“American Idol” season 7 runner-up David Archuleta‘s new EP “Earthly Delights” drops on August 15 and the singer is opening up about the meaning behind its title. “I’m leaving and doing the ‘bad’ things, the sensual things … and dating whoever it seems fit for me to regardless if they’re a guy or a girl,” he shared with Fox 32 Chicago.
Archuleta has undergone a serious personal evolution since appearing on “Idol” at the age of 16. In 2021, the performer came out as queer and left the Mormon church in which he was raised. “It was a very strong battle,” Archuleta explained. “As I came to embrace myself, I realized … I think this community that I’ve grown to love is not designed for people like me.”
Archuleta’s new music reflects his personal growth and how he is enjoying aspects of life that were once off-limits. “It’s kind of like giving into these ‘earthly delights’ and these pleasures and going out to dance at clubs or sing about more flirty or sexy things,” he shared.
David Archuleta’s New EP Reflects Other Parts of His Culture Too
Archuleta, who is of Honduran and Spanish descent, is excited about adding some Spanish flavor to his new music. His 2008 single “Crush” debuted at the No. 2 spot on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart, but it was a song he originally recorded in Spanish. His label explained that Latin music “wasn’t really in” at the time, which disappointed Archuleta.
“Now I’m able to get back in touch with it,” the singer said. “This is my era of just trying to just fully embrace everything that I am and Spanish is one of those things.”
And Archuleta is having a great time performing music that reflects his roots. “It’s really fun … you get flirtier when you sing in Spanish, I’ve learned … and when you dance it,” he shared.
What Else David Archuleta Has in Store
Aside from his upcoming EP, Archuleta has another new project that fans can look forward to. His memoir, “Devout” will be coming out February 17, 2026. The book will detail Archuleta’s journey growing up Mormon to competing on “American Idol” to loving and accepting his true self.
“‘It is a little on the heavier side,” Archuleta revealed, in case fans were expecting a breezy read. In the book he will discuss his attempts at living a traditional Mormon life, which included getting engaged three different times before coming out.
“I really just tried to do what I believed was the right thing,” the singer explained. “I still try to do what I feel is the right thing.”
Comments
David Archuleta Reveals the Deeper Meaning Behind ‘Earthly Delights’ EP