Anthony “Top” Topham, the original guitarist of English rock band The Yardbirds, has died aged 75.
The late musician, who was in the iconic band with Keith Relf, Paul Samwell-Smith, Chris Dreja and Jim McCarty in the 1960s, died earlier this week.
Confirming his passing, a statement from Anthony’s representative said: “Sanderson Rasjid, born Anthony ‘Top’ Topham, passed away peacefully on Monday January 23 surrounded by his family.”
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They then went and even gave an insight into Anthony’s health, adding: “Born in London on July 3, 1947, he was 75 years old and had been fighting dementia in his final years.”
(Image: PA)
Although born as Anthony, the musician who dabbled in interior design, took on the name of Sanderson Rasjid after he joined the Subud spiritual movement.
It was in May 1963 that Anthony joined The Yardbirds for a short-lived stint with the other four memebers.
He then he decided to leave in the same year that he joined, with him departing in October and soon getting replaced.
(Image: David Magnus/REX/Shutterstock)
When Anthony left The Yardbirds he was replaced by Eric Clapton, who remained in the group until 1965 when he quit and was replaced by the late Jeff Beck.
The original guitarist, Anthony’s death comes two weeks after his Yardbirds successor, Jeff, died from bacterial meningitis.
It was confirmed on January 11 that Jeff Beck has died after “suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis”.
(Image: Handout)
Writing on Jeff’s social media earlier this month, loved ones penned: “On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of Jeff Beck’s passing.
“After suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis, he peacefully passed away yesterday. His family ask for privacy while they process this tremendous loss.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
