After announcing in February that he was suffering from ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), news reaches us that Ross Friedman, formerly of The Dictators and Manowar, has died. The Metal Hall of Fame broke / confirmed the news with the following statement:
It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of legendary guitarist, our dear friend, Metal Hall of Fame Inductee, and Global Metal Ambassador Ross “The Boss” Friedman.
Ross was a pioneering force in both punk and heavy metal, best known as a founding member of The Dictators and Manowar. His powerful playing, unmistakable tone, and uncompromising spirit helped shape generations of musicians and fans around the world.
Earlier this year, Ross publicly shared his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), facing it with the same courage and honesty that defined his life and career.
Ross’s impact on music is immeasurable. From the raw energy of early punk to the epic scale of 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.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.
As always, our throughts go out to Friedman’s family, friend, and those he worked with. And we choose to remember him with some of the music that will always remain to remind us of what he gave. He was indicted into the Hall of Fame for his services to speed metal, so it seems fitting that we go with a classic Manowar track to send him off.
Header photo by Gary Cooper
