Chris Dreja, the founding guitarist of the legendary British band The Yardbirds, has died at 79 after battling years of health problems. His sister-in-law, Muriel Levy, confirmed the news and praised Dreja’s wife, Kate, for her unwavering care. Former bandmate Jimmy Page also paid tribute, remembering Dreja’s passionate contributions on guitar and bass.
Born in 1945 in England, Dreja co-founded The Yardbirds in 1963. The band became famous for hits like “For Your Love” and helped launch iconic guitarists such as Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck. Dreja was known for his versatile style and commitment to the group’s experimental sound.
After the band split in 1968, Dreja chose a career in photography, even capturing the back cover of Led Zeppelin’s debut album. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with The Yardbirds in 1992.
