Ross “The Boss” Friedman died weeks after revealing his ALS diagnosis.
The legendary guitarist, known for his work with The Dictators and Manowar, was 72 years old. The news of his death was confirmed in a statement shared on his official Instagram account on Friday, March 27.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ross ‘The Boss’ Friedman of the Bronx, who passed away last night after battling ALS,” the caption read. “Legendary guitarist and beloved father, his music and spirit have impacted fans around the world as much as you have impacted him.”
Friedman had publicly shared his ALS diagnosis on February 9, after suffering “very minor strokes” and increasing weakness in his hands and legs. “It’s hard to know what lies ahead, and it’s crushing me not being able to play guitar, but the outpouring of love has been so strong,” he said at the time.
“His music meant everything to him and his guitar was his breath of life. This insidious illness took that away from him,” the Instagram post added.
A founding member of the Dictators in 1973, Friedman then joined Manowar before launching the Ross the Boss Band.
Inducted into the Metal Hall of Fame in 2017, his legacy continues to resonate through generations of rock fans.
