Larry Starstruck writes ....
Keith Richards was never a member of the Yardbirds at all. He was a member of the Rolling Stones. However, I think you may have meant to ask about Keith Reif, the original lead singer. He left the group in 1968, which would coincide with the end of the classic era of that group. In fact, rhythm guitarist, Chris Deja, is the only member of the group that played on every recording. On a side note, Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones and John Bonham toured as the New Yardbirds as a way to end the contractual obligations of the group. As you know, this group would become Led Zeppelin in 1968.
