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Chords of Strength: A Memoir of Soul, Song and the Power of Perseverance
Singing sensation and American Idol favorite David Archuleta tells his inspiring personal story. Includes full-color photos!
A runner-up on American Idol and successful music artist, David Archuleta was named one of the "breakout stars of 2008" by Forbes magazine and landed the number two spot on the Billboard charts.
In Chords of Strength David shares his unexpected and inspiring journey, including how he overcame vocal cord paralysis to achieve his dream of being a singer. He reveals insecurities he felt about his voice-before he realized that he loved the way singing made him feel more than he disliked the way he sounded. In this personal memoir, David opens up about the strength he draws from his unshakable faith and unyielding family. He pays tribute to those who continue to inspire him and through their example help him believe in himself, his talent, and his abilities.
Intimate and uplifting, Chords of Strength allows a unique glimpse of the man behind the music and offers hope to anyone with a passion and a dream.
Watch a video of David Archuleta at the printing of his new book Chords of Strength. Watch a Video
A runner-up on American Idol and successful music artist, David Archuleta was named one of the "breakout stars of 2008" by Forbes magazine and landed the number two spot on the Billboard charts.
In Chords of Strength David shares his unexpected and inspiring journey, including how he overcame vocal cord paralysis to achieve his dream of being a singer. He reveals insecurities he felt about his voice-before he realized that he loved the way singing made him feel more than he disliked the way he sounded. In this personal memoir, David opens up about the strength he draws from his unshakable faith and unyielding family. He pays tribute to those who continue to inspire him and through their example help him believe in himself, his talent, and his abilities.
Intimate and uplifting, Chords of Strength allows a unique glimpse of the man behind the music and offers hope to anyone with a passion and a dream.
Watch a video of David Archuleta at the printing of his new book Chords of Strength. Watch a Video
256 pages, Hardcover
First published May 4, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
September 18, 2010
This is the best autobiography on the face of this planet people. David Archuleta is so shy on the outside, but when he writes it all down, he can be deep. In this book, he's full of wonderful things to say about following your dreams, overcomeing challenges, and gives you an inside scoop of what was going on through his mind during the American Idol madness. :) He is an amazing writer and very funny also! I recommend this book for everyone...young, old, people of every age...you ALL can learn something from this young but VERY wise boy! :) 5 STARS ABSOLUTELY! :) :)
June 13, 2010
"And remember, even if you can't sing, you can always plant a tree."
Oh, David.. lol...
I suppose I am kind of biased about this book because its two of my favorite things together. Books, and David Archuleta. You wouldn't believe how ecstatic I was to find out he was writing a book. Or if you know me, you probably can...
Anyway. In the book, David tells about his childhood, his journey on Star Search, suffering vocal paralysis, his American Idol journey, and then his life afterwards. Then the last two chapters that really don't tell any story, and im not entirely sure how to explain them. Hes talking about himself, and about everyone else at the same time, sort of.
I like how the book was written as well. It was written like a book at times, but at the same time, it written like a conversation. Like, if you were to talk to him, thats what he would say.
After reading the book, I also feel like i understood who he was as a person better. Which he says was one of his reasons for actually writing the book in many interviews, and multiple times through out the book as well. I also found it easy to relate to him (he mentions several times that he is a shy and introverted person, which I also am, and there are plenty of other things as well.)
There are also times when he is kind of random, talking about Pokemon, and randomly mentioning Hilary Duff being one of the celebrity judges on star search. And at the very end of the ook, the whole planting a tree thing.
Anyway, i loved the book. It made me smile a whole lot and was entertaining. I will eventually read it again, which I very seldomly do. It was good. :)
Anyway, i feel like im rambling.
Oh, David.. lol...
I suppose I am kind of biased about this book because its two of my favorite things together. Books, and David Archuleta. You wouldn't believe how ecstatic I was to find out he was writing a book. Or if you know me, you probably can...
Anyway. In the book, David tells about his childhood, his journey on Star Search, suffering vocal paralysis, his American Idol journey, and then his life afterwards. Then the last two chapters that really don't tell any story, and im not entirely sure how to explain them. Hes talking about himself, and about everyone else at the same time, sort of.
I like how the book was written as well. It was written like a book at times, but at the same time, it written like a conversation. Like, if you were to talk to him, thats what he would say.
After reading the book, I also feel like i understood who he was as a person better. Which he says was one of his reasons for actually writing the book in many interviews, and multiple times through out the book as well. I also found it easy to relate to him (he mentions several times that he is a shy and introverted person, which I also am, and there are plenty of other things as well.)
