Metal Legend Ross ‘The Boss’ Friedman Dies at 72
Ross ‘The Boss’ Friedman, legendary guitarist for Manowar, The Dictators, and Shakin’ Street, has passed away at 72 after battling ALS.
It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Ross “The Boss” Friedman, former guitarist for Manowar, The Dictators, and Shakin’ Street, at the age of 72.
The news was confirmed by the Metal Hall Of Fame, following a recent fundraising campaign to support the musician's medical care after his diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
"Ross was a pioneering force in both punk and heavy metal, best known as a founding member of The Dictators and Manowar,” the statement read. “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 continued: “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.”
In 1973, Friedman founded proto-punk pioneers The Dictators. After contributing to their first three albums, he joined French hard rock band Shakin’ Street, replacing original guitarist Armik Tigrane.
Following Shakin’ Street's disbandment in 1981, Friedman joined the mythology-inspired Manowar, alongside bassist Joey DeMaio, singer Eric Adams, and drummer Donnie Hamzik. The band quickly gained notoriety for their striking stage presence – particularly their loincloths and fur – and for famously signing a record contract in blood, symbolizing their unwavering dedication to heavy metal.
Manowar
“We wanted to look like something never before seen in heavy metal,” Friedman told Classic Rock. “We wanted to be wilder than just denim and leather. What would be wilder? Animal fur!”
After recording five albums with Manowar – including acclaimed works like ‘Battle Hymns’, ‘Into Glory Ride’, and ‘Hail To England’ – Friedman departed the band in 1988. He subsequently collaborated with various acts, including Manitoba’s Wild Kingdom, The Hellacopters, The Nomads, the Brain Surgeons, and Burning Star, in addition to two reunions with The Dictators, who released their sixth album in 2024.
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