Rock legend Ross Friedman — the guitarist who played with The Dictators and Manowar, and was known as “Ross the Boss” — is dead at 72.
On Friday, March 27, Friedman’s official Instagram account announced his death.
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“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 update began.
It continued, “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.”
To conclude Friedman’s death announcement, the message read, “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 Band and other collabs will live on forever in our hearts and ears.”
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On Feb. 9, Friedman announced his ALS diagnosis. “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,” Friedman said in a news release. “I’m absolutely blown away by the love and support from family, friends and fans. I love you all.”
Fans flocked to the comments of the death announcement to share their condolences and prayers. One Instagram user wrote, “RIP Immortal Boss, thank you for the music!”
Another shared, “Oh no! 💔 R.I.P Ross 🎸 My heart goes out to all his loved ones and friends. 🙏🏻.”
Someone else commented, “Sad news… the first records of Manowar are magnificent and the music tracks of my youth and still are. Hail to Ross … Valhalla.”
A different fan echoed, “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. Condolences to your family 😔.”
Meanwhile, yet another Instagram user wrote, “Rest in Peace 🥲 & thank you for your beautiful creations on Earth. Valhalla is a myth, but the afterlife is beautiful. 🫸🏼🤍🫷🏼.”
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