There are also times when he is kind of random, talking about Pokemon, and randomly mentioning Hilary Duff being one of the celebrity judges on star search. And at the very end of the ook, the whole planting a tree thing.
Anyway, i loved the book. It made me smile a whole lot and was entertaining. I will eventually read it again, which I very seldomly do. It was good. :)
Anyway, i feel like im rambling.
December 10, 2010
My main goal in reading this book was to find out if and what he talked about concerning the church. He dedicated nearly 2 whole chapters to that at the end of the book which I was really impressed by. He only mentioned the church by name once in the beginning and then was vague about some gospel elements, but I appreciated him talking about prayer and reading the scriptures. I am a pretty big fan of his, mostly because I saw him being such a positive role model to teen girls and boys alike. He is clean cut, a clean talker, etc. I was also really impressed when he expanded on his song choices from AI and in the future that he doesn't just want to sing cheesy love and breakup songs like everyone else, but that he wants to sing song that will inspire and lift people up. Good for him! Definitely written by a teenager, which was hard for me to keep going, but great to see how his fame is helping spread the gospel.
February 25, 2013
Though it was nice to see David's journey to what he is today, I feel that it was too early to write a memoir. Unless he makes another one when he comes home from his mission, then that memoir would be a good sequel to this one. (Maybe I just wanted him to talk more about the Philippines. hahaha)
August 20, 2010
I was so pleased that this memoir read so quickly and honestly. I felt like I got to sit down and have an open conversation with the kid for a couple of hours.
Sure, much of what he shares is stuff we all have felt and know anyway - not many new discoveries, but it was so refreshing to hear it from someone so young and candid who had reasons he could have felt differently and turned out differently.
His strength is a tribute to those who raise and support him, to a certain extent, but then must be also attributed to his own character. The choices he makes with how he shares his gift really resonate in his lifestyle and I'd imagine in his live concerts.
I'm going to see if the library has any of his recordings. I remember watching that season of American Idol and really being touched by most of his performances. After reading his memoir, I can see why I felt his music rather than just heard it.
I'm happy with how his story kind of broke down the myth of the cookie-cutter pattern in life that brings success. I was brought up thinking that the road to success was doing well in school, graduating, then doing well in college and graduating. I'm glad for David Archuleta's example of how a different path can still create a whole person.
It was fun to read his insight into the A.Idol competition and what it did to him. I like getting an inside peek at things.
I hope he really dedicates himself to learning composition and expanding his talent with music. He can really make something of himself and leave a lasting impression if he continues. Good for him! I'm glad to have read such an uplifting book about an uplifting person.
Sure, much of what he shares is stuff we all have felt and know anyway - not many new discoveries, but it was so refreshing to hear it from someone so young and candid who had reasons he could have felt differently and turned out differently.
His strength is a tribute to those who raise and support him, to a certain extent, but then must be also attributed to his own character. The choices he makes with how he shares his gift really resonate in his lifestyle and I'd imagine in his live concerts.
I'm going to see if the library has any of his recordings. I remember watching that season of American Idol and really being touched by most of his performances. After reading his memoir, I can see why I felt his music rather than just heard it.
I'm happy with how his story kind of broke down the myth of the cookie-cutter pattern in life that brings success. I was brought up thinking that the road to success was doing well in school, graduating, then doing well in college and graduating. I'm glad for David Archuleta's example of how a different path can still create a whole person.
It was fun to read his insight into the A.Idol competition and what it did to him. I like getting an inside peek at things.
I hope he really dedicates himself to learning composition and expanding his talent with music. He can really make something of himself and leave a lasting impression if he continues. Good for him! I'm glad to have read such an uplifting book about an uplifting person.
July 12, 2010
What I learned from this book is that David Archuleta is much more than an American Idol. He is a wonderful young man with his feet solidly planted in values and character. He does not seek popularity or wealth, but sings for the joy of singing and bringing happiness to others. He sings because he feels a great emotional connection to life through his music. He is a very spiritual person who prays to his Heavenly Father and listens and gives credit to God for his talent and thanks Him for his guidance and direction in his life. I felt the humility of David Archuleta through his simple words and story. I felt his connection to music, family, and his faith. I am more of a fan of his now than when I was rooting for him on his Anerican Idol journey. He is a special young man, and I am very proud of him. I listened to his Christmas album today with my mother and discovered again what a unique voice he has and what talent he has in making each song his own. Every song he sang was a musical treat with different vocal techniques, runs, styles, highs, lows, and full of his spirit and take on the song. I am impressed with his musicality as his young age. His music is uplifting and will bless those who listen. I am thankful to rediscover his music and learn more of his personal story through his sharing his life with us through this book. I recommend it to everyone.
