Blotto Fest to Celebrate Legendary New York Comedy Rock Band

The Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) will celebrate one of New York’s most beloved comedy rock bands this fall with the inaugural Blotto Fest, bringing together fans and local musicians for an afternoon honoring the group’s music and humor.

The event will take place Sunday, Nov. 8, at 3 p.m. at the Hall of Fame’s Stony Brook Village museum, 97 Main St. Admission is free for LIMEHOF members, included with general admission to the museum or available for a $10 concert ticket at the door.

Formed in Albany in 1978, Blotto developed a devoted following during the early MTV era with its mix of catchy rock songs, irreverent humor and over-the-top stage performances. The band became best known for songs such as “I Wanna Be a Lifeguard,” which enjoyed airplay on Long Island radio stations and helped establish Blotto as a regional favorite.

LIMEHOF Vice Chairman Tom Needham said the festival is intended to celebrate the band’s enduring appeal while creating a new annual tradition.

“Blotto proved that great rock and roll doesn’t have to take itself too seriously,” Needham said. “We hope Blotto Fest becomes an annual celebration where fans can come together to laugh, sing and keep their unforgettable spirit alive.”

The event will be hosted by Mount Sinai musician Bill Polchinski, better known as Broadway Blotto, the band’s only Long Island member. Polchinski credits his upbringing in Suffolk County, including attending Port Jefferson High School and Suffolk County Community College, with inspiring many of Blotto’s songs.

He recalled drawing from memories of garage bands, shopping malls, drive-in movies and Long Island beaches while writing music that would eventually become part of the band’s signature sound.

LIMEHOF is also inviting local bands to perform Blotto songs during the festival. Interested musicians should submit three songs they would like to perform, along with links to their website or social media and the number of performers in their group, by Aug. 28 to info@limusichalloffame.org.

Founded in 2004, LIMEHOF preserves and celebrates Long Island’s rich musical heritage and has inducted more than 130 artists and industry leaders since opening its permanent Stony Brook home in 2022.