David Archuleta - Hell Together (Official Music Video)
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- Опубліковано 25 кві 2024
- The official music video for "Hell Together" by David Archuleta.
Streaming now on all platforms: orcd.co/helltogether
I am very excited to share this video with all of you. This is a really special song for me. It was inspired by a very special person in my life. My mom. I was touched by her love that she showed to me as her son. Even though she didn’t understand my reasons for the life transitions I had of coming out and leaving our church at first, her willingness to understand the struggles of coming out as a queer person in the midst of a conservative community is not an easy one and I was inspired by her and other moms who faced a fear of leaving all they knew to show love and courage for their kids. I don’t think there’s greater love than that.
Starring: David Archuleta & Olivia Cava
Directed by: Lily Judge
Cinematography by: Ryan Kerr
Choreography by: Olivia Cava
Edited by: Lily Judge
1st Asst. Camera: Kenji Bennett
Steadicam Operator: Luke Dyra
Gaffer: Patrick Hyatt
Key Grip: Jonas Fischer
Best Grip: Lyle Michos
Best Electric: Nareh Dovlatyan
Swing: Paloma Ronquillo
Hair & Make-Up Artist: Joseph Adivari
Stylist: Andrew Philip Nguyen
Styling Asst.: Cynthia Pham
Color by: Ryan Kerr
BTS Photographer: Lucas Markman
Production Asst.: Ellie Jackson
Associate Producers: We Make Movies
Location: The Cosmic Church LA
Insurance Services Provided by: Irene Quintero - Momentous Insurance Brokerage, A Marsh McLennan Agency Company
Written by: Ryan Nealon, Sam DeRosa, Jordan Sherman, and David Archuleta
Producer: Jordan Sherman
Mixed by: Squids
Mastered by: Squids
I am very excited to share this video with all of you. This is a really special song for me. It was inspired by a very special person in my life. My mom. I was touched by her love that she showed to me as her son. Even though she didn’t understand my reasons for the life transitions I had of coming out and leaving our church at first, her willingness to understand the struggles of coming out as a queer person in the midst of a conservative community is not an easy one and I was inspired by her and other moms who faced a fear of leaving all they knew to show love and courage for their kids. I don’t think there’s greater love than that.
I hope it pays tribute to anyone else who’s had the courage to make the changes they’ve needed in their life to improve and learn to love themselves or love their misunderstood loved ones. And if you were left alone without that love and support you needed, then this song is for you. If you’ve been told you’re going to hell for being queer or for leaving your faith too, then we’ll go to hell together. 🔥❤
Thank you for sharing your story and beautiful music with us.
Thank you for this video and song. As someone who is queer and is still struggling to find his place in the world I really appreciate this
Beautiful Dave. Always like you, glad that you are happier, living, and loving your life.
Your music made me understand that the true LOVE is not going to heaven together but renouncing the "heaven" to support your family or friend. This is the True LOVE ❣️❣️❣️
Anyway, after reading ancient gods, religion and politics history I understand that there's no HELL 😅 It is all misprinted lies to control us.
And those of us who are straight allies, we will go to Hell together ❤️ anyone struggling, I hope you find your loving and supportive family elsewhere and please hang on, you ARE loved
I saw my son walk away from the church, but I struggled so much with it. I was one of those parents who thought I could stay in the church and "be the change" or the ally. I was also told by a local area seventy that I was to be the one to "save my family" by doing everything I needed to do by going to church/the temple/paying my tithing/being faithful. Looking back, that was so emotionally messed up as it put all the guilt on me to "save the family". Our son married his husband last March and all of a sudden, things changed for me. My husband and I went to church the following Sunday (Easter 2023) and as my husband and I walked out I knew I was done with the church and have never been back. Listening to this song though, all of a sudden it did hit me, I don't want to be in someone else's heaven if I can't have my son and his family there with me. The song says it very well, the way my whole thought process has changed this past year in particular. I know my relationship with my son has also changed. We have always been close as he is my only child, but it felt strained for about 5 years after he came out and I still continued to go to church...but not anymore. We are back to that close relationship again. I now realize how hurt he was that I was choosing the church and ignoring the hurt the church was causing him. Not anymore, I choose the love of my family over the demands and hurt of an organized religion.
Your son is lucky to have you ❤
I love this!! Your son is so lucky to have you.
