Don’t miss show at Blesbokspruit
Billed as an ‘Oke from Springs and a Bloke from London’, Henry Crabb and Dave Abbott met in 1977 at Cairngorm Caravan Park near Springs.
The Eastern Gauteng Chamber of Commerce and Industry (EGCCI) will be hosting Abbott and Crabb on the banks of the Blesbokspruit on April 6.
Billed as an ‘Oke from Springs and a Bloke from London’, Henry Crabb and Dave Abbott met in 1977 at Cairngorm Caravan Park near Springs.
Henry’s Band, Eternal Now, was doing an afternoon show and the drummer had invited Dave along for a jam.
Dave plugged into Henry’s amp, and so a partnership began.
Between Dave’s work in the hotel business and Henry’s work as an Engineering rep, they would get together in the afternoons and at weekends and play just for the fun of it.
After a while they both realised they just wanted to play music more than go to work so they turned the hobby into their careers.
The duo auditioned with Maurice Fresco who got them their first pro gig at the Rebel Inn in Benoni on November 1, 1978.
The hotel manager at the time needed a name to advertise, so he christened them Abbott and Crabb … and so the journey started.
“If you’ve lived in South Africa, and you don’t know Abbott & Crabb … we wonder where you’ve been hiding,” says event organiser Barbara-Ann Day.
“Dave and Henry’s unique blend of comedy and music have had audiences laughing and singing from Cape Town to Lusaka, Johannesburg to Swakopmund, Durban to … just about anywhere there are people.
“Most people are amazed to find that they can actually play their instruments, and rather well at that.
“They are both vocalists and guitarists and their music ranges from bluegrass to rock.
“Dave’s an adept fiddle player and Henry’s handy on the banjo,” she says adding: “Dave’s guitar playing and musical talents coupled with Henry’s humour are an awesome combination.”
The show will take place at Plot 44, Newby Road, Grootvaly starting at 5pm.
Bring your picnic, blankets, camp chairs and family for an entertaining evening under the stars.
Tickets cost R150 per person and can be bought from either Anita Greeff or Marinda de Waal on 011 815 5750 or chambspr@intekom.co.za or from Day on 082 450 1130.
