David Hernandez – An American Idol with Pride

by Alexander Rodriguez

American Idol alum David Hernandez has shared the stage with the likes of Bryan Adams, Donna Summer, Taylor Dayne, Thea Austin, and Cece Peniston; sang at the Inaugural Kick-Off Celebration ball for Barak Obama, performing alongside Jamie Foxx, John Legend, Maroon 5, along with event hosts Jessica Alba and legendary TV producer, Norman Lear; and has been showcased his talents on The Ellen Show, The Today Show, MTV’s TRL, EXTRA, Entertainment Tonight, Access Hollywood, Teen Choice Awards; but perhaps the most nerve-wracking career moment was the release of “Beautiful”, his post-Idol single that left no doubt that David was a member of the LGBT community.  A decision to come out could have put his mainstream career at risk, but the result was a stronger voice (pardon the pun) to represent diversity in the LGBT community, producing music that speaks to an audience regardless of orientation. 

Hernandez started singing at age 6, received initial on-stage training by performing in youth theater, and has done everything from selling knives door to door to working in burlesque to keep his music career going.  American Idol put him on the map, and he’s been going strong since, becoming a favorite at Pride performances around the nation.  Not even quarantine could keep his voice quiet, he released his latest single “Sorry” (with producer American Idol mentor Michael Orland) and covered “True Colors” (with Magnum PI’s Jacqueline Lord).  His weekly social media concerts have also become a fan favorite.  No David Hernandez binge-fest would be complete without the addition of “What I See” with fellow American Idol alum, Effie Passero – a strong ally and a Pride favorite. 

We sat down with David to get the dish:   

What was your coming out story?

Well, my coming out story was not traumatic. I told my mom first and then later, told my stepmom and my dad over the phone. I was really surprised at how little they cared about my sexuality. They just wanted me to be healthy and happy and find love with someone and for myself. I know that a lot of people don’t share that similar story and coming out has been a difficult time for them. People need to express themselves on their own and when they are ready.

Minorities within the LGBT community have been highlighted in our current social climate, have you experienced racism regarding your Latin heritage from the gay community?

Because I am half white, I think the lighter tone of my skin has afforded me some amount of privilege. There have been very few times that I have experienced racism, but my Mexican side of the family has seen a lot of it. I know my dad has been pushed by police officers as recent as last year and throughout his life. My mom mentioned that her father, my grandfather, did not want to meet me when I was first born because of my half Mexican side. We were never that close, so it didn’t really bother me but, I know his mind has changed since then and I have had the chance to meet him.  

What was lifelike behind the scenes of filming American Idol?

Life was hectic and stressful, but the overall experience was incredible. I had no idea that it would catapult me into the public eye way that it did. There was nothing that could prepare you for that. There was a lot of sleepless nights and seemingly endless rehearsals. Lots of coffee and Red Bull. Lol. It was like Boot Camp for singers. I made a lot of incredible connections and relationships, many of whom I’m still in contact with.   

What advice would you give an artist auditioning for a reality show?

I would say go for it! Television is still an incredible platform and if you can get your face out there for millions of people, you can basically steer your career in whatever direction you want. Just don’t take it personal because at the end of the day it’s still a TV show and they have ratings to uphold.  

You have performed for some major events, what is your process to warm up for a gig, what’s happening backstage?  Also, how do you handle nerves?

I usually must print out my lyrics for new songs that I’m learning about a week ahead of time. But usually backstage, I’ve let go and let God in terms of preparation. I trust that I’ve done the work and at the performance will be great. As far as my nerves are concerned, I’m always nervous performing regardless if it’s a live show or a virtual show. So, I usually have a glass of wine or bourbon to ease the stress.  

What has been your biggest onstage mishap?

I was in Las Vegas performing at Krave night club. I don’t know what happened, but the microphone slipped out of my hand and fell into the audience. Lol. The music kept playing and a young girl was nice enough to pick up the microphone and hand it back to me. LOL. I was super embarrassed but, the show must go on!

What is our creative process when writing a new song?

 The process just varies for me. I usually have a melodic idea in my head and then I sit down with a musician and we bring it to life. But sometimes, I wait until I hear what the musicians playing and then write the melody. And then the lyrics. It’s always a different experience depending on who I’m working with. I like it to happen organically so that the result is something incredible.

To celebrate Pride, you covered True Colors…what are your true colors?

My true colors vary. Humans are complex and nothing is ever black or white. There are all the in- betweens and intricacies that make us unique and different. I’m a gay Latino man, a brother, a son, a doggy dad, a boyfriend, a lover, and musician to name a few. Xo  

You have paired up with one of our American Idol faves, Effie Passero.  What tips can you give an artist about collaborating with another songwriter?

Well, Effie is incredible. Working with her was the easiest thing that I’ve ever had to do in terms of collaborating with someone. I think it’s important to always acknowledge each other’s creative differences and similarities and not talk over each other. Sometimes if you just sit back and listen, the answers speak for themselves and the creative direction happens organically.

What does Pride mean to you?

Pride means being authentic and true to yourself. It also means accepting others for who they are and celebrating our unity and cohesiveness as a human race.

How did you survive quarantine?

Lol. Well, lots of patience. I have two roommates and we share an 800 square-foot apartment so, there’s lots of long walks and wine nights. Honestly, doing my virtual shows every Saturday night has really helped keep me afloat financially. I’m super grateful for the fans and friends that have contributed and donated. Without them, I don’t know where I would be during this time.

You have performed at Pride events around the nation, how do Pride attendees differ from region to region?

Well, we are all from different walks of life and depending on where you live, it influences who you are and your lifestyle. So, everyone is extremely different but, one theme always remains and that is love and acceptance. I’ve never performed a pride where there wasn’t smiling faces or amazing celebrations.

What message can you give your fans during this Pride season?

The world is crazy right now so please be safe out there but continue to spread the message of love and light. Honor who you are and respect who other people are as well. Please keep trying to stand up against racism, transphobia, homophobia, sexism, ageism, bigotry and so many other terrible things in this world. It starts with every one of us to make a change.

Rapid Fire:

Most over performed song: “say so” Doja Cat

Beyoncé or Gaga: BEYONCE.

Shadiest thing you saw behind the scenes at American Idol: The list of people that were going home in the order they were going home. Lol.

Celebrity crush: Beyoncé. Lol.

First thing you do when you come home from a gig: Have a cocktail and scroll through IG. It relaxes me.

IG: @DavidHernandezMusic  Twitter: @DHernandezMusic

You can catch his full interview with Alexander at www.OntheRocksRadioShow.com or your favorite podcast player