You are truly blessed and a blessing. I remind myself daily that God doesn’t make mistakes. I am proud of your son for acknowledging who he is and not hiding from the stigma other Christians (and l use the word with trepidation) put on him. Your son is lucky to have you as his mother. Spoken as a mother of a gay son and a transgendered daughter. My mother asked for my son’s new address in order to send him a birthday card. She put in the card, all the clobber verses condemning him to Hell. Thank God, she passed before my trans-daughter came out. Hugs and lots of love to your family.
We have one shot in this lifetime and we all should make the best of it and keeping the ones we love closest to us and just enjoy the journey together because we don’t live forever
Good for you and your family
That 70 was not speaking for God. I think we’ll all be surprised how much more love and grace he has for us. It all works out in the end. Even if you’re no longer LDS you’ll always be my sister in Christ.
This is so real. Thank you David for giving us this song and making us feel like we are not alone.
❤️❤️
@@davidarchieI Love it!!!❤❤❤❤❤
I just subscribed to your channel and doubled the number of subscribers. Have a wonderful weekend Jose.😊😉
❤❤
Clearly David’s mother has been a huge support to him but it’s inspiring to think about what comfort she might bring to those that didn’t have supportive parents when they came out. Just knowing there’s adults or parent figures out there that will love you for who you are is a big deal.
what is supportive of telling your son he's going to go to Hell?
@@UTRose45 somthing tells me she doesn’t actually think they’re going to hell. The sentiment is that she loves him and they’re going to stick together.
@@josephgarner94 exactly!
I love this comment so much. Sooo true
When I first stopped going to church seven months ago David’s music really got me through the guilt. My kids have severe special needs and the experiences we had of rejection and being ostracized all while my husband was in the bishopric led to really bad ptsd. But none have looked at my like I have trauma, they look at me thinking that I must have had a crack in my testimony somewhere. My husband called me at work like it was an emergency when this song came out 😂 but it was an emergency in a way, it healed emotional pain that should have been urgently healed a long time ago. Although Ive left, I’m still working with the bishop and the stake president so that the special needs families that still go can get the help and support they need in hopes that my story can prove that testimonies can indeed break from disappointment and heartbreak. Thank you David ❤
This is so powerful. The walking out the doors at the end.
It took my mom three days after I told her that I was lesbian to tell me that she loved me no matter what.
I left my childhood church but I never left God.
My God loves me just the way I am!
Thank you for this song
Are you familiar with Calum Scott's song, "No Matter What"?
@@kharding1956 yes, I adore Calum. Another huge talent
Homeboy can sing 🫡🇺🇸🇬🇧
So beautiful. David you are perfect just the way God made you. Your mother is such a blessing and I hope this will help others be accepted and accepting. Powerful song, powerful video.
I am very greatful that I have been washing your music videos from a young age till now I realize that I'm actually walking the same path you are I have praid to heavenly father that if i serve a mission he will take the gay away and i learned that is not the case when i was done with mission i gave one more chance to heavens that if I work really hard and keep the faith after another two i felt trap and commandment force on me i thought i would continue of happiness but it is still not the case that's when I had a fall out form the church and felt so much of a failure. No one came to rescue me because for my faith not even my faithful family because all they thought is a disappointment in me. During that time in 2015 till now 2024 I use to hold on to everyone in church to stay faithful and to protect each other now I'm just holding on to myself and learn and grow to love myself because that is what I got for my personal revelation 2015 to till now. I'm still wanting to take the sacrament and paid tithing as long as I don't drink and keep myself happy and clean in my own home and always use the atonement continue. I plan to be single and continue to be single and I feel fully that is it my path in life. Now I am involving myself more with so much experiences in life with so much different 15 different jobs I got myself involved with through our 12 years of my life and I'm so grateful for that. Now I am planning to run my own restaurant and just build up my own life and for others but for me. So listening to your songs make me feel not alone and I thank you for that and sorry I had to give almost my full life story I felt that I should and thank so much David you are an amazing person to me.
Leaving religion is one of the hardest, and yet most freeing things one can ever do. It allows us to embrace our true selves and live our lives authentically, without the man-made dogma and fake authority looming over our heads like a dark storm cloud.
Proud of you and your mom for choosing to live your free and authentic lives, David!