March 6, 2011
Yes, the title is horribly cheesy, but the story is also a bit cheesy so I guess it fits. I'll share that I've never been a fan of David's (I don't dislike him either; my feelings are neutral). The beginning of the book especially reads like a teenager's diary. There are many common details about David's every day life that just aren't that interesting. He fed ducks bread and went rollerblading a lot. The most unusual part of his upbringing were all the opportunities that he had starting from a young age. Also, David reiterating his lack of self confidence got a little old.
I thought the middle part of the story where David told a little about behind the scenes of American Idol was the most interesting. The contestants go through so many pre-rounds of auditions with producers and other people before they even see the judges that there is no chance someone who can't sing would really get through that far. The show does play towards drama. Also, David had to get his first album out so fast after Idol that he was making it during the tour, because who knew how long he would be popular. All together, this book feels like something that David wrote for himself or perhaps his family, but it wasn't really geared towards a general audience. There was too much repetition and I got bogged down in the details of some parts that just got boring.
I thought the middle part of the story where David told a little about behind the scenes of American Idol was the most interesting. The contestants go through so many pre-rounds of auditions with producers and other people before they even see the judges that there is no chance someone who can't sing would really get through that far. The show does play towards drama. Also, David had to get his first album out so fast after Idol that he was making it during the tour, because who knew how long he would be popular. All together, this book feels like something that David wrote for himself or perhaps his family, but it wasn't really geared towards a general audience. There was too much repetition and I got bogged down in the details of some parts that just got boring.
March 16, 2013
I listend to the YouTube video of David Archuleta singing "Imagine" on the Idol TV show after reading Chords of Strength.
I recommend you buy this book and re-read it every so often.
David Archuleta is a real person: authentic and down-to-earth. My God: His Voice. You must listen to him sing.
I'll go on YouTube to listen to "Crush" and see if I want to buy his CD because he's billed as a pop star.
I regret I'm not a fan of the music on commercial radio right now so I don't know if I'll like David Archuleta's music if he's billed as a pop star. I will keep my mind open because his voice is like the voice of God: David Archuleta has a gift.
The section of the book toward the end and at the end is the best because the singer imparts life lessons and you ought to read this section and re-read it as often as the mood strikes you.
The quotes at the beginning of the chapters are magnificent.
Read the book: be inspired, because David Archuleta developed vocal chord paralysis and that didn't deter him from pursuing his dream to give his talent: use his voice to sing: to other people.
Imagine: you had a hard time and life could defeat you. Do you move forward and dare to risk achieving your life's goal, or do you give up?
You dare to dream. Then you do it.
I recommend you buy this book and re-read it every so often.
David Archuleta is a real person: authentic and down-to-earth. My God: His Voice. You must listen to him sing.
I'll go on YouTube to listen to "Crush" and see if I want to buy his CD because he's billed as a pop star.
I regret I'm not a fan of the music on commercial radio right now so I don't know if I'll like David Archuleta's music if he's billed as a pop star. I will keep my mind open because his voice is like the voice of God: David Archuleta has a gift.
The section of the book toward the end and at the end is the best because the singer imparts life lessons and you ought to read this section and re-read it as often as the mood strikes you.
The quotes at the beginning of the chapters are magnificent.
Read the book: be inspired, because David Archuleta developed vocal chord paralysis and that didn't deter him from pursuing his dream to give his talent: use his voice to sing: to other people.
Imagine: you had a hard time and life could defeat you. Do you move forward and dare to risk achieving your life's goal, or do you give up?
You dare to dream. Then you do it.
April 9, 2012
I knew this would be an amazing book even before it came out!!!!! I read it in a week and it totally blew my expectations!!!! David writes with such candid soul and honesty. His story is truly inspiring and I realized I think a lot like him in many ways. This book has definitely changed the way I look at things and was such a help to me. I know it will be a book that always stays close to my heart and I hope other people will be able to be touched by this wonderful person's words like I was.
Second time reading this book!!! Still just as awesome as the first time I read it!!!!!! Archie has such an amazing writing ability and pure story that I can relate to! Hope he continues to write more inspiring works of art!
Third time reading this book and still so inspired by those same words. David's whole outlook and insights into life are inspiring and so mature for his age. Every time I read this book it makes me want to be more like him.
Second time reading this book!!! Still just as awesome as the first time I read it!!!!!! Archie has such an amazing writing ability and pure story that I can relate to! Hope he continues to write more inspiring works of art!
