CHRIS Dreja, the co-founder of the influential 1960s band The Yardbirds, has died at the age of 79.
His sister-in-law shared the tragic news online.
The rocker was part of the band for its entire original life and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, along with the group.
Muriel Levy said Chris had been battling health issues for a number of years.
She said: "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."
Tributes have already been pouring in.
One person wrote: "Oh this is horrible news. I am so very sorry. My schoolgirl fave band was the Yardbirds. RIP Chris."
Another posted: "My condolences to you and your family at this sad time, rest in peace."
While a third added: "So sorry to hear the very sad news about your super talented brother."
A fourth commented: "I am so sorry for your loss. The Yardbirds music was awesome, thanks."
Dreja, along with Anthony Topham, Keith Relf, Jim McCarthy and Paul Samwell-Smith, founded The Yardbirds in 1963.
The line-up would go on to feature such guitar heroes as Eric Clapton, who replaced Topham, Jeff Beck, who took over from Clapton and Jimmy Page, who would form Led Zeppelin.
The band quickly became massively popular thanks to their debut album For Your Love, which featured the huge hits like Heart Full of Soul and I'm a Man.
The follow-up, Over Under Sideways Down, also contained two big chart hits.
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