❤learn buddha, spirituality, read bhagavd gita. You will find..god isnt judgemental..unconditional love for his creations
That's it! ❤
honestly, isn't it wild how weird it feels when you leave? Like you don't even know who you are - but also - what a beautiful thing to explore and learn about ourselves?! (obviously the beginning was tricky), but im nearly a year out and I feel A L I V E for the FIRST TIME in my LIFE! x
I struggle with OCD and epilepsy but sexuality is not about self expression. They're not any better. There is a mental health component to closeted thinking. His attitude is so defiant now. Swearing. Panic attacks. Fashion. Sin of suicide.I mean look for me rebellious meant spending as much money as I wanted or talking back but David this is illuminati level dangerous. You're playing with your soul . Let them lock the gates you'll be screaming when at the apocalypse and second coming You find Jesus says I never knew you. But Jesus you're not inclusive. Tough. You're part of the goats not sheep. Believe me Christ wanted to save sodom. You choose to or not to be queer. But being a fighter over this is puzzling . Respect your life choices. If I talked this way to my parents I would have gotten slapped with a cane or dad calling the police. Or they'd just leave me for another home. For my cheekiness. Or burnout . Rock and roll to me that was rebellion. But why gain the world and lose your soul David! I never received that love Dave.
@@user-xf5uo6gf2z If your fear tactics worked they would already have. A heaven spent with people like you would be worse than any hell
Beautiful! I left for the same reason as your mom. I no longer believe in an LDS sad heaven. Heaven, to me, is where my family is. 💕🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️💕
I can't really even express how grateful I've been for this song. Many of David's steps on his journey out paralleled mine and helped me feel less alone.
You can’t have experienced religious trauma and not feel this song deeply. I am not LGBTQ, but I have many loved ones who are. I profoundly regret letting religion create a divide between us. Leaving was the hardest and best thing I’ve ever done. Thank you for your incredible voice David!!
As a lesbian ex-Southern Baptist. I’m glad your mom chose you. What a beautiful song and story. She got it right. That’s really special.
I grew up Mormon, too, and haven't spoken to most of my family (including my mom) in about a decade, partially because I'm both queer and trans. Honestly, this video was probably the best possible birthday present 😅
I'm so grateful that your mom and family are truly loving people, and that we get to celebrate them in such a beautiful and public way. 💜
❤️🔥sending all the vibes🌈🥹😭❤️🔥
happy belated birthday ❤️
Same. I'm queer(a lesbian) and grew up religiously and have no relationship with any of my family. You aren't alone, internet stranger. You've got rainbow family all over the world.
I love the visual of the completely empty church. That's what made me finally leave after 30 years of mormonism. I realized God was not there, it was an empty building full of empty promises. I'm one of the lucky ones who's parents have escaped too. Thank you David for writing a song for us, the forgotten, the ones who were abandoned by the community we loved and tried so hard to fit into.
Thank you for writing this.❤
I love it. For years the Mormon church used David Archuleta as their caged songbird. They loved him as long as he sang their tune. Well, this bird has clearly grown teeth, and he bites back!
Beautiful metaphor of the caged bird. I don't even think of it as growing teeth and biting back in the end; the bird realized there was no latch on the door, so he pushed his way out and is now free. David hasn't seemed aggressive or especially volatile toward religion; it's more like he seems more relaxed and free, like he's not afraid to finally be himself
@@honeyb.981 Valid point! Maybe I'm projecting my own angler a little, haha. Thank you for pointing that out.
Oh my God, I LOVE that!
They love everyone. And you should see the money the church donates to these so called organizations that want David to be there spokesperson. In the end they will have to answer to God.
@@villegasni the Mormon church does NOT love everyone. They love their money giving members and tolerate everyone else. And the only organizations that the Mormon church donates to are the organizations that will make THEM look good. All they care about is money, asses in seats and publicity.
When my dad, who is a pastor, told me I was mentally ill when I told him I was gay when I was 18, I tried everything not to be that despicable being he told me I was. Conversion therapy, going away to retreats or “encounters”, working in church and nothing ever changed. Since I moved out from my parents house, they’ve been away and every time we see each other, I can’t tell anything I’m doing in my life because it’s sin. Because been away from the church is “the sin”. Last week I had a very traumatic experience and the only thing my parents told me is that God was behind this, that I was uncovered from his presence, that I was gonna die, and my dad even told me not to speak to him again. As a 32-year-old man who lives by himself, I felt so alone and abandoned my whole life and after these experiences, I feel like that again. I came back to be on antidepressants and I feel worthless again, just as the day I came out. Somehow, this song makes me feel I’m not alone in the struggle but the fear I live sometimes is stronger.
Thank you David for giving voice to the voiceless
You are not alone. I'm glad you found this song, this is exactly why David does what he does and and you discovered the true reason for the song - as you said, giving voice to the voiceless. I hope you find community and are able to choose the family you deserve.