Third time reading this book and still so inspired by those same words. David's whole outlook and insights into life are inspiring and so mature for his age. Every time I read this book it makes me want to be more like him.
June 12, 2010
Anyone who knows that I am an avid David Archuleta fan would have to assume that I would love this book, and you would be right. However, I don't love it because it was written by David, or because it is about his life thus far. I love it because it contains many inspirational golden nuggets of wisdom that I so need in my life right now. David may be young in age, but he has an old soul full of positive, spiritual energy.
I am currently rereading Chords of Strength with a highlighter in hand! This says a lot as I never reread a book, no matter how wonderful I may think it is. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of David's or anyone else who just wants to read a book that makes you feel good about all that you have and inspires you to follow your dreams.
I am currently rereading Chords of Strength with a highlighter in hand! This says a lot as I never reread a book, no matter how wonderful I may think it is. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of David's or anyone else who just wants to read a book that makes you feel good about all that you have and inspires you to follow your dreams.
November 17, 2012
I read it all over again..- few pages of the book's intro. I realized something and tears started to flow down my cheeks. It was indeed a great book!! :) Even intro has something to do with the inspiring moment.
He's the best artist you could ask for!! I have a copy of my own of this book and it's signed by him - and reading his book and telling us his side of story is just so amazing especially for a huge fan of him - it's just wonderful to receive and know truly of who he is as an artist and just an ordinary person. He did so many things just for his fans and I feel really lucky and I so much appreciate his giving back to us, fans and also through his music and everything! Thank you David!!
He's the best artist you could ask for!! I have a copy of my own of this book and it's signed by him - and reading his book and telling us his side of story is just so amazing especially for a huge fan of him - it's just wonderful to receive and know truly of who he is as an artist and just an ordinary person. He did so many things just for his fans and I feel really lucky and I so much appreciate his giving back to us, fans and also through his music and everything! Thank you David!!
February 26, 2013
Lots of praise and courage for David to write such a wonderful and truthful story about his life. He love for the gifts God gave him made him work through the pain and suffering of growing in the music business at such and early age and learning to deal with the heartache and rehabilitation of his vocal chords so he can continue using his gift. Such a reflective Autobiography for someone so young.
June 12, 2023
I thought it was really interesting and great to read about him and what led him to do American Idol. Also interesting and inspiring is how he stays grounded as a person and in his moral convictions. My only complaint is that he tends to ramble a bit, repeating ideas occasionally.As I recall from seeing him on Idol, he would do that during interviews as well haha.
May 15, 2012
Ok here is the truth... even though I am LDS and lived in Utah at the time of David being on Idol I was always a David Cook fan.. I saw this book at the $ store and thought ...why not.. I was happily surprised with this book. I enjoyed the growth and thoughts that David shared with us and I LOVED HOW HE LEFT OUT all the negativity and focused on the positive...GREAT BOOK!!!!
November 18, 2010
This is a memoir of David Archuleta who took 2nd place on American Idol last season. It was an interesting tale of the American Idol process. Not the best memoir, but the kid is only 20 and hasn't experienced much in life yet. He is very talented and seems to have a good head on his shoulders.
September 17, 2011
inspirational, and I adore David's maturity. I am and always be an ArchAngel. :)
March 18, 2013
I'm impressed with David's ability to overcome shyness and medical setbacks. He is gentle and kind, gifted musically and spiritually beyond his years.
September 24, 2014
Impressive & Truly Inspirational!
November 26, 2011
As a huge fan of David Archuleta, I love this autobiography book. He's awesome, no arguments. HAHA
Read
January 26, 2024What I walked away with? This young singer is a really sweet person. ✌️
July 20, 2011
The first word that came out of my mouth after I finished this autobiography? "Wow." David Archuleta's autobiography is great. But before I start talking about his book, I'd like to talk a bit about my experience that led to me buying this book.
Readers may skip the next three paragraphs to get to my real review.
So, David Archuleta has come back to the Philippines for the third time! He held a concert in Araneta Coliseum just last Monday- July 18, 2011. I was excited to see him again. In reality, it was my sister who really wanted to go to his concert, but hey. I wanted to see him, too. I was really amazed with his performance. He was warm and friendly, he didn't lip-sync(!!!) and his gratitude for his Filipino fans was really evident. There was so much energy in the air that night. It was really a concert to remember.
