Though “American Idol” judge and pop star Katy Perry questioned her choice of song, Bradenton contestant Mylon Shamble didn’t let that stop her from giving what could be a life-changing performance.

Her “American Idol” journey began with a phone call from mom. “She said, ‘Listen, you have two options. You can either get a job in corporate America or try your hand at singing,’” Mylon Shamble told ...