Honey you are not alone. The irony to those who say God is the enemy, in reality are the real enemies of His children who are gay or different in other ways. God loves His children. I have a gay son and nephew as well as several cousins. (Come from a huge family) I so wish I could give you a hug, because You are a child of the King💜
You are loved. Despite what your parents say know that GOD LOVES EVERYONE!. He loves you and so do we ❤❤❤. If they dont know that than they're not any better. We are called to love each other in loving kindness. ❤❤❤
Please don't give up. I'm so sorry your parents couldn't be there for you. It's not your fault.
I am so sorry
When my child came out to us 6 years ago, this is very similar to what I said to them. We left our religion as well because of how they treated them and the rest of the LGBTQIA community. We were chastised for supporting our child and giving them unconditional love. So when this song came out it hit such a special spot in our hearts. To all of those who don't have support from their moms, I'll be your mom now.
And myself as well. I am a mother of a young adult gay son, I am myself within the spectrum of LGBTQIA (though predominantly closeted, especially to my LDS family members), AND one who was raised LDS though I'm now completely inactive since 2012. I love both of my precious beautiful children unconditionally, and I will be that Mom as well for anyone who doesn't have that with/from their own Mom.
David this is so beautiful, moving and powerful. I’m in tears 😭😭 those clips of you and Lupe when you were a baby. And fhat ending omg
You are a beacon of light, David!! So is your supportive mom.
I’m 53 and I left the church at 45. No regrets at all leaving.
Spirituality is in your soul and not from a pulpit. So grateful you and your mom are realizing you are more than seen as a human being outside of the torturous constructs of that church.
You and your mom are perfect! Exactly as you are. I’m so glad you are realizing this.
Sending you love on your journey of life!
So beautiful! Instant tears on the first notes!! The footage of you as a baby, you at the piano echoing your Crush video, the dancer looking like your mom, then that hug at the end… tears of joy for you coming through the other side & livjng your glorious truth!! Bravo, David!!! 🙌🏼🥹💜
If hell were filled with people like David, wouldn't that be heaven? 🤔
Either way, we, Archangels are willing to go anywhere with you, David. 💕
I'm not religious but when I heard him sing Imagine on American Idol I thought he was an angel.
Jajajaa buee
thank you for this song David. I left the church just 6 months ago after leaving my abusive marriage. It's so wrong the way the church influences people to see those who leave. We aren't influenced by 'evil spirits', 'lost', or 'going off the deep end'. I have learned that it's BECAUSE of peoples values and their desire to live in truth that they leave. It's easier to stay and takes a lot of strength to live in truth when it rocks your life and you are misjudged for it. For me, I couldn't stay because of all the abuse I see in the church. It's so apparent when you've experienced psychological abuse and know what it looks and feels like. It's hidden if you don't know the in's and outs of what abuse truly entails. I SEE YOU, and everyone else who leaves because they want to live in truth. I wish everyone in the church could still SEE people who leave as good hearted, loving humans with just as much worth as them. Thanks for this song! I've been listening to it so much.
Try as I might, I can't find words to express how I feel about David and this song. Suffice to say I think David is one Brave young man in coming out to his LDS family, friends and the public. I've been a fan since his days on American Idle and am so pleased to find he is still singing and being such a positive role model for young people today. This is sorely needed in today's backlash environment where so many states have passed draconian anti Gay laws. I admire you, David. If there is a heaven, We'll see you there.
I have never gone to church. My sister worked in many churches. She would preach about love, loss, and forgiveness, but yet stepped away from her family and refused to talk to us. If she were to call us today, we would still be here. But she refuses to answer calls and blocks us. So in a way I always had a negative view on church. In some ways I blame it for taking my sister away from us. Like maybe they had a part in making her ghost us. And in addition I live in a pretty conservative area of the country. I have seen so many people talk about God and go to church, but the second someone is different they shun them. I refuse to be a part of that. I believe God is accepting to everyone. He does not shun people because of who they choose to love or who they are. What matters is the goodness in their hearts. Evil isn’t being who you are. It’s treating people like they don’t matter. This song is incredibly beautiful.
Just gorgeous. Everything about this is love. The love of dance, love of music with you at the piano, loving embrace of a mom, and the love of your family in the pictures. The light still shines in you as you leave and close the door. Beautiful! 💛🫶
his mother is a classical dancer, and the woman dancing on the altar depicts the figure of Mama Lupe. I love this song Dave😊
Thank you David, a simple beautiful video so appropriate for telling the story of unconditional love. I wish you and Mama Lupe the best.
