At the age of 16, David Archuleta captured hearts as the runner-up on American Idol. But behind the charismatic performer on stage was a young man struggling to reconcile his Mormon upbringing with his queer identity. In this episode, David shares how he nearly got married to women several times, contemplated suicide, and ultimately let go of everything he’d been taught it meant to be “good.” Here are his songs:

Fast Car - Tracy Chapman
Amor Prohibido - Selena
It’s Okay To Cry - SOPHIE
Jireh - Elevation Worship & Maverick City Music (feat. Chandler Moore, Naomi Raine)
If It’s Not God - Maddie Zahm
Hell Together - David Archuleta
Freedom! - George Michael

Listen to David Archuleta's full playlist on Spotify. Find the transcript of this episode at lifeinsevensongs.com. Thoughts? Guest suggestions? Email us at lifeinsevensongs@sfstandard.com.

Embracing ‘amor prohibido’ with singer David Archuleta