On the Feb. 23 episode of Season 24 of “American Idol,” the remaining 127 contestants took on Hollywood Week. Instead of heading to Los Angeles, these Idol hopefuls traveled to Nashville, Tennessee — better known as Music City — where they performed in front of a band, which for some was the first time.
During the first leg of Hollywood Week, plenty of contestants wowed the judges, but one performance, in particular, left a lasting impression on judge Luke Bryan. When 22-year-old Braden Rumfelt delivered a soulful rendition of Sam Smith’s “I’m Not the Only One,” Bryan was so struck by the performance that he made a bold prediction about the singer’s future in the competition.
Luke Bryan Suggested Contestant Braden Rumfelt ‘May Win’ ‘American Idol’
After contestant Braden Rumfelt delivered a powerful performance of Sam Smith’s “I’m Not the Only One” during Hollywood Week, he received a standing ovation from all three judges — Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie — marking one of the standout moments of the night.
Bryan was first to comment on his performance, sharing, “Man, can you make it look harder next time?”
“We knew you were special in your audition,” he continued. “We knew it. We felt it. We’re here to support you. We’re here to lift you up. We want you to have fun. And, man, you picked the perfect song.”
After Rumfelt left the stage, Bryan was then heard telling Underwood, “He may win.” A bold prediction, given that there is so much more talent to hear.
However, the episode ended on a cliffhanger, leaving it unclear whether Rumfelt ultimately secured a spot in the Top 30. Still, based on what Bryan said following his performance, it feels inevitable that he’ll advance in the competition.
Rumfelt’s Audition Wowed the Judges
Rumfelt auditioned in front of the three judges by singing “Girl Crush” by Little Big Town. With the help of his twin brother playing the guitar, Rumfelt gave an emotionally charged performance that instantly captured the judges’ attention.
“I don’t know what I expected to come out of your mouth, but that wasn’t it and it made me happy,” Underwood shared, adding that Rumfelt looked “very nervous.”
“I think you’re a race horse man,” Bryan then said, with Richie complimenting Rumfelt’s voice.
Although the judges encouraged Rumfelt to “loosen up” during his audition, they may not have realized the deeply personal journey that shaped him. Before turning to music, he had dreams of playing professional baseball.
“Unfortunately, going into high school, I was starting having knee pain in both of my legs, so then I found out that I have a congenital issue,” he shared.
After undergoing two lower-leg realignment surgeries, his hopes of becoming a professional athlete were dashed. What could have been a devastating setback ultimately redirected his path, leading him to pour that same discipline and passion into music.
“Growing up until now, I always felt that his talent is music, is singing, and I couldn’t be more proud of Braden because of everything that he’s going through, where he is at now with pursuing his new dream. He’s my hero,” his brother shared.
It’s unfortunate you voted off some good talent that people would like to sing. It’s disappointing. This year has started on a bad start. Not worth watching