Stone Roses and Primal Scream Bassist Mani Dies at 63

Tributes Pour In for Stone Roses and Primal Scream Bassist Gary “Mani” Mounfield

Gary “Mani” Mounfield, the influential bassist whose work defined the sound of the Stone Roses and later Primal Scream, has died at the age of 63. His death prompted tributes from artists across Britain’s music scene, reflecting his lasting impact on alternative rock. Mounfield was widely regarded as one of the most distinctive bass players of his generation.

Mani’s Legacy in British Music

Gary “Mani” Mounfield emerged as one of Manchester’s most influential musicians during the late 1980s, playing a central role in shaping the city’s “Madchester” sound. His basslines formed the backbone of the Stone Roses’ celebrated style, which blended indie rock, psychedelic influences, and dance rhythms.

Mounfield’s brother, Greg, announced his passing “with the heaviest of hearts” in a public message, noting the profound loss felt by their family. Fellow musicians, fans, and industry colleagues described Mani as both a gifted performer and a generous presence within the music community.

Oasis singer Liam Gallagher was among the first to honor him, writing: “In total shock and absolutely devastated on hearing the news about Mani. My hero, RIP R Kid.” Members of the Stone Roses also shared their grief, acknowledging the depth of their long-standing friendship and musical partnership.

Bold: A Central Figure in the Stone Roses

Bold Italics: The Sound of Madchester

Mani’s arrival at the Stone Roses helped propel the band to the forefront of Britain’s indie landscape. With Ian Brown on vocals, John Squire on guitar, and Alan “Reni” Wren on drums, the group fused multiple influences—punk, psychedelic rock, dance, funk, and reggae—to create a distinctive sound that defined an era.

Their self-titled 1989 debut album is widely considered one of the most important British albums of its generation. Tracks like I Wanna Be Adored, She Bangs the Drums, and I Am the Resurrection were anchored by Mani’s fluid, rhythm-driven basslines, which became a signature feature of the record.

The album topped numerous “greatest albums” lists, including rankings by The Observer in 2004 and NME in 2006. Their second album, Second Coming, released in 1994, continued the band’s chart success, reaching the UK top five.

Bold Italics: Breakup, Reunion, and Final Shows

After internal tensions and management disputes, the Stone Roses disbanded in 1996. Mani later returned for the band’s 2012 reunion, joining them for a major tour that reignited interest among long-time fans and younger listeners.

The band released two singles in 2016, though a full album never materialized. Their final performances took place during 2016 and 2017, including a major concert at Glasgow’s Hampden Park. Speaking to the crowd, Ian Brown said: “Don’t be sad that it’s over, be happy that it happened.”

Fifteen Years with Primal Scream

When the Stone Roses first split, Mani joined Primal Scream in 1996, becoming an essential figure in their evolving sound. His bass playing debuted with the band on Vanishing Point (1997), contributing to the krautrock-inspired single Kowalski. Over 15 years, he recorded four additional albums with the group and toured extensively.

Colleagues described Mani as a creative force whose versatility strengthened Primal Scream’s genre-shifting approach. He continued with the band until 2011, when he departed to prepare for the Stone Roses’ reunion.

Community Tributes and Industry Reaction

Bold Italics: Musicians Remember a Friend and Collaborator

Tributes from across the UK music community highlighted Mani’s character as much as his musical talent. Singer Ian Brown wrote simply: “REST IN PEACE MANi X.” Happy Mondays frontman Shaun Ryder also shared condolences, sending sympathy to Mani’s twin sons and extended family.

Rowetta from Happy Mondays posted a photograph with Mani and his late wife, Imelda, calling him someone she would “miss so much.” Tim Burgess of The Charlatans described him as “one of the absolute best in every way… such a beautiful friend.”

Echo & The Bunnymen’s Ian McCulloch expressed deep sadness, writing that he loved Mani “deeply and forever,” calling the news a shock. Peter Hook of Joy Division and New Order said he was unable to find the words to express his grief.

Bold Italics: A Presence Beyond Music

Manchester publicist Liam Walsh, a long-time friend, said he had known Mani for four decades and remembered him as someone who greeted everyone with warmth. Walsh recalled hearing the Stone Roses’ Fools Gold—with its iconic bassline—playing when he learned of the news, calling it a reminder of the musician’s lasting legacy.

Mounfield was also known for his enthusiasm for Manchester United, frequently sharing insights on the club in interviews, radio appearances, and television discussions.

Personal Life and Recent Projects

Mani’s wife, Imelda, died in 2023 after being diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2020. The couple shared twin sons, born in 2013. Friends noted how profoundly her loss affected him, even as he continued making occasional public appearances.

Just weeks before his death, Mani appeared on the Rockonteurs podcast, telling listeners he was “in a great space” and eager to return to performing. He had recently announced an in-conversation tour scheduled for next year, where he planned to discuss his life in music and his experiences with both the Stone Roses and Primal Scream.

Other Projects and Cultural Contributions

In addition to his two main bands, Mani participated in a range of creative ventures. He appeared in the 2002 film 24 Hour Party People, which chronicled Manchester’s vibrant music scene and the story of Factory Records.

He also joined the supergroup Freebass alongside Andy Rourke of The Smiths and Peter Hook. Though the group disbanded before releasing a full album, they issued It’s a Beautiful Life in 2010.

A Lasting Influence

Musicians and critics frequently cite Mani as one of the most distinctive bassists in modern British music. His work shaped the Madchester movement, influenced multiple generations of indie bands, and left an indelible mark on alternative rock.

As tributes continue, many in the music world are reflecting on the breadth of his legacy—one built on talent, humility, and a genuine love for his craft.