Chris Dreja, founding guitarist and bassist of The Yardbirds, has died at 79. His death was confirmed by his sister-in-law, Muriel Levy, and bandmate Jimmy Page, who honored him as a musician whose “passion and creativity shaped rock music.” Dreja had faced long-term health issues, cared for by his wife, Kate.

Born Christopher Walenty Dreja in 1945, he co-founded The Yardbirds in 1963, a band known for its “raw, blues-driven sound” and energetic “rave-up” performances. They produced classics like For Your Love, Heart Full of Soul, and Shapes of Things, and became the starting point for legends Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page.

Originally rhythm guitarist, Dreja switched to bass when Page joined in 1966. After the band split, Page invited him to join Led Zeppelin, but Dreja chose a photography career instead, later shooting the back cover for Zeppelin’s debut album.

The Yardbirds’ mix of blues, pop, psychedelia, and early hard rock left a lasting mark on music, inspiring countless artists.

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992, Dreja is remembered as a “true pioneer” whose artistry helped define the sound of modern rock.