Such a gorgeously-shot, raw, and honest video. Your candor in sharing your deconstruction with all of us has been really beautiful to see. And I’m so happy to see you at peace more now than ever.
The beautiful thing about walking out like you did at the end is that you can go anywhere else now. There are no more walls. I can’t wait to see where you venture next. 💙
You said what I couldn't put into words!
If a parent should choose between their religion and their kid, it should always be their kid.
Absolutely.😊❤
A religion that makes a mom choose between itself and her children is, by definition, false!
AMEN
agreed!
Agreed
This is truly heartwarming. Your relationship with your mother is so precious it brought me to tears when I found out the story behind this song. I'm glad you have such a loving mother like her. And I'm so happy you feel more carefree in expressing yourself now, as someone who has been a fan since 2008. Hoping for wonderful things to come your way each day 'cause you deserve them.
I grew up in the Mormon church, I'm 20 years old and came out when I was 15. I finally left when I was 18. I remember seeing you preform on American Idol growing up, seeing you at family search conventions in SLC a few years back. When I heard you left the church, I knew I wasn't the only one who was facing a struggle of being in a conservative community, and the struggle of dealing with the aftermath. My parents weren't accepting at first, but they came around real quick. David, I want to thank you for being a huge role model for me growing up, and even now.
Very good in using the term "church". Leaving church is not leaving God.
So very very beautiful. So emotional, touching and heartfelt.
This song should turn into a universal song for all people who for some reason are not accepted by the others, violence, racism, xenofoby, religion, sexuality, disabled persons, every one have their pains, and no pain is more than another, they are just diferent. Sorry for my english. Hugs from portugal.
Beautiful! I’m a member and an ally. I hope our church comes to realize how much richer we we’ll be with you and others welcomed in to full fellowship. Not sure if you would ever come back because I don’t know you but I pray for the day all are welcome and no one has to choose between the church and their family. This song says it all.
That will not happen, the bible is an officially homophobic book, so unless the newer testament comes out this will never change
I agree because I am also a member but I have a gay uncle and aunty
I just subscribed to your channel. Have a wonderful weekend.
Honestly, this is one of the best responses a believing member could give. Not asking us to come back, but hoping for the right kind of change so that others aren't forced to make that extremely difficult choice. I wish more Latter-Day Saints had your mindset.
Awesome song 🎵🎶 Your lyrics reflect what people feel when they are raised in a very traditional culture that they can't break away from. So glad your mother is your constant support- an Archiemom indeed.
It happens in a lot of religions but I don't see those people bashing their religion like he has. Just walk away and shut up! He not only left the church but he left his belief in God.
@@CARLETTA1957you don’t get to tell David to shut up. Guess what? He won’t. He’s done being controlled. Live with it. And take your rage elsewhere. We’re celebrating an artist here.
@@CARLETTA1957 He hasn't lost his faith in God, not by a long shot. God and churches/religions are two entirely different things. The latter are manmade institutions, as prone to error, failure and corruption as any other.
And if the LDS Church refuses to accept him as he is for no reason other than that they don't approve of who and how he loves, then they should be called out on their bullshit.
@@CARLETTA1957 good for him if he did! If not, that's his path - HIS path, not for anyone else to have a say about.
@@CARLETTA1957easy to talk like that when you find it acceptable to treat people the way the church does.
David, I am welling up in tears. Your song after listening to it 70 times since it came out March 28 changed my life forever. Every time. I listened to it, I felt the power. Oh, David I love this song so much! David, if you go to Hell, I'm going with you. Thank you so much for this beautiful, evocative and powerful song. Love you brother!❤
we will have a great gathering there together!
My process is hard for me, I am going through mental disorders, my mother does not accept the fact that I am an LGBT person, I left the church 1 year ago, thank you David for showing me that all is not lost.
You are far from lost! I felt free and at peace when I left the church. The burdens of perfectionism, scrupulosity, and always feeling like a failure are lifted.
You have a wonderful rest of your life ahead of you. Live every minute !
Internet hugs from a proud dad of an amazing gay son!
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
I am a faithful Catholic, but man this song hit me. I am not gay, but I have a best friend who is, and I know people who are. I know the God I worship would never love them any less for it. I did not understand the woman dancing in the church very much, but when he hugged her at the end, I was crying. What a beautiful song sung by a beautiful man.
My take is she represents his mom. She resembles her too.
@@thatslife208you are right his mom is a classically trained dancer and it does represent her
Hallelujah, what's it doing for ya?
