David Archuleta Is Getting ‘Naughty’ in New Music After Coming Out: ‘Not the Same Sweet Little Teenage Boy’ (Exclusive)

David Archuleta, the former American Idol contestant, is making waves in the music industry with his latest single “Crème Brulée” as he embraces a more mature and daring approach to his music career. The 34-year-old singer-songwriter recently spoke exclusively to PEOPLE about this bold new direction he is taking in his musical journey after leaving the Mormon church and coming out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.

During the Human Rights Campaign’s 2025 dinner honouring Ashley Park, Hannah Einbinder, and Janelle Monáe at Fairmont Century Plaza on March 22, Archuleta shared insights about his new single. He expressed his satisfaction with the surprise factor it brought, stating that people’s unexpected reactions to the song bring him joy. The singer highlighted that the purpose behind the track was to showcase a different side of himself, breaking away from the image of the sweet teenage boy he was known as during his American Idol days.

With lyrics that hint at a steamy rendezvous and a dance-heavy music video released alongside the song, “Crème Brulée” marks a departure from Archuleta’s previous music style. The chorus of the track features cheeky and playful lines that exude a sense of sensuality and allure. Archuleta hinted at more songs in a similar vein to follow, embracing a slightly naughty yet savory tone in his music.

The singer’s journey towards embracing his authentic self has been a transformative one in recent years. After publicly coming out and stepping away from the Mormon church in 2021, Archuleta has found a new sense of freedom and self-acceptance. He revealed that his mother, Lupe Marie Mayorga, has been supportive of his journey, despite initial struggles with his decision to come out. Archuleta shared that his mother now takes pride in his growth and evolution as an artist.

Reflecting on his evolving music style and personal growth, Archuleta sees this phase in his career as a “dirty era” filled with subtle hints and innuendos in his songs. While not veering into explicit territory, the singer aims to strike a balance between naughty and nice, exploring a more mature and edgy side to his artistry. This bold new direction signifies a significant shift in Archuleta’s musical landscape, allowing him to express himself authentically and fearlessly.

As fans eagerly anticipate more music from Archuleta in this new chapter of his career, the singer’s confidence and self-assuredness shine through in his latest work. Through bold lyrics, captivating melodies, and a fresh perspective, David Archuleta is poised to captivate audiences with his daring and authentic approach to music-making. Stay tuned for more exciting developments from this seasoned artist as he continues to push boundaries and explore new creative horizons.