have not seen or heard David’s Spanish number, you are in for a very memorable musical treat. David’s artistry continues to enfold and soars to remarkable heights during the performance of this song.

Oftentimes, the refinement of his technical skills astounds me – he never veers from the proper technical approach in his singing style. Yet, at the same time, his voice sounds fluid, relaxed, liberated and soulful.

His Spanish pronunciation is exquisite and meaningful. He feels every word, every nuance and this is the key to David Archuleta’s musical gifts. He is a vocal narrator of the highest order and makes absolutely certain that his musical heart and passion reaches the center of our soul.

And, did you notice the depth of his lower range at the beginning of the main section of the song, as he sang the words “No hay bella melodia”?  The rich timbre of his baritone voice has definitely increased in volume – just gorgeous. This will continue to grow and flourish with each passing year.

In closing, the strong visual and aural presentation of this song was extraordinary.   And, almost two years later, this song still casts a spell over my heart. The manner in which he embraces every word, pacing his delivery with exquisite taste and nuance, is a Masterclass lesson for all to behold.

I have always been such a huge fan of Latino music. I am Italian by heritage and the languages are so close and the cultures almost identical.

Therefore, to hear such a young artist perform this beautiful Spanish ballad with impeccable taste and refinement was a very special experience for me, one that I could truly savor and appreciate.  It is a singer's language, for, even spoken, the language has a singable quality that lends itself naturally to a beautiful melodic line.

David clearly deserved his ALMA award - his talent is extraordinary and his passion and gift for music unparalleled.

Rosanne Simunovic
http://www.masterclasslady.com
http://www.granniethegeek.com

Finding His Place

In his pre American Idol days David Archuleta was a young artist very involved in music and recorded two songs written with Merrick Christensen a young man the same age as David.  Both songs “Angels in The Alleyway” and The Most Beautiful Part About This Is” reflected personal and family struggles Merrick had, and with his fears of letting himself and God down.

The songs gave Merrick faith, inspiration and hope as he turned to God and realized his support was present.  By David recording these songs with him it has had an incredible impact on him and his family’s life. 

Music can reflect our actions and give us guidance, direction and carry messages of inspiration.  Faith is built and strengthens by songs of many artists today one of which is David Archuleta. Many songs are filled with messages about appropriate and inappropriate attitudes and actions toward morality. 

No matter how much music may be different in various cultures, it seems that music serves a general common purpose; to bring people together.  David leaves a resonating sound for all listeners and illuminates passion for meaningful music.

David’s creative interpretations of touching songs give way to his productive future and his dedication to poignant melody’s will continue to give listeners the promise of a devoted singer in the music industry.

A struggle for power in the music industry causes conflict when many artists leave their music label in order to attain greater artistic freedom or better contracts.  The industry and producers have the ability to control messages, influence lyrics, build specific fan bases and promote artists most likely to make money leaving less desirable but sometimes more talented artists in the shadows.

Radio play is essential and much more effective at selling music than print reviews.  David could certainly use more radio play; his talent deserves more attention. 

So the question as to labels for David on his return, very well may depend on his choice of the direction he wishes to take his music and if he feels a need to compromise his values.  Falling into that well of dark discussions and decisions doesn’t seem to be in his character.  There will be choices for David and many of them I have no doubt, and upon his return a more life experienced and mature young man will find a place for his music. 

No one knows the rhythm of our hearts better than David Archuleta and the following two songs proved that at his early age music was food for his soul, and as it turned out he is food for our soul.  

http://youtu.be/IHxtf7Ndtns