The next day, my mom surprised by saying that we could go to his book signing event after classes. My sister and I were ecstatic. The event would take place from 2PM-5PM in a venue that was an hour and a half away from our school. When the 3:30PM dismissal bell rang, we hurried to the car, and drove to the venue. On the way, we talked about David-related things: the concert the previous night, what to say when we saw David, how to act around him, and etc. All in all, we were just very excited. When we finally reached the venue, we learned that David had left 3 minutes earlier. We were crushed and miserable. I wasn't that big a fan of David, but I was really very devastated. It was a missed opportunity. Until now, I'm still holding regrets about missing him. I still wonder what I could have done faster, so as to have caught him. It was a really heartbreaking event.
Although we missed him, we still got to buy two copies of David Archuleta's "Chords of Strength: A Memoir of Soul, Song, and the Power of Perseverance". (A book served as a 'ticket' for the signing, you see.) And let me say this: Even if I didn't get to see David, this book softened the blow, seeing as it was really a great buy.
Let me just say that I was not expecting an autobiography (by a singer, no less!) to be good, but hey- David proved me wrong! To be honest, I wasn't even expecting to finish this book. Other biographies that I've read usually just talk about plain old facts, but this one was different. It was very relatable. I think what attracted me most to David's autobiography was the fact that he was just so open. It made me feel like I was actually having a heart-to-heart talk with him.
David talks about many things and is very open about them. He talks about his family, his childhood, his struggles, his "American Idol" experience, and many more! I found myself genuinely interested in everything that was written. However, towards the end, when he started talking more and more about his faith, I found myself wavering. Maybe it was because I couldn't relate on a spiritual level. But it was still nice learning his values and beliefs.
This book made me see David Archuleta, not just as a great singer, but as a real and relatable person. I believe that this book is really a great buy. Before reading the book, I wasn't that big a fan of David's, but now, I feel like I respect him more and I feel like I want to know more about him as a person. My favorite chapters were the first ones, where he talked about his personal life. But even when he started talking about how his career started, we get to learn about his thoughts. That was nice. I felt like this was a really generous autobiography. I do want more, but this will have to do. For now. Thank you for sharing your story with us, David.
Readers may skip the next three paragraphs to get to my real review.
So, David Archuleta has come back to the Philippines for the third time! He held a concert in Araneta Coliseum just last Monday- July 18, 2011. I was excited to see him again. In reality, it was my sister who really wanted to go to his concert, but hey. I wanted to see him, too. I was really amazed with his performance. He was warm and friendly, he didn't lip-sync(!!!) and his gratitude for his Filipino fans was really evident. There was so much energy in the air that night. It was really a concert to remember.
The next day, my mom surprised by saying that we could go to his book signing event after classes. My sister and I were ecstatic. The event would take place from 2PM-5PM in a venue that was an hour and a half away from our school. When the 3:30PM dismissal bell rang, we hurried to the car, and drove to the venue. On the way, we talked about David-related things: the concert the previous night, what to say when we saw David, how to act around him, and etc. All in all, we were just very excited. When we finally reached the venue, we learned that David had left 3 minutes earlier. We were crushed and miserable. I wasn't that big a fan of David, but I was really very devastated. It was a missed opportunity. Until now, I'm still holding regrets about missing him. I still wonder what I could have done faster, so as to have caught him. It was a really heartbreaking event.
Although we missed him, we still got to buy two copies of David Archuleta's "Chords of Strength: A Memoir of Soul, Song, and the Power of Perseverance". (A book served as a 'ticket' for the signing, you see.) And let me say this: Even if I didn't get to see David, this book softened the blow, seeing as it was really a great buy.
Let me just say that I was not expecting an autobiography (by a singer, no less!) to be good, but hey- David proved me wrong! To be honest, I wasn't even expecting to finish this book. Other biographies that I've read usually just talk about plain old facts, but this one was different. It was very relatable. I think what attracted me most to David's autobiography was the fact that he was just so open. It made me feel like I was actually having a heart-to-heart talk with him.
David talks about many things and is very open about them. He talks about his family, his childhood, his struggles, his "American Idol" experience, and many more! I found myself genuinely interested in everything that was written. However, towards the end, when he started talking more and more about his faith, I found myself wavering. Maybe it was because I couldn't relate on a spiritual level. But it was still nice learning his values and beliefs.
This book made me see David Archuleta, not just as a great singer, but as a real and relatable person. I believe that this book is really a great buy. Before reading the book, I wasn't that big a fan of David's, but now, I feel like I respect him more and I feel like I want to know more about him as a person. My favorite chapters were the first ones, where he talked about his personal life. But even when he started talking about how his career started, we get to learn about his thoughts. That was nice. I felt like this was a really generous autobiography. I do want more, but this will have to do. For now. Thank you for sharing your story with us, David.
