Ross 'The Boss' Friedman, the legendary guitarist known for his work with The Dictators and Manowar, has died at the age of 72. The news was confirmed by the Metal Hall Of Fame, just weeks after a fundraising campaign was launched to support his medical care following a diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease.
In a statement, the Metal Hall Of Fame described Friedman as a pioneering force in both punk and heavy metal. '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,' the statement read.
Friedman founded proto-punk pioneers The Dictators in 1973, playing on their first three albums before moving to Europe to join French hard rock band Shakin’ Street. In 1980, he left Shakin’ Street to become a founding member of Manowar, alongside bassist Joey DeMaio, singer Eric Adams, and drummer Donnie Hamzik. The band gained notoriety for their onstage outfits, including loincloths and fur, and for signing a record contract in blood to symbolise their dedication to heavy metal.
Friedman recorded five albums with Manowar, including 'Battle Hymns', 'Into Glory Ride', and 'Hail To England', before being asked to leave the band in 1988. He later played with several other acts, including Manitoba’s Wild Kingdom, The Hellacopters, and The Nomads, and had two further stints with The Dictators, who released their sixth album in 2024.
'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,' the Metal Hall Of Fame added. 'His legacy will live on through his music, his influence, and the countless lives he touched.'
