Braden Rumfelt, a 22-year-old from the small town of Murphy, North Carolina, has been turning heads with his heartfelt American Idol audition. Singing a powerful take on Little Big Town’s “Girl Crush,” he earned a golden ticket to Hollywood Week and sparked early buzz for his authentic voice and inspiring backstory.
Musical Roots and The Rumfelt Family
Braden grew up in the Nantahala Mountains area, part of a close-knit musical family led by his father, Chris Rumfelt. The Rumfelt Family blends southern gospel, bluegrass, and contemporary Christian sounds, performing at churches, camp meetings, and events.
Chris, a pastor and songwriter, has guided the group for years, releasing originals like “The Greatest Love Story” and “I’m Still Tryin’.” Braden’s voice stands out naturally praised in local circles for its soulful tone and emotional delivery.
Church Performances and Local Recognition
He’s a familiar voice at places like First Free Will Baptist Church in nearby Hayesville, where he sings worship favorites such as “Chain Breaker.” Community pages and local radio have long highlighted him as a standout talent from Murphy High School (class of around 2022).
Before Idol, his covers and family performances circulated on YouTube and Facebook, building a grassroots following in western North Carolina.
Braden Rumfelt Bio
- Full name: Braden Rumfelt
- Age: 22 years old (as of his 2026 American Idol audition)
- Hometown: Murphy, North Carolina, USA
- Known for: American Idol Season 24 audition, performances with The Rumfelt Family gospel group, Christian and country-influenced singing
- Occupation: Singer, musician, substitute teacher; member of family music ministry
Braden Rumfelt on American Idol 2026
Season and Episode Details
Braden appeared in American Idol Season 24 (2026) auditions, featured in Week 2 episodes that aired in early February. Local North Carolina outlets like WLOS spotlighted the twin brothers from Murphy ahead of the January 26 premiere and February 2 broadcast.
Braden Rumfelt American Idol Audition Song
He chose “Girl Crush” by Little Big Town for his audition, performing alongside his twin brother Kellen on guitar. The rendition was honest, powerful, and full of emotion hitting the big notes with confidence.
Judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan were impressed: Carrie called it “surprising” and happy-making, Lionel praised the sweet high-end texture (comparing it to Steve Perry vibes), and Luke predicted a strong run ahead. All three gave yes votes, sending him to Hollywood Week (set in Nashville this season).
A congenital leg condition required surgeries that ended his baseball dreams (he played at Murphy High School with his brother), but that pivot led him to music full-time. He shared how singing now brings him the most joy.
Braden Rumfelt Style, Influences and Online Performances
Vocal Style and Genre
Braden’s style mixes country soul, Christian worship, and pop ballad elements—powerful, clear, and emotionally direct. He handles covers like Coldplay’s “Sparks” or Sam Smith’s “I’m Not the Only One” with ease, showing range across genres.
Social Media and Streaming