February 2, 2023
I remember first hearing about David Archuleta a couple years ago. He was on the seventh season of American Idol. Unfortunately, we did not get Fox 11 that year because of a failed deal with my cable provider and the channel. Thankfully, I was able to see his performances courtesy of YouTube. his rendition of 'Imagine' , the first performance, is still the most moving performance I have ever heard in my entire life. The only person to ever move me otherwise on Idol was Kelly Clarkson.
He starts his story telling us about his childhood and describing his family life. Appearing on shows i've sadly never even heard of aside from Star Search, his journey to musical destiny was filled with some potholes, like his heartbreaking vocal chord paralysis. He describes his endurance and determination to believe in his Faith to lead his way and his determination saw him through.
I was taken aback to read about his self esteem issues. I mean, I realize he's human and more than a pretty face, but I am still surprised that he had self esteem issues when I've always respected him. Be that as it may, it doesn't change my respect for him except to increase it. I'm glad his editors and publisher's didn't alter his presentation of his personality. It's very true that when someone becomes famous or at the very least, in the limelight, there's many cases where the person becomes unrecognizable.It was a breath of fresh air to get an idea of what kind of guy he really is. The best part is that he didn't write this to be a self-promoter. He wrote it as a way to inspire people.
He talks about when he met the contestants on American Idol Season 1 and I remember seeing the clip on YouTube, which brought back memories of when I first discovered Kelly Clarkson. By far Kelly and David are my top two favorite Idols. His story is inspiring and interesting to dive into his account of his life. I was both happy and disappointed that the press was wrong when someone decided to say that his father was a controlling father. Not only is that not even true, I'm disappointed because it's another revelation that you can't believe everything you read in the press. Despite this, he remains positive and implores us to do the same. Increasing my respect for him once again.
My notes:
September 13th, 2011:
Pg 71, 27.73%: "I literally started getting wet eyes as David describes his trip to L.A. without even knowing he was heading to the finale of American Idol Season one. Brought back memories of when I first discovered Kelly Clarkson, one of my favourite artists. Amazing story so far!"
Pg. 110, 42.97%: "This book is truly bringing back memories for me of when David was on Idol. I remember all the performances and I can't wait until he talks about singing 'Imagine.' That was the most moving performance I have ever heard in my life!"
September 14th, 2011:
Pg 153, 59.77%: "David's positive attitude despite his (to my surprise) low self esteem. The way he views competition and diversity just blows my mind and opens my eyes."
He starts his story telling us about his childhood and describing his family life. Appearing on shows i've sadly never even heard of aside from Star Search, his journey to musical destiny was filled with some potholes, like his heartbreaking vocal chord paralysis. He describes his endurance and determination to believe in his Faith to lead his way and his determination saw him through.
I was taken aback to read about his self esteem issues. I mean, I realize he's human and more than a pretty face, but I am still surprised that he had self esteem issues when I've always respected him. Be that as it may, it doesn't change my respect for him except to increase it. I'm glad his editors and publisher's didn't alter his presentation of his personality. It's very true that when someone becomes famous or at the very least, in the limelight, there's many cases where the person becomes unrecognizable.It was a breath of fresh air to get an idea of what kind of guy he really is. The best part is that he didn't write this to be a self-promoter. He wrote it as a way to inspire people.
He talks about when he met the contestants on American Idol Season 1 and I remember seeing the clip on YouTube, which brought back memories of when I first discovered Kelly Clarkson. By far Kelly and David are my top two favorite Idols. His story is inspiring and interesting to dive into his account of his life. I was both happy and disappointed that the press was wrong when someone decided to say that his father was a controlling father. Not only is that not even true, I'm disappointed because it's another revelation that you can't believe everything you read in the press. Despite this, he remains positive and implores us to do the same. Increasing my respect for him once again.
My notes:
September 13th, 2011:
Pg 71, 27.73%: "I literally started getting wet eyes as David describes his trip to L.A. without even knowing he was heading to the finale of American Idol Season one. Brought back memories of when I first discovered Kelly Clarkson, one of my favourite artists. Amazing story so far!"
Pg. 110, 42.97%: "This book is truly bringing back memories for me of when David was on Idol. I remember all the performances and I can't wait until he talks about singing 'Imagine.' That was the most moving performance I have ever heard in my life!"
September 14th, 2011:
Pg 153, 59.77%: "David's positive attitude despite his (to my surprise) low self esteem. The way he views competition and diversity just blows my mind and opens my eyes."
