AP Photo/Kenny CrookstonIt's the thought that counts. Or, at least, it's going to have to be in David Archuleta's case.
American Idol producers have put the kibosh on a planned charity concert in the runner-up's homestate of Utah, an event masterminded by Archuleta's father as a thank-you to fans who backed the teen crooner.
The toe-tapping token of gratitude, however, apparently wasn't run through the proper channels (like, any), and has now been unceremoniously called off due to a little uncharitable thing called "contractual obligations."
Archuleta's agent, Roger Widynowski, said Tuesday that the concert, billed as "Back Home With David Archuleta" and planned for tomorrow night, would be a no-go because the angel-voiced 17-year-old was not allowed to perform at any non-Idol-sanctioned gigs. Not even one whose entire proceeds were earmarked for charity.
"They're just going to reschedule the event for a later time," infamous papa Jeff Archuleta told the Salt Lake Tribune. "When all the minds met, everyone concluded this wouldn't work out for this particular weekend, and they just want to reschedule it for toward the middle or the end of the [American Idols Live! summer] tour."
Widynowski, however, said the Utah concert would more likely be postponed until after the Idol-powered road show comes to a close.
And, it follows, when the proposed gig wouldn't cut into the official tour's potential revenue.
Tickets were originally set to go on sale Wednesday for $1 apiece. A quarter would pay for service charges and the other 75 cents were to be divided between the Multiple Sclerosis Society and Make-a-Wish Foundation.
Hometown fans will still get a chance to see the star-in-the-making before then, as the Idol tour touches down in Salt Lake City July 14 and 15.
Archuleta is in his hometown of Murray through the end of the week before returning to Los Angeles to begin rehearsing for the summer trek, which features champ David Cook and the rest of the top 10 finalists and kicks off July 1 in Glendale, Ariz.
It's not all disappointing news for Archuleta and his fans, however. The singer was officially signed to 19 Recordings/Jive Records today and will release his debut album later this year.
"Signing a record contract with 19 Recordings/Jive Records is truly a dream come true," he said. "Being a fan of American Idol since season one and admiring the alumni, I am honored and humbled to be a part of that group. I'm really excited to start working on everything."