Henry is the Giant in the Pit. A passionate, generous and gentle giant, Henry Engelbrecht will always be remembered for his profound influence on the local live music industry in South Africa.
For over a decade ‘Big H” – as he was affectionately known by bands, organisers, and fans – captured unfiltered, emotional, and surreal imagery of performances across the length and breadth of the country, often rapidly catapulting those he photographed onto the world stage in social and traditional media. His innate storytelling ability, deep respect for all performers and epic devotion created icons of anyone fortunate enough to be in front of his all-seeing lens.
After his sudden passing on 11 May 2021, his family, friends, artists and the people he worked with felt it was important to document his legacy. A photobook has been lovingly curated from Henry’s archives in conjunction with the art director of the hugely successful independent pressing detailing 2017’s Knysna Fire Stories. The limited-run, 224-page, full colour hardcover coffee table memoir spans local venues, bands, shows, festivals, International acts and even the magical moments within the audience. The book retails for R495 and is now available for purchase.
Published by Giant In The Pit, a Non-Profit Company (NPC 2022/316465/08), proceeds after costs will form part of a grant administrated by the Music In Africa Foundation, and utilised to further live music photography in South Africa.
