David Archuleta Shares How His Music Has Evolved Since Coming Out as Queer

“American Idol” season 7 runner-up David Archuleta is opening up about his new music and his personal evolution since coming out in 2021. Archuleta’s new single “Crème Brulée” reached 5 million streams within a few months of its release, and the singer will drop a brand new EP, “Earthly Delights” in August 2025. 

During an appearance on “California Live,” Archuleta explained how his new music, his first in 5 years, differs from his previous releases. He talked about his 2020 album “Therapy Sessions,” saying, “…it was all in my head, like I was so stuck there.” 

Now Archuleta is going for a much different, more lighthearted vibe. “…I just wanna get in touch with my body, feel confident in who I am, and be flirty…I’m like a late bloomer for that,” the singer revealed.

David Archuleta’s Personal Evolution

Archuleta reflected on how performing at the 2025 Utah Pride Festival felt, given that he grew up struggling with his sexuality as a Mormon in Salt Lake City. “I’m like, ‘oh, this is so sweet,’ and you don’t have to be afraid of who you are if you’re queer or part of the LGBTQ+ community.”

Archleta’s new music reflects who he truly is, both as a person and a performer. Certainly much more so than his first single that he released on the heels of his “American Idol” fame in 2008. “I was singing ‘Crush’ since I was 17 years old and I could never relate to it…then I came out and I’m like, ‘oh, I get it! This is what a crush feels like,” Archuleta shared.

A Hopeful Message for Fans

The singer recalled how difficult it was growing up without being able to fully embrace his sexual identity. Archuleta referred to Utah as “the place where I grew up but also fought most of my life to try and be straight and always failed.” 

His message for those facing similar struggles was compassionate and kind. “I’ve been there,” Archuleta said. “You may have been told all your life you’re a way that you’re not supposed to be. And what I’ve learned is ‘what if it is okay for me to be who I am?’ And what if it’s not something I’m not supposed to fix?” 

Archuleta’s “Earthy Delights” tour kicks off in September 2025, and his new perspective shines through in his songs. “Let people have a fun time and be loose and lighthearted with music,” he says was the mindset that inspired “Crème Brulée.”