Braden Rumfelt Shines on American Idol, Proving Talent Runs in the Family
Braden Rumfelt’s performance on American Idol left fans and judges asking the same question: was this just an audition, or the start of something much bigger?
Luke Bryan didn’t hold back, telling Braden, “I think you’re a racehorse, man,” while Lionel Richie praised his voice, saying, “You have a top end to your voice that’s really special.”
Braden, 22, a substitute teacher from Murphy, North Carolina, once dreamed of playing professional sports. Encouraged by his father, those plans were derailed by a congenital leg condition that required multiple surgeries.
“By the time I reached high school, both of my knees started hurting,” Braden shared before his audition. “I found out I have a congenital issue—my legs are naturally misaligned. I needed two lower leg realignments, and that ended my sports dreams. It was hard watching others do what I wanted to do.”
Singing with his twin brother, Kellen, became a source of comfort. “Whenever I was hurting, I realized I felt better when I was singing. Kellen has always been there as my voice of encouragement,” Braden explained.
Kellen told Idol producers that Braden’s talent for music was obvious from an early age. “I’ve always known his gift is singing. I couldn’t be prouder of him for chasing this new dream. He’s my hero,” Kellen said.
Though initially nervous about auditioning, Braden described stepping in front of the Idol judges as a dream come true. “I didn’t know I’d get a chance like this. It’s incredible,” he admitted.
Braden’s audition performance of Little Big Town’s “Girl Crush” left the judges in awe. Wearing a tan jacket over a white t-shirt, jeans, and white Nike sneakers, he delivered the song with goosebumps-inducing vocals while Kellen played acoustic guitar beside him.
The judges’ reactions were overwhelmingly positive. Carrie Underwood called him “exceptional” and encouraged him to relax, while Luke Bryan admitted, “I wanted to come out there and just shake your arms. You’re a racehorse, man.” Richie highlighted Braden’s vocal range and texture, noting, “It’s not as high as Steve Perry, but it’s so sweet and strong. You’ve got show business potential.”
Bryan and Richie both agreed: Braden has what it takes to go far. All three judges shouted, “You’re going to Hollywood Week!” leaving the brothers excited and almost in disbelief.
Reflecting on the moment, Braden credited Kellen for helping him reach this milestone. “I wouldn’t be here without him. We’ve shared so many memories, and I love this guy,” Braden said.
Behind the scenes, Bryan and Richie told Idol producers, “He’s only showing 80% of what he can do—there’s so much more potential to come.”
New episodes of American Idol air Mondays at 8/7c on ABC and are available to stream the next day on Hulu.