Courtesy of Parliament 
Don’t ‘kid’ yourself. The youngster, David Archuleta will not be the next American IDOL. Let me tell you why.
Much like previous American IDOL, there is always a front runner. Last year, Melinda Doolittle, and the year prior, Chris Daughtry. Early on, when a contestant thrives in the early rounds, he or she sets a mark, or gives a performance that is deemed so good, or great, and the public jumps on the bandwagon. Here’s where the problem lies. When an Idol peaks too early, or gives a memorable performance in the early stages, it sets themselves up for major disappointment. Let me explain.
“Clocking quick fractions” … is a term horse racing fans are all too familiar with. You don’t want to go out too fast. And David Archuleta just went out in 21 flat, in a Mile and a Quarter race. When an American IDOL contestant gives a top-notch performance early, they are expected to match this level week in, and week out. And frankly, it just doesn’t happen. Archuleta received tons of praise for his performance of the Lennon classic “IMAGINE”, this week. Even I thought it was great. But guess what, as the weeks pass, the “boy wonder” Archuleta will not be the best over and over again. And the judges will be honest, and tell him that. In turn, the fans get bored, and assume, he is safe, and begin to give their voting attention elsewhere. I called this same scenario out last season. LaKeisha was magnificent, on her first performance. Simon even made a statement, saying that the 23 contestants might as well go home. Unfortunately, for LaKeisha, she was never able to match her first “breakout” performance, and the disappointments tend to sway voters.
Sure it appears that the “boy wonder” has support now. “Arch Angels” … “ARCHies” … whatever you want to call his followers. But don’t be surprise to see his popularity falter. The winner usually, shows steady improvement. Develops into a polished singer. The formula of being the best in early rounds, and going “wire to wire”, just don’t happen. The IDOL Hollywood stage is not a speed bias surface. The fractions will take their toll.
David Archuleta’s future might be bright, but not as the next American IDOL.
February 28, 2008 at 4:25 pm
I agree with you 100 percent. He is a great kid and a good singer but the next idol? I am not so sure. To much pressure to live up to for the next few months!