Ross ‘The Boss’ Friedman, the Dictators and Manowar Guitarist, Dead at 72

Punk and metal great Ross “the Boss” Friedman, guitarist and co-founder of the Dictators and Manowar , has died at the age of 72. Friedman’s March 26 death was announced Friday, just a month after the guitarist revealed he had been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS ), commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. “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 ,” his official social media page wrote.

“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.” The Bronx-born Friedman first emerged in the very early days of New York’s punk scene, co-founding the Dictators in 1973 with his friends Andy Shernoff and Scott Kempner.

During their original run, the group released a trio of albums, most notably 1977’s Manifest Destiny , which managed to crack the...