Ex-Manowar guitarist Ross ‘The Boss’ Friedman has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. This was reported by Rolling Stone.
The diagnosis was announced through a statement from Friedman’s publicist. The statement explained the progression of symptoms that led to the medical discovery.
“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 publicist’s statement read. “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 also provided his own personal statement regarding the diagnosis and its impact on his musical career.
“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. “I’m absolutely blown away by the love and support from family, friends and fans. I love you all.”
The diagnosis marks a significant moment for a musician who has been instrumental in shaping both punk and heavy metal music over several decades.
Wikipedia reported that Friedman co-founded The Dictators in 1972 as one of New York’s proto-punk pioneers. The band emerged during the early days of the punk movement. They established themselves as influential figures in the underground music scene alongside contemporaries like The Ramones.
Friedman’s transition to heavy metal came in 1980 when he joined Manowar after being introduced to bassist Joey DeMaio by Ronnie James Dio. 100 Percent Rock noted that Friedman was a member of Manowar from 1980 through 1988. He released six albums including classics like Battle Hymns, Into Glory Ride, and Hail To England.
His contributions to the heavy metal genre were formally recognized when The Metal Hall of Fame inducted him in 2017 for his pioneering work in speed metal. The Hall of Fame describes Friedman as “a pioneering guitarist best known for his work with the legendary heavy metal band Manowar and the punk band The Dictators.”
Throughout his career, Friedman has maintained his connection to both musical worlds. He continued to perform and record with various projects even after his departure from Manowar in 1988. His dual legacy in both punk and metal has made him a unique figure in rock music history.
