David Archuleta and Demi Lovato - Wireimage
Something happened Sunday (November 1) in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The casino town normally filled to the brim with little old ladies ready to hit it big on the slots was flooded with tweens, teens, and twenty-somethings thanks to David Archuleta and Demi Lovato, two uber-talented teens from two of pop culture’s biggest juggernauts, American Idol and Disney.
AC’s Trump Taj Mahal was the home of the final rescheduled date on their joint tour that was supposed to wrap in August. As the night got underway, it was clear that although there was understandable disappointment initially regarding the date shuffle, it was well worth the wait.
First up was Archuleta. Unfairly dubbed the opening act until several shows were abruptly postponed (Oh, Disney!), Archie made the most of his impressive 50-minute set. He’s a bit of a minimalist when it comes to showmanship — not a bad thing. He skips the flash and gimmicks many singers use to cover up their shortcomings and gets right to the meat of performing live — actually singing, and doing so damn well.
Backed by a four-piece band, he went through songs from his self-titled debut album like “Touch My Hand,” “A Little Too Not Over You,” “Don’t Let Go,” and the surprisingly swaggerific “Your Eyes Don’t Lie,” where he allowed the crowd to take over the whistling since he’s “not the best” at it. After the performance, he asked the crowd what they were for Halloween and mistook someone yelling out that they were candy corn as “Mandy Moore.” Those small engaging moments with the audience made Archie’s show even better. Not only did we get to see his amazing talent, we got a feel for who he really is: sweet, funny, and a real charmer.
One of the biggest highlights from his set was a bare-bones cover of OneRepublic‘s monster hit “Apologize.” Archie sat at his piano, spotlight fixed on him, and belted the tune with his smooth, haunting voice. Idol fans might recall season 8 winner Kris Allen‘s version from the show — David’s slaughters his, and buries the original right next to it.
17-year-old Demi Lovato may not have the commercial success as her Disney colleague and pal Miley Cyrus, but what she has over Miley, and pretty much any other Disney-bred singer/actress combo, is an extraordinary voice.
Like David, Demi relied heavily on the basics. She had no costume changes, no pyro, no stunts. What she did have to accompany her silky vocals were a piano and guitar she switched up using during her hour-plus set, and a five-piece band.
“You guys are my last show so let’s make it memorable!” she told the crowd after warming up with “La La Land” and ” Gonna Get Caught.”
Her set was a perfect mix of songs from her debut album, Don’t Forget, and the painfully underrated sophomore set Here We Go Again.
As she went on performing, it was clear she was a novice — she looked a bit awkward trying to make use of the big stage — but has great potential to grow if given the chance. Even though her stage presence needs work, her voice shined. It was a bit strained from touring and the constant work on the set of the recently wrapped movie Camp Rock 2, which she promises will be “bigger and better” than the original, but all was forgiven, especially when she picked up her guitar to sweetly croon the three-parts ballad, one-part rocker “Catch Me.”
Taking a break from the party to get a bit serious, Demi dedicated “Two Worlds Collide” to a close friend who she says deals with bullying in school — something she’s all too familiar with. “Rumors and gossip can do so much more than a punch in the face,” she told the crowd about her days of being picked on in school. “You could go so much further being good to people. I didn’t do anything back [to the bullies], and I’m here on this stage tonight.”
Another dedication was a cover of Aretha Franklin‘s “Natural Woman,” which went out to the moms in the audience. “I know it’s impossible to do these songs justice but I have fun singing them,” she said. Quite the contrary. Of course it wasn’t an Aretha-sized effort, but Demi held her own against the big song, her voice soaring with soul over the chorus.
That could be said of both Demi and David. In an industry dominated by big shtick and big images, these two will hold their own against it all by relying on what matters most: big talent.
Thanks SO much for this great review!! I love what you said about “Apologize” and “Your Eyes Don’t Lie.” Both are overlooked gems.
Glad you guys had such a great time and thanks for posting this so quickly!!!
Thanks TJ for the concert review. I’m glad you got to see David Archuleta Live!! He was fantastic on stage. I attended 2 of his concerts. I had so much fun. His voice!!!! Can’t wait for his Christmas concert. I hope you can attend one.
thanks for this spot on review of david’s performance in ac… he has evolved into a very exciting and dynamic live performer, and it’s not an exaggeration to say that he’s one of the best out there touring now, for an all around, top to bottom stellar live show… david has pure, unadulterated, un-manufactured talent, and that is what will hold him in good stead, and keep him in the forefront of the industry going forward…
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fantastic review. thanks. also enjoyed your tweets during the show. :)
TJ you said He’s a bit of a minimalist when it comes to showmanship — not a bad thing. He skips the flash and gimmicks many singers use to cover up their shortcomings and gets right to the meat of performing live — actually singing, and doing so damn well.
me: YOU ARE RIGHT ON. THAT IS EXACTLY HOW I FEEL, ACTUALLY SINGING! Thanks.
Thank you for a wonderful review. David Archuleta is a mega talented singer, performer, and songwriter. His charisma and humble nature make him a unique individual. All these qualities make him one of the must see live performers.
