David Archuleta Fans Germany

I interview a lot of artists and bands, and most of these interviews come with the opportunity to attend their respective concerts, take photos for the paper, etc. I rarely attend these events, mostly due to time. However, I so enjoyed my interactions with Archuleta this past week that I decided to take my wife to his concert.

„Why did I do this?“ I asked myself as I sat through a particularly not enjoyable pre-show. When the screaming started (true to Archuleta’s own words, the loudest he’s ever heard) I was even more outside of my comfort zone. Thankfully, I was „taking pictures for the paper,“ which made my front and center position less awkward and noticeable.

But what was my surprise when this „American Idol“ star, an accolade I often scoff at, opened with what I can only describe as a fun, truly enjoyable song. And lo, the second song was even better. My expectations of weak vocals and cheesy, teen-pop lyrics fled, and I sat back to enjoy the show.

But more impressive to me than his performance were the traits he exhibited in our interaction during the week, the very traits that prompted me to attend his concert.

Trait No. 1: He’s a regular, even humble, kid.

When speaking of the release of his new book, Archuleta had no assumption of his own great wisdom or experience. Instead, he said the publishers approached him, so he thought maybe, since he has been a teenager, his experience with trials and overcoming might speak to other teenagers and help them out. While I saw for a fact that many nonteenagers were buying his book, Archuleta held no illusions for himself of trying to be profound to an older audience.

Trait No. 2: He’s loyal to his fans. When I asked the manager at Deseret Book how long Archuleta would be signing books last Thursday, he told me it started at 6 p.m.

„When does it end?“ I asked.

„When all the books are signed,“ he replied.

The manager went on to say that Archuleta personalizes each book he signs, something most artists don’t take the time to do. From the look of things, Archuleta has a strong enough fan base to get away with just signing books from 6 to 8 p.m. So why go the extra mile? I guess he really appreciates those that have made him who he is today, and hasn’t forgotten it.

Trait No. 3: It turns out he really can sing.