After five transformative years away from the road, David Archuleta is back—louder, freer, and more unapologetically himself than ever. The former American Idol finalist, known for his soaring voice and heartfelt ballads, is stepping into a bold new era with his “Earthly Delights” tour, stopping in Philadelphia on Friday, October 17 at The Foundry. But this isn’t the David you remember from 2008. This is David, unfiltered. David, queer. David, radiant with the joy of liberation and dancing his way through it.

With the release of the Earthly Delights (Deluxe Edition) EP, Archuleta invites fans into his most intimate and expansive creative space yet. From sensual bops like “Crème Brulée” to emotionally raw tracks like “Hell Together,” this project is more than a musical comeback—it’s a declaration of identity.

We caught up with David ahead of his Philly stop to talk queer freedom, festival energy, guilty pleasures, and what fans can expect from this electrifying new chapter.

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“Clubs, festivals and raves have been a place of community for me.”

Q: You’ve talked about embracing your “earthly delights” and living authentically as a queer man. How has your queerness changed the way you approach music and performance? A lot of queer people in Philly find community at clubs, raves, and festivals. You’ve said dancing and festivals inspired you — what does that sense of queer joy and freedom mean to you on stage?

David: Clubs, festivals and raves have been a place of community for me. Having a place where you can escape for a moment, connect with everyone around you, regardless of what different backgrounds you may come from. It’s a beautiful feeling. It feels liberating, and the music and rhythm connects everybody there. Dance and music has that power so I’ve tried to incorporate that more into my own shows and performances. The things that lift my mood.

Q: Philly’s stop is on October 17th at The Foundry. What can Philly fans expect from the live show — any surprises or songs you’re most excited to perform here?

David: I do a mix of old songs and new songs primarily from my Earthly Delights project. I have dancers with me along with a band so it’s more of a full show than anything I’ve done before. We have a lot of fun up there! It’s a great team to work with. I also do covers and change it up depending on the day.

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“I hope they feel like they’re not alone.”

Q: Many queer fans see themselves in your journey of questioning faith and embracing authenticity. What message do you hope they take away from your music right now?

David: I hope they feel like they’re not alone in the moments of transition. Transitions can feel lonely and isolating when you don’t have your community built yet going through the process. I feel like my shows have been a place where a lot of people can feel some comfort and belonging even in that time of discovery and shifting things like your friend groups and whatever circle of people around you, your personal beliefs, sense of purpose, values etc.

Q: You’ve called this your “sexy era” and said you’re leaning into pleasure and vulnerability — how does it feel to step into that space after years of holding back?

David: It’s something new and exciting. It feels like an essence of being human.

Q: What’s the most freeing moment you’ve had on the dance floor?

David: I will never forget my first rave. I went to Countdown NYE in Southern California and saw deadmau5 live for my first time after being a fan of his since being a teenager. Hearing “Moar Ghosts n Stuff” in a huge crowd of people dancing and having a good time, me dancing along, was a pretty freeing experience.

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Crème Brulée, Cheesesteaks, and Confessions

Q: Philly is home to cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and Tastykakes. What’s your guilty-pleasure comfort food on tour — and will you be taste-testing any local favorites?

David: Oo a soft pretzel sounds pretty fire! I’ll definitely be getting a Philly cheesesteak while I’m there, and it’d be prov wit for me. Always on the lookout for other places on Yelp or Google in the area we’re in. When we’re not in a going out mood I will say a PB&J always does the trick for me.

Q: You’ve done pop, ballads, gospel-inspired tracks, even EDM influences — what genre do you secretly want to try next that might surprise people?

David: I would really like to do some more Latin inspired tracks. Not sure if that’s a surprise but it’s just what I have on my mind. I would also like to do more R&B inspired music.

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The Earthly Delights Tour: A Love Letter to Self-Discovery

The “Earthly Delights” Tour is more than a showcase of new songs—it’s an immersive experience in queer liberation. With a full band, dancers, cover surprises, and a high-voltage emotional spectrum, Archuleta’s live show blends intimacy with infectious energy. Expect to hear favorites from the EP including the sexy slow-burn “Fade to Black,” the upbeat “Inside Out,” and of course, the now-viral “Crème Brulée.”

It’s clear that David Archuleta isn’t just singing anymore—he’s storytelling. He’s healing. He’s reclaiming. Whether you’ve followed him since American Idol or are discovering him through his latest queer anthems, this tour is a full-circle moment worth witnessing.

Tickets for the Philly show are still available—don’t miss your chance to see a pop icon reborn.

🗓 Date: Friday, October 17
📍 Venue: The Foundry, Philadelphia
🎟 Tickets: Available now (with VIP Meet & Greet Packages!)

From missionary to music festival, from closeted teen to queer icon, David Archuleta is living proof that you can rewrite your narrative, one note—and one dance floor—at a time.


Follow David:
Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Spotify, Twitter
Website: www.davidarchuleta.com

Get ready, Philly. Your favorite queer angel has found his wings.