Nicki Minaj in one of her colorful costumes
Nicki Minaj in one of her colorful costumes Reuters

Like most of you, we were surprised to learn that rapper Nicki Minaj will be joining Mariah Carey as a judge on "American Idol" next season. With slim credentials like being Lil Wayne's protégé, we're not so sure the colorful lyricist has what it takes to be judge material.

But before we proceed any further, let's take a quick rundown of what qualities an ideal judge, singing or otherwise, should possess. They should have knowledge of the field in which they are judging, experience, sound judgment, objectivity, character and ability to accurately convey their opinion.

1. It goes without saying that a judge should have sound knowledge of whatever competition they are judging. Can Minaj sing? No she cannot (this is strictly a personal opinion). How can "AI" expect her to judge a singing competition when it's more than likely that she cannot read music?

2. She doesn't have enough music experience and no, countless hours spent at the studio does not qualify as experience. Minaj needs that foundation in order to make a valid assessment of the contestants' skills.

3. Is she tough enough to stick with her decisions? We're not so sure. If Minaj constantly changes her mind on the show, she will appear green, and once that's done, there's no coming back. She must be unflinching in her opinions as a judge, no matter how unpopular her choices might be.

4. Again this is a personal opinion, but Minaj strikes us as the kind of person who might not be objective. For example: She might be biased towards a certain contestant because she sees a part of herself in them. And to be a fair judge one must stay unattached to any preconceived notions.

5. While Nicki has a vivacious character, we're not sure she will be taken seriously as a judge. Attempts to appear in charge and knowledgeable, when she clearly isn't, might cost "AI" some viewers - something they cannot afford at this point.

6. Have you heard Minaj speak? Born in Trinidad, her accent is a cross between a New York Brooklyn and British accent, with a hint of a growl. An ideal judge must convey their criticisms in a clear and concise manner.

We will be watching "American Idol" with bated breath, and judging Minaj's performance as she judges the contestants.

Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez, who had been with "Idol" for only two seasons, announced their departure from the show not too long ago. The only remaining judge, Randy Jackson, will be moving into a mentoring role.

We wonder how Nick Jonas is taking the news. Just last month the 19-year-old singer confirmed that he was being considered for the coveted judging position."The rumors are true ... I am being considered to be a judge on American Idol," Jonas wrote to his horde of Twitter followers. "And it would be a dream come true if it happens. #nickonidol."

Do you think Nicki Minaj has enough experience to be an "American Idol" judge? Weigh in.