Chris Dreja

British musician

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July 20, 2026

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Chris Dreja was a British musician, born on November 11, 1946, and passed away on September 25, 2025. He was a founding member of the influential 1960s rock band The Yardbirds. Dreja played bass guitar in the band's original lineup, which also included Keith Relf, Eric Clapton, Jim McCarty, and Paul Samwell-Smith. The Yardbirds were known for their innovative blend of rhythm and blues with rock music and for launching the careers of guitarists Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page.

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the Yardbirds
Eric Clapton, bassist Chris Dreja, drummer Jim McCarty, bassist Paul Samwell-Smith, and guitarist Anthony (“Top”) Topham. Later members were Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page.
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Eric Clapton, bassist Chris Dreja, drummer Jim McCarty, bassist Paul Samwell-Smith, and guitarist Anthony (“Top”) Topham. Later members were Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page.
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