When it's in the way?
Hallelujah, wish we knew it sooner
Walking out with grace
I left the church a few years ago, and it broke my heart to lose my community. It broke my heart to feel like I was letting my family down.
One of the reasons I left was because I wanted to openly support LGBTQIA+ people and I couldn’t exist in a world that taught me otherwise.
This song makes me ball my eyes out.
Sending all the love and support to anyone out there who came out and needed some extra arms around them. Sending my love to those who did something hard like leaving a religion.
What a beautiful catharsis, now you can move forward and live according to the dictates of your own conscience, I belong to the church in Chile, and I deeply respect your decision, may God bless you, never forget that not being in the church does not mean being far from God ❤
Exquisite. What a love story you created with visuals and your music ❤️❤️❤️ The flashbacks of motherly love. Your mom dancing! And the love continues with the last embrace. Such a tender, simple video. Bravo to all involved. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Beautiful, touching, emotional and sung giving David’s voice a chance to show off his amazing range and talent. 💜💙💚💛❤️🧡
To all the mothers who walk the talk. HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!
Please put these singles into an album, Mr. Archuleta. Beautiful.
OMG, you made me cry!!! I’m pretty sure my mom in Heaven will switch to Hell for me!!!
Most definitely ❤
Forever an Arch Angel! Thank you for sustaining your music.
I cannot fully express how deeply grateful and infinitely happy I am for you and your eternal mother ❤️🔥
I left the church eight years ago and it gave my son courage to come out very shortly after he knew that I was resigning. The agony he had been suffering was soul crushing - to think he feared me disowning him broke me. ❤️🔥 N E V E R ❤️🔥
❤️🔥Thank you Thank you Thank you ❤️🔥
This song & video is so beautiful & emtional. I’m an active member of the LDS Church & it makes me sad you went through what you have with the church. I love you unconditionally & have since you were on American Idol. Your mom is AMAZING!!❤️
WOW WOW WOW. I can’t even imagine all the feelings behind this entire thing… so deep. The song is beautiful, the video is outstanding, the childhood clips are the perfect additive, the metaphorical dancer/hug is 💯 like wow… David Archuleta, you are THE BEST independent artist I know!! You and your whole entire team… 🎉🎉🎉
Yes go David Archuleta great song. Hell Together is a great song. I like it listening on Fri 4-26-2024. You Tube Music brought me here.
I've been your fan since I first saw you audition on American Idol, ok let's be real I was one of those teenage girls absolutely obsessed lol. I met you twice, before the American Idol top ten tour as well as when you did your first solo tour, and as I've been following your story the last few years, I've just felt so much admiration for you. Watching you on Masked Singer made me so emotional because your journey has really tested you and you have really grown into yourself and as a fan, it's just wonderful to see. I'm happy for you, David!
Standing proud for you David ❤
God's love is always personal for each one of us, believe always.
I'm a LDS CHURCH member, and I am great with my life, I support David although his decision.
Bow your head, don't be bold
You'll survive by doing what you're told
Said love is earned and we can't choose
But the more you grow, you know the truth
And all I want is to make you proud
If I would run would I let you down?
You said
If I have to live without you
I don't wanna live forever
In someone else's heaven
So let 'em close the gates
Oh, if they don't like the way you're made
Then they're not any better
If paradise is pressure
Oh, we'll go to Hell together
You and me, that's all we need
Blood is thicker than the pages that they read
I'm afraid of letting go
Of the version of me that I used to know
Crying tears in Sunday crowds
Took my hand, and we walked out
You said
If I have to live without you
I don't wanna live forever
In someone else's heaven
So let 'em close the gates
Oh if they don't like the way you're made
Then they're not any better
If paradise is pressure
Oh, we'll go to Hell together
Hallelujah, what's it doing for ya?
When it's in the way?
Hallelujah, wish we knew it sooner
Walking out with grace
You said
If I have to live without you
I don't wanna live forever
In someone else's heaven
So let 'em close the gates
If they don't like the way you're made
Then they're not any better
If paradise is pressure
Oh, we'll go to Hell together
Imagine if David hadn’t discovered he was gay. He would have been locked into his religion, condemning gays everywhere. What a gift this has been for him to finally give him the nudge to learn to think for himself. Would have been great had he gotten there regardless of his own situation.
the upper notes are amazing, so beautiful, and beautiful lyrics. "you said if i have to live without you, i don't want to live forever" wow, this songs makes me so emotional.
