Rhythm guitarist and bassist who co-founded The Yardbirds, Chris Dreja, has sadly died aged 79. The sad news was announced by his sister-in-law Muriel Levy who shared that he had died after years of health problems. In her statement she shared a number of photos of the rocker to Threads. 

She wrote: “This is with a deep sadness that I have to announce that my brother-in-law Chris Dreja, former member of legendary band The Yardbirds, rhythm guitarist and also bass player has passed away after years of health problems.

“I share the pain with my sister Kate who took care of him during all those years and his daughter Jackie. May he RIP.”  Chris was with the band for its entire original run and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with them. 

Tributes poured in as one user wrote: “Oh this is horrible news. I am so very sorry. My schoolgirl fave band was the Yardbirds. RIP Chris.” 

Another said: “My condolences to you and your family at this sad time, rest in peace.” A third added: “So sorry to hear the very sad news about your super talented brother.” 

A fourth wrote: “I am so sorry for your loss. The Yardbirds music was awesome, thanks.” 

The rocker co-founded the group in 1963 alongside Anthony Topham, Keith Relf, Jim McCarthy and Paul Samwell-Smith. The group also consisted of Eric Clapton, who replaced Topham, Jeff Beck, who took over for Clapton and Led Zeppelin star Jimmy Page. 

The group had multiple big hits with their debut album For Your Love, alongside tracks Heart Full of Soul and I’m a Man. Their next release was Over Under Sideways Down which had an additional two hit singles.

That album, alongside Having a Rave Up, both made Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, which was a great victory for the group. They were also ranked at 89 in Rolling Stone’s list of 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. 

They were active from 1963 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1992, three decades after their original launch.Â