By HQ
David Archuleta first captured hearts worldwide at 17 with his soaring vocals and wide-eyed sincerity on American Idol. But his recent evolution into a fiercely honest, soul-baring pop artist is nothing short of inspiring. Now 34, the multi-platinum singer is creating some of the most daring music of his career—an unfiltered and emotionally fearless body of work that reflects his personal growth, identity, and newfound creative freedom.
Fresh off winning the 2024 GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Breakthrough Music Artist and announcing his forthcoming Earthly Delights EP, Archuleta’s recent releases—like the achingly powerful “Hell Together” and the pure pop confection “Crème Brûlée”—mark a clear transformation: one that intertwines truth, liberation, and a deeply human kind of joy.
Photo by Ryan Welch
In this exclusive conversation, he opens up about his faith journey, family, artistic rebirth, and what it truly means to live out loud.
1. “Hell Together” is such a powerful title and concept. What was going through your mind when you sat down to write that song?
I was thinking about my mom and the journey she went through personally and religiously to support her son. I know it wasn’t an easy thing for her. I also thought about my own journey—after loving my religion so much, trying to help people understand how hard it is to leave a community you’ve loved your whole life. My mom making that same decision meant the world to me, and I wanted to capture that. The other writers—Ryan Nealon, Sam DeRosa, and Jordan Sherman—did an amazing job helping me convey that.
2. You’ve described the conversation with your mother as a turning point in your life. How has that moment shaped your relationship with faith and family today?
It helped me realize that while it took my mom some time to come around, I didn’t need that approval to make the decision that felt right for me. I had spent my life trying to make others happy. It was time to choose myself. That said, having her support now is incredibly meaningful. Stepping away from religion also taught me that I don’t need it to feel safety, community, or purpose.
3. You first came out in 2021. How has embracing your identity changed the way you approach songwriting and performing?
I feel like I’ve become bolder—especially now that I’m in what I call my “flirty era” with songs like “Crème Brûlée.” It’s something new, but it’s also very fun for me.
4. From “Crush” to “Crème Brûlée,” your music has evolved so much. How would you describe this new era of your sound?
It’s grown up with me. I started making music as a teenager, and now I’m in my 30s. I’m more in touch with myself—my body, my personality. I’ve been through more, and I’ve thought more deeply about life. It’s a journey of being human: flaws, mistakes, joy, and lessons.
Photos by Irvin Rivera
5. Winning the 2024 GLAAD Media Award must’ve been meaningful. What did that recognition represent for you personally?
Honestly, I was surprised! But it’s really nice to be recognized by your own community for the growth you’ve experienced as a person and artist.
6. You’ve been exploring dance culture, raves, and festivals. What role does that community play in your healing and self-expression?
Coming from a religion built on community, letting that go felt isolating. The rave community has been incredible. They love music and dance, but also respect who you are and where you’re at in life. It’s a beautiful, freeing experience—so different from what I grew up with.
7. You’ve said dancing helped unlock a new kind of creativity. Do you see yourself experimenting more with performance and visuals in the future?
Yes! I’ll actually be playing with that more on my upcoming Earthly Delights tour starting in September.
8. You spent two years as a missionary during your peak fame. Looking back, how did that shape your understanding of purpose?
It taught me that happiness and purpose don’t come from fame, money, or attention. You can be fulfilled in quiet moments, too. It’s not about what others think—it’s about feeling centered within yourself.
9. You’ve performed all over the world—from Asia to the Middle East. How do international audiences connect differently with your music?
International audiences seem to appreciate artists for the long haul. In the U.S., the focus is often on the next big thing. I love when people support you even when you’re not at your peak. I also enjoy learning about their cultures, music, and history—it gives me new perspectives.
Photo by Shaun Vadella
10. Your upcoming Earthly Delights EP is your first in five years. Was there a specific theme you were aiming for?
I wanted it to feel indulgent—emotionally and artistically. It’s about embracing the parts of myself I was once afraid of: my sexuality, my body, my queerness. It’s about seeing myself fully and loving without fear. I hope it encourages others to look into places they once avoided and find beauty there.
11. As you grow into your most authentic self, what’s the core message you hope fans take from your music today?
That there’s beauty in self-discovery and growth. That it’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them. I hope they celebrate their own victories—big or small—just like I do.
12. Lastly, you’re heading out on a new North American tour this fall. What can fans expect from the new show?
Fans can expect a fun, flirty side of David—but also the sweetness and innocence I’ve always carried with me. It’ll be a blend of sexy, emotional, and uplifting. I hope everyone who comes feels the joy of how far we’ve all come in life.
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Photo by Yising Kao