Submitted Photo William Kenneth Alphin, known as Big Kenny, performs on stage during Norsk Hostfest Wednesday night in this photo from Arlington Photo, West Fargo. Big Kenny and John Rich make up the duo Big & Rich, a country band that helped kick off the first night of the festival.

Submitted Photo John Rich, of the duo Big & Rich, sings on stage during Norsk Hostfest Wednesday night in this photo from Arlington Photo, West Fargo. Big & Rich, comprised of Rich and William Kenneth Alphin, known as Big Kenny, helped kick off the first night of the festival. Big & Rich appeared on the country music scene nearly 20 years ago but Rich and Big Kenny have been recording music either individually or with other bands since the 1990s.