I've hated church since I was 4. My mom and I fought brutally almost every Sunday because I didn't want to go. We've both left the church now, but the hurt and mistrust it caused never went away. I vowed when I became a mother that I would NEVER raise my own child in the church. It has been the best decision. This song really speaks to me. My mother put church above family, but this song sends such a very powerful message that it doesn't have to be like that.
Love you living your life to the fullest, not stuck behind a cult.
This is so nice, thoughtful, and beautiful that David dedicated this song for his family. We need more people like David in this world and it makes me feel like I'm not all alone at all in this world👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
I just watched this for the first time. I paused as you walked out the door. I cannot tell you how moving and beautiful the expression is in this! I am crying rn. David, I really admire your family's dedication to memorializing their experiences together with video -- in some ways I believe is helped you grow as a person and helped you be more comfortable on camera. My family... lets just say they were once better at family memories with pictures. I am glad you were able to highlight your growth over the years, its an important transcendence and acceptance of who you are as a person, and it validates your decision to leave a discriminatory book club behind. I have great compassion for your mother and this video is more complete now than the beauty you showcased with the audio version only. I am not sure additional verses are needed (as mentioned on twitter). I understand this is the unconditional love a parent has for you and the beautiful expression and respect you both share for each other.
I can’t move on from this song David.
I’ll never get this closure in real life… so having it here is healing.
Thank you to you AND your mom ❤
I've been wondering what the music video would look like since this song came out. To me, the dancer in white represents how I always felt like I was doing the song and dance the church told me I needed to do. Always seaching for validation in white. "Look how good, how pure, I am!" It was also so real to me. It's difficult to describe just how devastating it is to realize the truth. And at the same time freeing. Thank you for this song. It means so much to me.
The choreography was so tense and raw. It felt like such a struggle. I love your interpretation. Thanks for sharing it.
I have such vivid memories of your American Idol season. A time when I was quietly struggling with the realization that I was gay- a very formative time. I can't tell you how cathartic it has been, hearing your song, seeing the video. David, from one queer ex-mo to another, thank you!
This is a beautiful tribute to all the moms out there who accept their children no matter what. I'm sharing it with my mother, and I hope others do too!
At a time when some diminish our existence, people like you and lyrics like this remind us we do, indeed, EXIST. For the person who needs to hear it, we got you. Thank you, David.
In some cases where the parents are not behind their child. This makes u think you wish they were. Life would be easier .
I just get jealous sometimes that I don't have that. This song is amazing.
Oh wow! This is so beautiful and very moving! I have tears running down my face!
David, the video is sensational. I love the pictures of your mom and you guys when you were little. The music is absolutely sensational. It goes right through your soul. Thank you for sharing this with me. I’m praying for you. We love you. God bless you. Tell your mom, I’m praying for her and I’m so proud of her, God bless her 🙏🙏🤗🤗
Hey David. Don’t think I ever told you how I became a FAN.
Happened the year you released your Christmas album and then January 2 after that Christmas I lost my 87 yo mom. Best mom to gay son ever !
I listened over and over and over to your Christmas album cover song of Ave Maria. The only thing that brought me comfort at that time of my life.
I tell everyone; the only two people who will love you unconditionally are your mother and your dog.
Well everyone’s different, but that’s certainly true for me.
Thanks for your love and support in that moment through your music. Love you
It destroys me that Mormon parents will be satisfied with only being able to visit their children who walked away from the church for all of eternity. Living a celestial heaven to have to have to continually walk away from your children is never an example of “godliness.” I’m so happy that your mom chose you and you still found a way to create a song that gives space to those of us whose parents made a different choice! ❤❤❤
But choosing to walk away from the Church is not also fair. When everyone walks away, who will remain?
I can't even imagine your struggle, but from all your songs I could feel you're still fighting. David, you're not going to hell. And if the main requirement to get to heaven is based on who you sleep with on your bed, then i don't want that heaven ❤
Awww David this is a lovely happy special song for everyone that's a member of the church or not!! And this song has thought me to love myself and my family and friends and Jesus and God to no matter what too!! And I love you to coool dude !!! God bless amen!! ❤❤✨️✨️🙏🙏
This moved me!!
You and your sweet mom are showing so many people what true love really is. Thank you for sharing your story with everyone. The little kiddo in everyone deserves to have a parent/grown-up in their lives that chooses them over religious dogma. Thank you again!! ❤
I love this song so much! It reminds me of my late husband Jamie and my late mother Alice - she softened her homophobia through her love for my husband. While she ought to have done it for me I am grateful that her seeing our relationship as valid and beautiful helped her to end her indoctrinated "beliefs" (that aren't really beliefs). Thank you, David, for this beautiful song!!!!!
