News of Friedman’s passing was announced through a statement posted on the Metal Hall of Fame’s social media channels.

“It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of legendary guitarist, our dear friend, and Metal Hall Of Fame inductee Ross ‘The Boss’ Friedman,” the statement read.

“Ross was a pioneering force in both punk and heavy metal, best known as a founding member of THE DICTATORS and MANOWAR.

“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.

“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.”

A separate statement shared on Ross’s Facebook page reads as follows:

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of the Bronx’s own Ross ‘The Boss’ Friedman who died last night after battling ALS.

“A legendary guitarist and beloved father, his music and spirit impacted fans around the world as much as you impacted him.

“We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support you all have shown throughout his career and especially these last few months.

“His music meant everything to him & his guitar was his life’s breath. This insidious disease took that away from him. His legacy with THE DICTATORS, MANOWAR, ROSS THE BOSS and other collabs will live on forever in our hearts and ears.”

Rest in Peace, Ross.

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A statement from Ross’s publicist reads as follows: “Ross ‘The Boss’ Friedman, founding member of punk rock legends THE DICTATORS and heavy metal stalwarts MANOWAR, has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS),commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. The diagnosis followed several months of seemingly unrelated symptoms that included weakness in his hands and legs. A series of very minor strokes was initially thought to have been the cause, but changes in diet, exercise and added physical therapy did nothing to slow the progression or increase his strength”.

Friedman, 72 years old now, added in his own statement: “It’s difficult to know what lies ahead, and it crushes me not to be able to play guitar, but the outpouring of love has been so, so strong. I’m absolutely blown away by the love and support from family, friends and fans. I love you all”.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and ultimately fatal neurodegenerative disorder that attacks the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to increasing muscle weakness, paralysis, and the gradual loss of voluntary movement.

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by Dimitris Zacharopoulos

Ross’s musical odyssey began in earnest with the formation of the Dictators in 1973, alongside Andy Shernoff. This punk rock band emerged from New Paltz, New York, and quickly established itself as a pioneer in the genre. Their debut album, “The Dictators Go Girl Crazy!” (1975), was a bold blend of punk’s raw energy and rock’s melodic sensibilities. Ross’s guitar work on tracks like “The Next Big Thing” and “Two Tub Man” showcased his distinctive style, characterized by ferocious riffs and infectious hooks.

Over the next few years, the Dictators released two more albums: “Manifest Destiny” (1977) and “Bloodbrothers” (1978). Despite not achieving mainstream success, these records cemented the Dictators’ status as punk legends and highlighted Ross’s ability to blend aggression with melody.

After his stint with the Dictators, Ross moved to France and joined Fabienne Shine’s band, Shakin’ Street. This period broadened his musical horizons and prepared him for his next monumental venture. During the 1980 Black Sabbath’s Heaven and Hell Tour, Ross was introduced to bassist Joey DeMaio by the iconic Ronnie James Dio. This meeting led to the formation of Manowar later that year, a band that would redefine the heavy metal genre.

Manowar’s debut album, “Battle Hymns” (1982), was a triumph of their grandiose vision and unwavering commitment to heavy metal. Ross’s guitar prowess was evident in tracks like “Manowar” and “Dark Avenger,” where his soaring solos and crushing riffs became a staple of the band’s sound. Over the next six years, Manowar released a series of influential albums, including “Into Glory Ride” (1983), “Hail to England” (1984), “Sign of the Hammer” (1984), “Fighting the World” (1987), and “Kings of Metal” (1988). These records featured anthems such as “Hail and Kill”, “Carry On” and “Kings of Metal” with Ross’s guitar work being a driving force behind the band’s epic sound.

After departing from Manowar in 1988, Ross continued to explore his musical passions. He rejoined his Dictators bandmates in Manitoba’s Wild Kingdom, releasing the critically acclaimed “…And You?” in 1990. This album, with its heavy rotation on MTV, marked a return to the punk rock roots.

In the mid-90s, Ross formed Heyday, a blues rock band, and later collaborated with the Spinatras, resulting in the release of “@Midnight.com” (1999). These projects highlighted his versatility and ability to traverse various musical styles seamlessly.

The late 90s saw the Dictators reunite, with Ross playing a pivotal role in their resurgence. Their 2001 album, “D.F.F.D.”, was a return to form, blending punk’s rebellious spirit with seasoned musicianship. The subsequent live album, “Viva Dictators”, captured the band’s electrifying performances across Europe.

Ross’s collaboration with Albert Bouchard of Blue Öyster Cult in the band Brain Surgeons and his work on the instrumental album |”Thunderboss” with JP Thunderbolt Patterson further showcased his diverse talents. His participation in various festivals and special performances, including the Earthshaker Festival with Manowar and the Keep It True Festival, underscored his enduring influence in the metal community.

In 2008, Ross formed the Ross the Boss Band, that released “New Metal Leader” (2008) and “Hailstorm” (2010), both of which received critical acclaim. The band’s fusion of classic metal elements with contemporary flair demonstrated Ross’s ability to evolve while staying true to his roots.

In 2012, Ross co-founded the metal supergroup Death Dealer, releasing “War Master” (2013) and “Hallowed Ground” (2015). These albums, characterized by their relentless energy and technical brilliance, reaffirmed Ross’s status as a metal maestro.

On January 18, 2017, Ross was honored with induction into the Hall of Heavy Metal History for his pivotal contributions to metal during his time with Manowar.

His latest albums as a solo artist are “By Blood Sworn” (2018) and “Born of Fire” (2020).

In 2022, he made a guest appearance on “Armpits of Immortals”, a track by the Italian comedy heavy metal band Nanowar of Steel.

Ross the Boss’s contributions to punk rock and heavy metal are monumental. His innovative guitar work, combined with his passion for music, has inspired countless musicians and fans worldwide. Ross is a true trailblazer in the rock and metal genres.

Beyond music, Ross also manages a small business, The Cage Baseball NYC, with his family, showcasing his multifaceted talents and dedication to both his craft and his loved ones.

Ross the Boss’ wild ride, from the streets of Bronx to the global stage, is a story of passion and commitment to artistic excellence. As he continues to create and perform, Ross the Boss remains a true titan of the music world. We the Greek fans will have the privilege to enjoy Ross The Boss and his band, live at Temple live stage in Athens, Greece, with support by Lazy Man’s Load and Subfire, on the 8^th of July, 2024. Can’t wait til then!!!

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