Fantastic review – you got it right. I was there and so enjoyed the fun the crowd had with David in discussing Halloween. He is truly a charmer, without any put-on. His voice rang clearly through the Arena and captivated the audience. Apologize was stunning. Thanks for quickly posting the review.
Great review of both Demi and David. I’m an Archuleta fan but I saw him and Demi twice on this tour, and enjoyed her smoky voice. And, David? Well, what can I say? As I said before, I saw Demi and David twice on this tour. Which followed seeing David once on his first solo tour. Which followed seeing him twice on the AI season 7 tour. LOL! (My poor bank account.) Addicted to that voice and that sweet, funny guy who never sings a song the same way twice.
TJ, you’re spot on with your review of David Archuleta, I was there and wholeheartedly agree with every word you said. The “sweet funny charmer”, and he’s not even trying to be. The flawless performance of Apologize. The smooth haunting voice. The minimalist showman, because distractions aren’t needed. When you have the voice, talent and stage presence the magnitude of David, that’s all you need on the stage. Seeing David live is a must see. Can’t wait for his Christmas tour. Thanks for the great, and accurate, review.
I liked the closing statement. The music industry needs to focus more on pure ability than flash and image for a change. I find myself not listening
to the radio much at all anymore, something I used to love.
david archuleta is one of the greatest singers out today….still cant understand why his hits are barely ever played on the radio…he has soooo many good songs…….i saw him live in concert…phenomenol……….he has it all…looks…personality…kindness…and as we all no…..THAT VOICE..i love david archuleta……..dont care much for demi but all the luck to her…..zero gravity could be a number 1 hit on the radio………..wake up all you radio stations and start playing david….loved your reviews neon and glad you got to see …the superstar of the year and years to come……..
YES!! I attended a Demi/David concert in July and was blown away by David’s performance, even though I’ve seen him live twice in the past. He just has this magical way of picking us up and taking us along with him to “that place” where he goes when he sings! It’s truly incredible! There will never be another one like him, in my opinion. Keeping it “real” is what David does best and what sets him apart from other artists. SHINE ON DAVID!
The Double D’s did their thing!! Thats good. Sounds like a great show.
Agreed! David “live” needs to be experienced. I’ve been to MANY different concerts for many different acts over the years and never have I come out from a performance so exhilarated, happy and IMPRESSED! I went to the Demi concert for my girls but came out a HUGE David Archuleta fan, so much so that I’ve purchased VIP tickets for his christmas tour. He is a joy, a true talent, and as mentioned can SING!! (I’ve also stopped listening to the radio because the music is so repetitively auto-tuned and synchronized and completely lacking in meaningful lyrics). David to the rescue!
I saw Demi and David in San Jose didn’t know much about David but now I love him too and will see him in SF for the Xmas show!
Oh my what a wonderful review and couldn’t agree more! Thanks!
You guys rock!
Awesome write up and spot on, you so “get him” David is the real deal ?
There shouldn’t be a question mark after deal lol its supposed to be a period.
Thank you for this great review. I see you “get” David and really enjoyed his wonderful live show. I have attended 14 (blushes) David shows and each one is unique and stunning. There is nothing like him live. His voice is beyond compare. I hope you get to attend one of his upcoming Christmas shows. I enjoyed the tweets during the show, too.
OH YEAH!! David Archuleta is the REAL thing–he ROCKS!!
I absolutely love David Archuleta! David’s beautiful voice doesn’t need any gimmicks or over the top staging (think Britney Spears). I don’t know if he sang “You Can” or “Just To Be With You” at this concert but at others he sang “You Can” with just a guitar as backup and sand “Just To Be With You” with his bandmate Kendra playing the violin and he played the piano. It is just amazing to me how an 18 year old can sing the way he does! David is talented, down to earth, funny, charming, adorable, etc., etc.! I have tickets to see him perform his Christmas Tour in Salt Lake City. I’m looking forward to seeing him again. He is a true talent!!!!
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I’m agreeing with the comments regarding David not being played on radio. Can’t understand why that is. I believe YOU CAN is one of the best songs on the album. Surely they will play his wonderful Christmas album. The only problem is there are only 6 weeks until Christmas. Not nearly enough time.
Also David shouldn’t be the opening act for anyone. HE IS THE MAIN ACT. Thanks for the lovely review, TJ. That too was a breath of fresh air.
Sure hope some TV shows have David on as a guest singing those Christmas carols.
I’m so happy Neon Limelight had a chance to see this show. Nothing like seeing a performer in person to appreciate the total talent. Thanks for a great review.
I went to a Demi/David concert this summer and came out a huge David Archuleta fan. Besides that haunting, soulful voice, he has what very few others have in the music industry and that is charisma. That guy stepped out on the stage and had total control of the audience from beginning to end. I don’t think it matters if he is in front of 10 people or 10,000 people – he is in control. Quite an amazing thing to see.
