Home / Arts and Entertainment / Guitar Legend Ross Friedman Dies at 72 After ALS Fight
Guitar Legend Ross Friedman Dies at 72 After ALS Fight
29 Mar
Summary
- Legendary guitarist Ross Friedman, 'Ross the Boss,' has died at 72.
- He passed away weeks after his diagnosis with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.
- Friedman was a founding member of punk band The Dictators and heavy metal group Manowar.
Rock music has lost one of its titans with the death of Ross Friedman, widely known as 'Ross the Boss,' at the age of 72. His passing came mere weeks after he revealed his diagnosis with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease often referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease.
Friedman's musical journey began as a foundational figure in the New York City punk rock movement. He co-established the influential band The Dictators in 1973, where his guitar skills quickly gained recognition.
His career took a significant turn in 1980 when, during a Black Sabbath tour, he met Joey DiMaio. This encounter led to the formation of the renowned heavy metal group Manowar, solidifying Friedman's legacy in the hard rock genre.
Friedman shared his ALS diagnosis on February 9, expressing deep sorrow over his inability to play guitar, an act he described as his 'life's breath.' He acknowledged the profound love and support from his fans during this difficult period.
