Chris Dreja, founding guitarist and bassist of the Yardbirds, has died at 79. His passing was confirmed by his sister-in-law Muriel Levy and former bandmate
Jimmy Page, who honored his passion and contribution to rock music. Dreja had long struggled with health issues, with his wife Kate by his side throughout.
Born Christopher Walenty Dreja in 1945, he co-founded the Yardbirds in 1963. The band became famous for their
raw blues-inspired sound and energetic “rave-up” jams. Hits like For Your Love, Heart Full of Soul,
and Shapes of Things marked their success—and the group launched the careers of Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page.
Dreja began as rhythm guitarist, then switched to bass when Page joined the lineup in 1966. Later, when Page formed Led Zeppelin,
Dreja declined an invitation to join, choosing instead to focus on photography. He even shot the back cover of
Led Zeppelin’s debut album. The Yardbirds fused blues, psychedelia, pop, and early rock in inventive ways, influencing countless artists.
In recognition of his work, Dreja was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992. His death marks the loss of a rock pioneer.
He’ll be remembered not just for his musicianship, but for his creativity, vision, and lasting impact on the music world.
