February 14, 2008

Wednesday a Staunton local made his way in to the top 24 semifinalists in American Idol. 17-year-old Colton Berry from Staunton will now be among the 12 guys and 12 gals that made the cut on the final night of Hollywood week.

Berry auditioned in Charleston, South Carolina for a chance to make it to Hollywood. Berry is a senior at Wilson Memorial High School.

"I've been surrounded by music since I was young. Anything and everything and everyone has influenced me musically" said Berry.

Berry says he first started singing when he was five in church and the only formal singing training he has had were a few years of voice lessons.

Next Tuesday, the top 12 male singers are in the hot seat on the Fox talent contest, and, on Wednesday, the women follow.