Ross Friedman, known widely as Ross “The Boss,” the guitarist who rose to prominence with The Dictators and later played with Manowar, has died at the age of 72. His passing was announced on March 27 via his official Instagram account, which said he died “after battling ALS.”
Diagnosis and announcement
Friedman had publicly revealed an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis on Feb. 9. The Instagram announcement posted March 27 stated, “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of the Bronx’ own Ross ‘The Boss,’ Friedman who died last night after battling ALS.” The message described him as “a legendary guitarist and beloved father,” and thanked fans for their support during his career and in the months following his diagnosis.
Career and legacy
Friedman was best known for his work as the guitarist for punk pioneers The Dictators and for his role with the heavy metal band Manowar. Often billed as Ross the Boss, he also led the Ross the Boss Band and collaborated with other artists over a long career. The announcement said his music and spirit “impacted fans around the world” and noted that “his legacy with The Dictators, Manowar, Ross the Boss Band and other collabs will live on forever in our hearts and ears.”
Reaction and tributes
Fans and family responded to the announcement with an outpouring of condolences on Instagram. The post quoted in the announcement thanked followers for their “outpouring of love and support” and said, “His music meant everything to him & his guitar was his life’s breath. This insidious disease took that away from him.”
Comments shared in the wake of the news reflected deep appreciation for Friedman’s work: one user wrote, “RIP Immortal Boss, thank you for the music!” Another wrote, “Oh no! 💔 R.I.P Ross 🎸 My heart goes out to all his loved ones and friends. 🙏🏻.” A different comment read, “Devastating news! Rest in power, Ross! You were part of my life for nearly 30 years. You will never be forgotten. Your music will live forever.”
The family statement and social posts linked in the original announcement are part of the public record; the Instagram notice and the quoted passages were provided by Friedman’s official account.
Notes
The announcement did not disclose a specific place of death. Further details beyond the statement published on March 27 have not been provided in the sources referenced here.
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