Your mom is amazing for supporting you and speaking about it. It’s not easy to leave a community you were raised in but she’s 100% right. God loves his children and no one deserves to be told they don’t belong. I’m happy you get to live your truth 🤍
You should be very very proud of this song, the message and the impact it will have on many people. No "religion" has a right in any way shape or form to tell you who to love and how to love. Every structured religion should be teaching kindness, empathy and love for humankind. Simple. Be good to others and you will go to Heaven. Thank you for bringing your song and message and thanks to your Mom for making a courageous choice to believe in you and her heart!!
Phenomenal. Transformative. A Masterpiece. From the Confliction of Emotional, Psychological, Societial, Cultural Unacceptance, Shame, and Harsh Conditional Judgement. To the True Arrival of Self and Self Acceptance in All of it's Wonderful Glory.
Enbracing Oneself without any qualifications, conditions, or exceptions. Self Conceptualization. Your Spiritual Gift Blesses Many. It is Beautiful to Witness. This is an American Anthem. A Worldly Anthem! ❤❤❤😇🥰
Beautiful mv and family footage, David… even some of your mom dancing!… I was filled with emotion watching you in the church- alone… and sad. I can’t imagine how difficult it all was.🥺I also felt the deep turmoil, conflict and wrestle from the dancer ( like your mom) who went through her own personal struggle. But in time she found her peace and resolve in choosing LOVE, in choosing YOU ~ and the embrace at the end is so beautiful.❤️❤️❤️
Thank you, and your mom , for helping us to understand and for reminding us how important it is to LOVE first. ❤
This is so POWERFUL!!! I am in tears how courageous you and your mom are…THANK YOU for showing us this strength and this POWER!!
This song should win song of the year on every chart that exists....really. David , his heart, his soul and his music....what a tremendous gift to the world.
It won't.
The way I started sobbing the moment the dancer moved… it perfectly captures this agony. I just… I did not expect the video to be so accurate and so crushing and such a release all at the same time.
Gosh , not me crying over here! I just love David and all his songs. He really knows how to move people. His voice is amazing 🥲
David keep singing and doing what you do please, your voice is so beautiful and so is your family. God loves you no matter what and so do we ! ❤
I love this song as well every time I read your story a ton and I’m still part of the church still but I am struggling like you as well and you always help
Some way even though I don’t know you in person but thank you David
David, you are saving so many families, so many lives. I wish it could hands been an easier road for you. We are so lucky we had unconditionally lovng moms who would choose us over anything.
Such a beautiful song David. Amazing talent
Leaving the faith of my childhood was one of the hardest and most fulfilling events of my entire life. It really shifted my reality and I was frankly overwhelmed by the pain that came along with it. But it was worth it! I'm happier and more fulfilled than I've ever been.
You are so lucky to have a mom that chose her heart over everything else.
Omg 😭😭 this video!!!!! Gah this will help so many people. I never knew I needed this song until you released it, it’s made me feel so validated after leaving the Mormon faith. Thank you David 💖
I just lost my Mother. I pray to God to trade in my life to my mother, because I coukd never live without my mother. I was in depresion and grieving , but I decided to continue.Thanks for the song David. I wept. If I couldn't continue to listen it because the song is beautiful with gut wrenching lyrics. Love to every mother in the world. Love to you David ❤
Ex-mo here struggling with family relationships because of the church. Very powerful! Chills! Thank you, David.
That ending shot… walking out of the darkness into the light …. Amazing symbolism
Even as a heterosexual male, this song speaks volumes on how Love conquers all. What a great message!
"If I have to live without you, I don't wanna live forever." Truer words have never been spoken.
If there's a God he loves us just the way we are. Keep on shining David and Lupe. Beautiful song ❤
This song hit me hard 😢
Beautiful. There is nothing better than parents or people for that mater who GET it! It should be more than ENOUGH for a parent who is proud and accepting of thier son and daughter treating humanity well and having respect for others because they taught them to be like that. No matter how they were born. Bravo David!
Moved me to tears! Dogma is no match for motherly love
That is a profound statement.
Its beautiful, so beautiful
I'm in tears, so touching, you (David) are a blessing to so many and to myself!!
This could be an all time comeout song. You make us proud, David! We could sing this song to all the parents out there that we’re still their kids and love them no matter how.
Wow this is so emotional and really beautiful... Love the song ❤ greetings from Perú David