David Archuleta Channels George Michael in Latest “Freedom”

February 12, 2025
ALEXANDER

David Archuleta Channels George Michael in Latest "Freedom"

Well, our American Idol twunk crush David Archuleta is growing up before our very eyes. In the past couple of years, he has been very open about exploring his sexuality and grappling with religion, and he came out as a non-full-time bottom. We have always thought he was adorable ever since his appearance on the 7th season of American Idol. As a runner-up for his season, he has gone on to sell chart-topping singles and albums, and has sold out at performances everywhere he goes. Lately, he has been popping up a lot in West Hollywood. (Hold please as we check Grindr.) Last week, he showed up at The Abbey to perform his newest single, "Freedom," live. Of course, we were there to watch him in action. "Freedom" is his take on the song made famous by George Michael in 1990, the year that Archuleta was born.

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David released in a statement: “When I came out, George’s music took on a whole new meaning for me. I could feel him breaking out through his music that I craved to experience myself. It was like a motion helping me forward in my own journey. To honor that step ahead, I’m covering his song 'Freedom' which again I can relate to so much. 'Heaven knows I was just a young boy, didn’t know what I wanted to be.' Being in front of millions as a teenager on TV to now having to reshape who I am and what that means for me in the public eye, and hopefully sharing that spirit of George with today’s generation.”

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Archuleta has been compared with George Michael many times and even performed Elton John and George Michael's “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” on American Idol's season 7 finale. George Michael even made a surprise appearance.

Two years ago, Archuleta was asked to induct George Michael into Project Angel Food's "Path of Angeles" star dedication ceremony in Hollywood, at which time David remarked, "George Michael shattered barriers and defied stereotypes. His honesty became a beacon of hope for countless members of our community yearning for acceptance in a society that often dictated our identities for us.”

Archuleta is certainly coming into his own and finding his own freedom. He was all smiles and dance moves while surrounded by fans and his entourage at The Abbey. Lance Bass also stopped by to join the fun.