Popular country music is not known for being very innovative. Relying chiefly on a time-honored sound and subject matter, country music is largely impervious to the stylistic changes that sweep across the rest of the rock-n-roll spectrum every few years. Given this, Big and Rich's popularity in mainstream country music circles comes as something of a surprise. Combining country sound with elements of harder rock and hip-hop in what they jokingly refer to as "hick-hop", Big and Rich's novel approach to country music has earned them both acclaim and controversy within the country music community.

While some critics find the country-rap trend (pioneered by artists like Kid Rock and Everlast) unappealing, Big and Rich's flashy, tongue-in-cheek musical style has been largely accepted by critics and country music fans alike. Prior to forming Big and Rich, "Big" Kenny Alphin and John Rich were more conventional country musicians playing with "MuzicMafia", an informal collective of musicians and artists who played together throughout Nashville, Tennessee. The two began performing acts together billed as "Big and Rich", and quickly became a crowd favorite. Their offbeat musical influences and dual-melody vocalization set them apart from the pack, and they signed to Warner Brothers records in 2004 after impressing a WB executive with their eclectic live show.

The duo released two albums in 2004, multi-platinum Horse of a Different Color and the lesser known compilation CD Big & Rich's Super Galactic Fan Pack. The video for their #11 hit single Save A Horse (Ride a Cowboy) - which features the duo strumming guitars and riding horses across Nashville, followed by a marching band, scantily-clad cowgirls, and a dancing midget - clearly demonstrates Big and Rich’s humorous take on country music.

Big and Rich Videos