October 27, 2011
This was a book I had been waiting for months to finally get my hands on a copy. It is David Archuleta’s book, Chords of Strength. The book itself compensates for its rather corny title. Some people have said, well, David is certainly a singer, not a writer, but I think the story he tells and the inspiration he brings, it doesn’t matter how horrible his writing may have been. I was surprised myself when I found out that he had even written a book to begin with, but I was excited to finally read it. The main topic of this book is his experience as a child singing, and being on Star Search and American Idol. But he really has some inspirational twists in it as well. I almost didn’t know that he had all that in him. For as, almost little he went through, he really gained a lot of experience. He has a lot more knowledge than the average boy his age does and writing a book was a wonderful way to share his spirit of perseverance. I would suggest this book to ANYONE, especially any of the fans of his music. This book made me absolutely love and look up to David Archuleta even more than before, even after his amazing albums that have forever changed my life. It was slow at times, when he kept on dragging on about the American Idol competition, but I learned a lot about his childhood and many other experiences he had that I had never known about. I was almost just as surprised while reading the book as when I found out he wrote a book. I never wanted to put it down, even though sometimes I didn’t really care what he was talking about, everything else compensated for it. If I could give this book 26 stars out of 5 I would.
February 18, 2011
I really enjoyed this book.
I've loved David Archuleta since I first saw him auditioning on American Idol. He has a wonderful voice with a humble attitude and is just an all-around great person.
So I was glad to have the chance to get to know David better, in his own words. I loved the way this book went through his life and ancestry in a nice organized way, from baby to current status as a "pop star." David's sweet personality and deep spiritual faith shine in this book, and I love how courageous he was to share his beliefs with the world--when it certainly isn't the most popular thing to do.
The pictures were great, and even though specific details of David's American Idol experience were few (a few chapters were devoted to it but in a general way), I was satisfied. I'm so glad David has been able to keep himself who he is and not let himself be changed by a celebrity status or lifestyle.
This is an inspiring, clean, and enjoyable book, and I recommend it to anyone (my 11-year-old daughter's even reading it).
I've loved David Archuleta since I first saw him auditioning on American Idol. He has a wonderful voice with a humble attitude and is just an all-around great person.
So I was glad to have the chance to get to know David better, in his own words. I loved the way this book went through his life and ancestry in a nice organized way, from baby to current status as a "pop star." David's sweet personality and deep spiritual faith shine in this book, and I love how courageous he was to share his beliefs with the world--when it certainly isn't the most popular thing to do.
The pictures were great, and even though specific details of David's American Idol experience were few (a few chapters were devoted to it but in a general way), I was satisfied. I'm so glad David has been able to keep himself who he is and not let himself be changed by a celebrity status or lifestyle.
This is an inspiring, clean, and enjoyable book, and I recommend it to anyone (my 11-year-old daughter's even reading it).
November 30, 2011
Chords of Strength : A Memior of Soul, Song and Power of Perseverance by David Archuleta is an inspring book where David shares his unexpected and moving journey as a young boy and as a teenager. It inlcudes how he overcame vocal cord paralysis to achieve his dream of being a singer. He also tells about the insecurities that he had about his voice (he did not like the way it sounded), before he realized that he loved singing and the way that it made him feel. Through this memoir David shares with us how he relys and recieves strength from his faith and from his loving family and he pays respect to those who have inspired him and helped him to believe in himself and the wonderful talent that he has been blessed with.
I felt like this book was very inspiring and uplifting. It can help young adults to know that you can do what you want to do if you set your mind to it. Through David sharing the trials he went through to be able to share his talent it gives you the desire to do the same for yourself with your talents. Very inspirational.
I felt like this book was very inspiring and uplifting. It can help young adults to know that you can do what you want to do if you set your mind to it. Through David sharing the trials he went through to be able to share his talent it gives you the desire to do the same for yourself with your talents. Very inspirational.
Read
September 21, 2012Singing sensation and American Idolfavorite David Archuleta tells his inspiring personal story. Includes full-color photos! A runner-up on American Idol and successful music artist, David Archuleta was named one of the "breakout stars of 2008" by Forbesmagazine and landed the number two spot on the Billboard charts. In Chords of StrengthDavid shares his unexpected and inspiring journey, including how he overcame vocal cord paralysis to achieve his dream of being a singer. He reveals insecurities he felt about his voice-before he realized that he loved the way singing made him feel more than he disliked the way he sounded. In this personal memoir, David opens up about the strength he draws from his unshakable faith and unyielding family. He pays tribute to those who continue to inspire him and through their example help him believe in himself, his talent, and his abilities. Intimate and uplifting, Chords of Strengthallows a unique glimpse of the man behind the music and offers hope to anyone with a passion and a dream.
