The Norsk Høstfest always brings popular artists and performers and one of the most recognizable names this year is the Oak Ridge Boys.

Consisting of members Duane Allen, Joe Bonsall, William Lee Golden, and Richard Sterban, the group has been a band for nearly 44 years and is still going strong.

Allen and Golden have been a part of the Oak Ridge Boys for 50 years. Bonsall joined in 1973 and Sterban joined in 1972. Before the Oak Ridge Boys, Sterban sang with Elvis Presley, describing it as a special time and an amazing experience. When he joined the Oak Ridge Boys, leaving Elvis, many thought he was crazy, but he knew he was doing the right thing. Now after 45 years of being in the band, he still believes that.

“We have a special relationship,” Sterban said. “Each guy is different and brings something different to the band, but over the years, we’ve learned to respect each other. We learned a long time ago that we need each other and that has made us into more than friends. We’re a brotherhood.”

The Oak Ridge Boys have performed for many years in many different places. In 2015, they were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, something that they see as a huge honor and can’t express how special it is to them to be in there.

They have also been working alongside Blake Shelton the last year, creating the song “Doing it to Country Songs.” They performed the song with Shelton on stage at the CMAs, with some of the hit classic Elvira being added on to the end. Sterban described the experience as a highlight because everyone was up and singing, knowing the words even to Elvira – released when many weren’t even yet born.

When asked why he thought the band was still so popular after so many years, Sterban said, “There are several reasons. We love doing what we do, even after all these years, and we are still having fun. We work well together, too, and we stay true to ourselves even when we are trying new things in our music.”

The band has performed in Minot for many, many years, Sterban said. They always look forward to it.

“Coming to Minot is like coming home. We’ve been there so much over the years that it’s practically become a second home,” Sterban joked.

They will be performing many of their familiar songs, gospel music and patriotic songs. Sterban described it as a great time and good family entertainment with something for all ages to enjoy.

They will be performing Sept. 27 at 1 p.m.

Tickets are available at www.hostfest.com.