‘American Idol XIV’ video: Shannon Berthiaume states her case to advance

Tonight is the first part of Final Judgment on “American Idol XIV,” and this is a rather interesting time for many reasons. We’ve got a variety of very-talented people all competing for limited spots, and it is about more than just picking the people with the most talent. There’s also the issue of reliability, artistry, and personality that you have to consider.

With Shannon Berthiaume (as seen in the sneak peek below), you have a rather interesting dilemma. In terms of pure talent, there’s no doubting that she has it. She’s a great female rock / soul singer who can do things few others in the competition can. Also, she has a lively personality, and seems capable of shifting songs more and more to adapt to her style.

The issue here is a simple one: Experience. The judges stressed before the season that they weren’t quite looking for diamonds in the rough this season, and that they’ve tried that in the past to less-than-favorable results. Shannon is a diamond in the rough if there ever was one. She has barely performed on stage on front of an audience, and this showed with a couple of rookie mistakes during Hollywood Week. Because she’s relatively green, she may not be as artistic as some other performers, as well.

So is her immense talent worth the gamble? That is something that the judges will have to reconcile as they decide to put her in the top 24. We’re leaning right now towards “yes,” but we have to hear how the other contestants sound, as well.

To preview another contestant on tonight’s episode in Jax, head over to the link here today! Also, be sure to sign up to score some other news worth singing about right away, courtesy of our official CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: Fox.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxpWbJrIGO0