Shi Scott Never Sang for an Audience Until 'Idol'

Auditioning for a show like American Idol isn't easy, even when you have years of experience under your belt. No matter how many times you stand up on a stage and sing your heart out in front of crowds of people, nothing can prepare a performer to give the performance of their lives in front of mega-stars like Jennifer Lopez. Shi Scott did just that, except she says it was her first time singing in front of an audience. Ever.

Hold up — It takes seasoned performers years to work up the courage to audition on American Idol but, despite a little hesitation at the beginning of her performance, Shi was able to deliver a strong performance on her first try. The first time I ever performed for an audience ended in tears. And I was in a tiny studio with about 45 people watching. Sure I was 10, but that day still haunts me. So I can't even imagine how she was feeling with her first singing experience being in the Idol audition room. She does have a YouTube channel showcasing her talents which means so she's not a total performance virgin, but there's a huge difference from singing to your computer and singing to JLo and Harry Connick, Jr.

Shi chose "Valerie" by Amy Winehouse as her audition song. She sounded EXACTLY like Winehouse, which would be great if this was a celeb sound-a-like contest. But it's not and the judges are looking for singers to add their own twist on a song to show their personal style. This was a major red flag to guest-judge Adam Lambert, who knows a thing or two about the Idol audition experience. The Idol alum didn't think she was ready for the competition, and I agree. No matter how talented you are, you can't sing for the first time and expect it to be your big break. Shi is up against performers who have been singing and training for years and years, and who have even graced the audition floor before. She (the pronoun, not the contestant) has a great foundation, but needs more practice and conditioning before being able to be a big contender in this game.

Image: Fox (screenshot)