MURPHY, N.C. (WLOS) — Twin brothers from Murphy are stepping into the national spotlight Monday, Feb. 2, when Kellen and Braden Rumfelt appear on ABC’s “American Idol.”
Braden will audition during this week’s episode, with his twin brother Kellen by his side, not just for moral support, but as his musical partner. Kellen will accompany Braden as he sings his way through the audition process.
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The brothers say they’ve been performing together for as long as they can remember. According to Kellen, they grew up singing bluegrass gospel music at their church in Murphy, laying the foundation for their shared musical journey.
While he couldn’t say much about the audition, Kellen did tell News 13 his brother hopes to remain true to his musical roots with some contemporary Christian song choices.

The competition heats up as American Idol auditions continue.{ } Twin brother Kellen Rumfelt, with guitar in hand,{ } accompanies Braden Rumfelt, both of Murphy, NC, as Braden chases his dream of becoming the next American Idol.{ } (Disney/Eric McCandless){ }
While Braden is the one auditioning for “American Idol,” now in its ninth season on ABC, both brothers are asking for the community’s support. Several watch parties are planned throughout the Murphy area on Monday night.
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As for the big moment, Braden and Kellen plan to watch the episode alongside their fellow bandmates in the Braden Rumfelt Band in a small gathering.
Braden and Kellen graduated from Murphy High School and are often seen at Western Carolina University, where Kellen continued his education.
In western North Carolina, you can watch “American Idol” on WLOS starting at 8 p.m., Monday, Feb. 2.