From Merrick Christensen’s Blog, writer of “Angels in the Alleyway” and “The Most Beautiful Part About This Is”
June 5, 2010.
The Story
A few years ago I was blessed to record two songs that I had written with David Archuleta. The first, Angels in The Alleyway, was primarily written about my struggles with the mental illness I’ve dealt with for several years. The fear I think we all feel that we’ve lost our mind, are somehow different, and have let everyone including ourselves and God down. The end of the song attempts to portray the hope & salvation I know and feel when I turn to God. His supporting me, and my realizing it.
The second, The Most Beautiful Part About This Is… was written for an uncle of mine who was diagnosed with terminal illness at a relatively young age. The song is about the faith and inspiration I felt and witnessed from him, and his entire family. I am still amazed every time I think about them. David was kind enough to record these songs with me. This song, in particular, has been a huge strength to my family, or at least I like to think so.
A huge thanks…
I can’t thank David enough for the incredible impact his recording these songs have had in my life and my family’s. He is truly a gifted man and everything you perceive about him, you know that wholesome, good, humble person; in my opinion and experience is entirely true. I can’t think of a better person to have the success that David has since American Idol, I have never even heard of someone handling such fame and growth with such grace and humility; especially at such a young age. I can’t give David enough props for that and all the other things I’ve been able to see. I hope this post isn’t perceived as a plug for the songs I’ve done with him, as you can see that aren’t linked anywhere on this site. This is just me sincerely expressing my gratitude.
I just love these songs and love how David Archuleta sang them. “The Most Beautiful Part About This Is” helped me get through a difficult time in my life and this song will always hold a special part in my life – and will always be thankful for — Thanks, Merrick and David!
** Editor’s note: Both songs are available at iTunes.
I was very surprised to hear that Merrick was just a teenager when he wrote the songs and that David co-wrote them with him. He’s only a year older than David.
ozarko(Quote)
The songs are very inspirational. I listen to them all the time. My son loves “Angels in The Alleyway” and his only 13 years old.
As always David understimating his talent.
china80(Quote)
What a beautiful gesture from Merrick; very talented young man. I love both songs! but “The Most Beautiful Part About This Is…..” is very special to me; the lyrics, the melody are beautiful and David’s voice = heaven!
Sandra DB – Venezuela(Quote)
I haven’t heard the songs yet, but am about to. David has an incredible way of saving and lifting souls that need a helping hand. I can’t thank him enough for when he sang, When You Believe, or when some of his music has a background of snow falling. He just brings such needed beauty to the world with everything he does.
acdja(Quote)
We tried for a year to get an interview with Merrick – was curious to hear the story behind the songs and thought it might help a little with his MP3 sales. He never responded to our requests, now I understand he was struggling with some very difficult issues in his life. Best of luck to Merrick; would love to hear more music from him in the future! I was listening to TMBPATI just a few days ago.
archuletafanscene(Quote)
I’m glad that Merrick told us more about these songs. I had always wondered about them.
goldstar(Quote)
Those are 2 truly beautiful songs… It’s great that Merrick that explained more about the songs.
Ally™(Quote)
Thank you so much for your kind words. I can’t thank you enough for reaching out.
@archuletafanscene I am sorry for ignoring your requests for an interview. Truthfully I was facing and am still facing some of the hardest times of my life thus far. Even so, it was and is no excuse to show that kind of ingratitude. Thanks for your understanding. Really.
@goldstar, @ozarko, @china80 Thank you.
Merrick Christensen(Quote)
Thank you and David for giving all of us two beautiful and inspirational songs.
Hope things get better for you soon. We would love to hear from you if and when you decide on that interview.
Take care and God Bless.
china80(Quote)
Hey, that’s okay, Merrick! Hope things start looking up soon. Thanks for stopping by!
archuletafanscene(Quote)