I’m not normally a reality TV fan, though occasionally the various talent shows grab my attention because I love music. That said, something on American Idol has western North Carolina buzzing.
Murphy’s own Braden Rumfelt is one of the final seven contestants on the show, and WNC could have its own American Idol. His extended family lives in Franklin and Hayesville.
Needless to say, when I received an email from a man saying he’s Braden’s “papaw” (BT Douthit) asking for some help getting the word out, I felt Macon Sense had to step up. Now, we’re asking our readers to get in on the act.
The show airs tomorrow night (Monday, April 27) at 8:00 p.m. on ABC, streaming on Hulu, YouTubeTV, Fubo and Spectrum.
According to papaw, the former teacher at Carolina Christian Academy began the audition process over a year ago. Rumfelt took part in a number of Zoom calls with producers, and was invited to Nashville in November for his first live performance. The Murphy resident took his twin brother and guitar player Kellen with him.
Braden sang “Girl Crush” that impressed judges – Lionel Ritchie, Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood – enough to move on in the competition..
On Monday night’s episode, the remaining seven contestants will battle it out. Live voting takes place during the show. Idol will give instructions as to how to vote all through the broadcast.
According to Douthit, the community can help by following @Bradenrumfelt on Facebook (and Instagram), “liking” and sharing his past performances, voting, and also inviting family and friends to vote. Businesses can support Braden through posters, Facebook pages, digital signs, and radio promotions.
Of course, and according to Douthit, Braden wishes to thank his supporters who helped him get this far. What he needs now are as many votes as possible during the two-hour show Monday night.
I’ll be watching, and voting.