June 26, 2015
This book reads like a personal journal and I feel honored and grateful that David shared it! It inspired me, an LDS piano/voice teacher, choral director & singer, many years his senior, to continue going forward in faith with a performance, in spite of my own "technical difficulties".
I'm amazed how quickly the youth of today, learn the lessons of a lifetime! Taking advantage of opportunities to overcome illness & insecurity, by sharing God- given talents, as a gift to others, DOES allow access to The Holy Spirit, to directly communicate the words of a song more compassionately, with a miraculous voice, resulting in successful performances!
Another lesson learned: The only way "they" are ever going to stop requiring work on Sunday, is to have faith to say, "NO", like the athlete said to The Olympic Committee, in the non-fiction movie, "Chariots of Fire"! As people put the Lord first, the Lord will continue to provide a way. He miraculously preserved Sundays for me even when the vote was 24 to 1 against it!
Congratulations to David & family!
I'm amazed how quickly the youth of today, learn the lessons of a lifetime! Taking advantage of opportunities to overcome illness & insecurity, by sharing God- given talents, as a gift to others, DOES allow access to The Holy Spirit, to directly communicate the words of a song more compassionately, with a miraculous voice, resulting in successful performances!
Another lesson learned: The only way "they" are ever going to stop requiring work on Sunday, is to have faith to say, "NO", like the athlete said to The Olympic Committee, in the non-fiction movie, "Chariots of Fire"! As people put the Lord first, the Lord will continue to provide a way. He miraculously preserved Sundays for me even when the vote was 24 to 1 against it!
Congratulations to David & family!
April 7, 2011
This is an autobiography of David Archuleta. He talks about the experiences he had growing up which have ultimately led to his new-found fame as a singer. He had some problems with his vocal chords,which he was able to overcome. Things weren't always easy for him, especially with him being so young while a contestant on American Idol. This book includes several photographs of him both recently and growing up.
I liked this book. I'm a nerd, but I love his music and have been to one of his concerts, which is why I wanted to read the book. I liked that he always has stayed a good kid, and fame hasn't messed him up yet, which it hopefully won't ever. I could tell that he was the one that actually wrote it, because it sounded like it was coming from a 19-year-old boy, which it was.
I liked this book. I'm a nerd, but I love his music and have been to one of his concerts, which is why I wanted to read the book. I liked that he always has stayed a good kid, and fame hasn't messed him up yet, which it hopefully won't ever. I could tell that he was the one that actually wrote it, because it sounded like it was coming from a 19-year-old boy, which it was.
June 3, 2013
First off, Id like to say that Im a big fan of David Archuleta and I was extremely happy when I got the copy of this memoir. It felt like talking to a friend (cheesy, but if you're a fan you'll understand me). He's down to earth and I admire his devotion for his church. His struggles to keep his dream alive, in spite of his illness, is inspiring. It is noticeable that it is written by a teenager but David is a singer not a writer and as a fan i commend him for giving the us the opportunity to get to know him (even though he, himself, admits that hes not good with words). The best part of this book is learning that David is a potterhead too :))
July 19, 2015
*3.5*
FINALLY FINISHED WITH CHORDS OF STRENGTH!!!!
Being a HUGE, LIKE REALLY HUGE (that's what she said), fan of David Archuleta, i was ecstatic to pick up his memoir. Now that i've completed it, i'm not sure whether i enjoyed it or not. At times, i was fascinated by his life events, the powerful quotes, and the gorgeous format of the book (IT HAS COLOURED PICTURES AND JK ROWLING QUOTES LIKE HOW COULD YOU NOT WANT THIS???), but at times, i felt bored and had to force myself to read.
Also, David mentions God and relying on Him for strength to carry on, but i found this hard to connect to. I felt that had i had some connection to God going into this memoir, i would've enjoyed it more.
FINALLY FINISHED WITH CHORDS OF STRENGTH!!!!
Being a HUGE, LIKE REALLY HUGE (that's what she said), fan of David Archuleta, i was ecstatic to pick up his memoir. Now that i've completed it, i'm not sure whether i enjoyed it or not. At times, i was fascinated by his life events, the powerful quotes, and the gorgeous format of the book (IT HAS COLOURED PICTURES AND JK ROWLING QUOTES LIKE HOW COULD YOU NOT WANT THIS???), but at times, i felt bored and had to force myself to read.
Also, David mentions God and relying on Him for strength to carry on, but i found this hard to connect to. I felt that had i had some connection to God going into this memoir, i would've enjoyed it more.
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