David grabs your heart right at the first note of the first song, and doesn’t let go!!! His magnetism is undeniable and unrelentless!!! Once you have seen David in a “live” performance, you are sentenced to a life of joy and happiness!!! His voice is like no other, and his personality is downright addictive!! He needs no bells and whistles, because you cannot take your eyes off him or his performance. If he ever decided to add more gimmicks, it would be a waste of money, as no one would even notice!!! David has the entire audience in “shock and awe” from the moment he comes out on the stage with a his huge smile and touching heart! There is no performer or musical artist that has as much talent and charisma as David Archuleta!!! ( in my humble opinion!) My life has been changed so much by watching David. He is the real deal and a role model for all ages!!! Yes…a breath of fresh air!
Thank you for the great review. David is very talent boy and he sing beautiful.
I went to 6 of the summer tour shows (2 of them were the makeup shows before AC) just to see David Archuleta perform. I just love his soulful / pop sound and his concerts are just so much fun. David is so comfortable on stage chatting with the crowd and having them participate in the singing & whistling. But it’s David voice that shines! I just think he is an amazing singer / songwriter! And I love his new Christmas album that just came out called Christmas from the Heart. David is also going on a solo tour in Nov & Dec and I’ve already got tickets to 5 of those shows! I just love his voice and David is just a genuinely nice person on top it all.
NEON Limelight – You are right about Archie’s “Apologize” NO ONE DOES IT BETTTTTTTTTTTTER! All his songs are great! He’s absolutely the BEST EVER!!!!!
I’ve seen David Archuleta sing seven times, and racked up over 10,000 miles in the process. Despite not having gone to concerts for a looong time (other than the symphony), those seven appearances of David’s weren’t nearly enough! So, I had to get a flight to Santa Rosa for the end of this month so I can see one of his Christmas concerts. Like you said, he’s an incredible singer and has an extremely endearing personality. What a charmer! Plus, he’s easy on the eyes, I must admit.
David made a HUGE fan out someone who’d never been a fan of anyone. I am over the moon for this uber-talented, kind, sweet, winsome young dude.
I love his Christmas album and every song on it. It’s exquisite. My particular favorites are Pat-a-Pan, Riu Riu Chiu, What Child is This?, Ave Maria and Silent Night. And, I love the song you don’t–Melodies of Christmas. David’s voice is so strong and pure, yet tender. Sometimes he sings huge, other times it’s like listening in on a prayer.
This is my most beloved Christmas album ever! If you buy only one Christmas CD this year, this should be the one. It’s fabulous! You’ll never regret the purchase coz it will become an instant favorite in your house, without a doubt.
Wow love david’s voice and his christmas album is wonderful.
Awesome review! Your tweets were a lot of fun too, TJ. Hope you’ll get a chance to meet David during his Christmas Tour. He’s such a great guy!
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That review was sensational about two young talented and sweet entertainers. I am a much older fan of David’s. I been to six of David’s concerts and will be attending 2 of his Christmas From The Heart concerts. Never in my life have I enjoyed and been enthralled by such a great singing voice and wonderful personality that are David Archuleta. Each time I see him in concert, I can’t wait to see him in another concert. Cannot get enough of David and his voice. I listen to his Christmas album 2 and 3 times a day. Each song is done to perfection. That is David Archuleta, only the best and he does it effortlessly. Thanks again for acknowledging what we his fans, have known for quite some time.
I was there and I love this review…you really got the highlights right!
Love your assessment of Apologize, which David has been killing since last year…”Idol fans might recall season 8 winner Kris Allen’s version from the show — David’s slaughters his, and buries the original right next to it.” Ha! Exactly.
And the halloween chit chat was adorable. David was his usual charming self and sounded great. “Swaggerific” describes the best live version I’ve heard yet of YEDL!! (Unfortunately, we failed David in the whistling dept. as none of us did too well at it either…he did much better!)
I was fortunate to see both the 1st and last night of the tour and both had their own energy and awesome vibe…David’s become quite at home performing. Great review, thanks!
Neonlimelight, You will be surprised if you know how many adult fans love David as an artist and person. He is so fresh, pure and good that when I think of him, I feel so happy and warm. I love your review. I have been to his/Demi’s concert in summer with my family and his set was too short, well, about 45 min, but went by so quickly. My family is going to his Christmas concert in December. Can’t wait.
yall hoes need 2 stop worrin bout anotha bitch wen u dnt even go wit nobody so get da fuk bck god damn D.A.T.T
David should have been touted as the “head-line” performer! (just my prejudiced opinion – hahha) Seriously, I thank you so very much for the positive feedback of a stellar vocalist and sweet, humble charismatic performer. Mark my word, David is going to be around for a long long long time! And, as we already are aware, Disney’s talents come and go……
david u were amazing and so were u demi ehehe i luv u both i was @ the last concert tour concert in atlantic city and when me and my cuzin were looking through the casino and we saw that there was a david archie meet and greet
so we ran there and we were on time thank god and we waited 30 mins and when we finnaly reached the door the person said that u had to have tix for the meet and greet i was very upset that i didnt get to meet my #1 idol david archuleta
i luv u ehehe
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