Former Manowar Guitarist Ross 'The Boss' Friedman Passes Away, Aged 72

Ross The Boss

Ross Friedman, best known as the former guitarist of heavy metal titans Manowar and The Dictators, and for performing as Ross The Boss, has passed away. He was 72.

The news arrives a month after the guitarist revealed that he’d been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), in which a fundraising campaign was launched to help pay for his medical bills, Louder Sound reports.

The Metal Hall of Fame confirmed Friedman’s passing in a statement. “It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of legendary guitarist, our dear friend, and Metal Hall of Fame Inductee Ross ‘The Boss' Friedman,’ the statement reads. “Ross was a pioneering force in both punk and heavy metal, best known as a founding member of The Dictators and Manowar.”

The statement continued, “Ross will always be the Metal Hall of Fame’s ‘Global Metal Ambassador’ to the world. His powerful playing, unmistakable tone, and uncompromising spirit helped shape generations of musicians and fans around the world.”

Adding that Friedman’s impact on music was “immeasurable,” from his early punk playing to heavy metal, “his work left a lasting mark on the genre and on everyone who experienced it.”

“Beyond his achievements on stage and in the studio, Ross was deeply respected by his peers and beloved by fans across continents. His legacy will live on through his music, his influence, and the countless lives he touched,” the statement continued.

The Metal Hall of Fame concluded, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, bandmates, and fans worldwide during this difficult time. Further details will be shared as they become available.”

Friedman was inducted into the Metal Hall of Fame in 2017.

In a statement, Manowar added, “It is with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of Ross ‘The Boss’ Friedman, following his recently announced ALS diagnosis.

“Music was Ross’s life, and he left his mark across both heavy metal and punk rock. Our condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans everywhere. Rest in peace, Ross.”

In early February, Friedman’s publicist announced that the guitarist had been diagnosed with ALS, Blabbermouth reports. They revealed that his diagnosis arrived after “several months of seemingly unrelated symptoms that included weakness in his hands and legs,” as well as “a series of very minor strokes.”

At the time, Friedman added, “It's difficult to know what lies ahead, and it crushes me not to be able to play guitar, but the outpouring of love has been so, so strong. I’m absolutely blown away by the love and support from family, friends and fans. I love you all.”

ALS is a progressive, fatal neurodegenerative disease. It destroys motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and loss of voluntary muscle control.

Friedman founded proto-punk outfit The Dictators in 1973. After playing on their first three albums, he moved to Europe and joined Shakin’ Street.

The latter band disbanded in 1981, but Friedman had already joined Manowar alongside singer Eric Adams, bassist Joey DeMaio, and drummer Donnie Hamzik. He played on the band’s first six albums and was asked to leave following the release of 1988’s Kings of Metal.

Ross The Boss returned to Australia last May, bringing an all-star band featuring Marc Lopes (Metal Church), Dirk Schlächter (Gamma Ray), and former Manowar drummer Rhino. Together, they performed Manowar’s 1984 album, Sign of the Hammer.