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 the Bronx’s own Ross ‘The Boss’, Friedman, who died last night after battling ALS,” the caption read. “A legendary guitarist and beloved father, his music and spirit impacted fans around the world as much as you 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 awaits us and it destroys me that I can’t play the guitar, but the outpouring of love has been so, so strong,” he said at the time.
“His music meant everything to him and his guitar was the breath of his life. This insidious disease took that away from him,” the Instagram post adds.
A founding member of The Dictators in 1973, Friedman later joined Manowar before launching Ross the Boss Band.
Inducted into the Metal Hall of Fame in 2017, his legacy continues to resonate with generations of rock fans.
