The Yardbirds’ star dies at age 79

Chris Dreja, founding guitarist of The Yardbirds and the only member to appear on all the band’s releases, has passed away at 79. Known for shaping the sound of one of rock’s most influential bands, his death was confirmed by his sister-in-law Muriel Levy and former bandmate Jimmy Page.

Dreja, who transitioned from rhythm guitar to bass in the band, also became an acclaimed rock photographer. Levy noted he had faced “years of health problems,” and praised his wife Kate for supporting him throughout his illness. Page paid tribute on Instagram, recalling Dreja’s passionate musicianship.

Born Christopher Walenty Dreja in 1945, he co-founded The Yardbirds in 1963. While the band never reached the commercial success of some peers, their impact on rock music was immense, launching the careers of Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page.

The Yardbirds began as a blues-driven group famous for their “rave-up” jams. They later explored pop, psychedelia, and the early heavy guitar sounds that influenced hard rock, punk, and even prog music. Dreja described the band as democratic and eclectic, a close-knit group of young musicians experimenting freely.

Originally on rhythm guitar, Dreja moved to bass when Page joined in 1966. He later declined an invitation to join Led Zeppelin, choosing instead to focus on photography, including shooting the back cover of Led Zeppelin’s debut album.

Dreja reflected on leaving the band, saying that while Page remained energized, the original members were ready to move on and pursue personal passions, away from the pressures of the music industry.

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992, Chris Dreja leaves a legacy as both a pioneering musician and a talented photographer. His contributions helped define rock’s evolution, inspiring generations of artists to follow.