While Tom Petty has played more Summerfest Amphitheater shows here than anyone else one of the most prolific performers of the Summerfest ground stage scene over the years is none other than singer, songwriter and comedian Pat McCurdy.

McCurdy has been a fixture at the Big Gig since his first fest in 1974. In the 1990s and 2000s he often performed three times day with a big 10:00 PM finish at the old comedy tent. Now he usually plays once every Summerfest but keeps an incredibly busy schedule of 23 performances this month alone. He performs in La Crosse Friday, Janesville Saturday and New London Sunday.

With an unusual off-beat sense of humor, the talented musician and funny guy has been able to carve out a niche drawing in a big college crowd but also baby boomers who remember his early days.