Chris Dreja, a founding member of and guitarist for the legendary rock band the Yardbirds, has died. He was 79.

His sister-in-law, Muriel Levy, announced the news on social media.

“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,” she wrote. “I share the pain with my sister Kate who took care of him during all thoses years and his daughter Jackie. ... May he RIP”

Dreja founded the Yardbirds in 1965 with vocalist Keith Relf, lead guitarist Top Topham, bassist Paul Samwell-Smith and drummer Jim McCarty.

The band became famous for its blues rock sound as well as a rotating number of lead guitarists that included Eric

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