All these musicians we grew up with — the ones who started out in garages, basements, and living rooms before rising to international fame — became the soundtrack to our lives. They set the bar for every band that followed, inspiring countless young musicians to pick up a guitar and dream. And every time one of them leaves us, it feels like a small piece of our own story is gone too. Today, that loss is deeply felt: Chris Dreja, the founding guitarist of The Yardbirds and the only member to play on every one of the band’s releases, has passed away at 79.

Years of health problems
Chris Dreja, rhythm guitarist turned bassist for the legendary Yardbirds — and later an acclaimed rock photographer — has passed away at 79. His death was confirmed by his sister-in-law, Muriel Levy, and former bandmate Jimmy Page.

Page paid tribute on Instagram, writing: “I heard today of the passing of musician Chris Dreja, who passionately played with the iconic Yardbirds, on rhythm guitar and then the bass. I hadn’t seen him in a while, and I wish I had. RIP Chris. Here’s Glimpses by The Yardbirds featuring Chris Dreja on bass.”