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.

Source: BBC – Tributes to Stone Roses and Primal Scream bassist Mani

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The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has announced its 2025 nominees, featuring a diverse mix of legendary artists and groundbreaking bands. This year’s list includes Mariah Carey, Chubby Checker, Cyndi Lauper, OutKast, Phish, and two sets of famously feuding brothers—Oasis and The Black Crowes—who have recently reunited.

Full List of 2025 Nominees

A total of 14 artists have been nominated for induction this year:

• Mariah Carey
• Chubby Checker
• Cyndi Lauper
• OutKast
• Phish
• Oasis
• The Black Crowes
• Bad Company (First-time nominee)
• Joe Cocker (First-time nominee)
• Billy Idol (First-time nominee)
• Joy Division/New Order
• Maná (First-time nominee)
• Soundgarden
• The White Stripes

First-Time Nominees

Eight of the 14 nominees are appearing on the ballot for the first time:
Bad Company, The Black Crowes, Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Billy Idol, Maná, OutKast, and Phish.

Notable Nominees and Their Legacy

Mariah Carey & Chubby Checker: Chart-Topping Icons

Two of this year’s most influential nominees have left an undeniable mark on music history:

• Mariah Carey: With 19 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, Carey is one of the best-selling female artists of all time.
• Chubby Checker: His hit “The Twist” and its follow-up “Let’s Twist Again” are among the most iconic songs in rock ‘n’ roll history.

Oasis & The Black Crowes: Rivalry and Reunion

Both bands defined their respective rock scenes with sibling tensions at their core:

• Oasis: One of the most dominant British bands of the 1990s, known for “Wonderwall” and “Don’t Look Back in Anger.” The group’s success was driven by the explosive chemistry between brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher.
• The Black Crowes: Mixing Southern rock, blues harmonica, and ‘70s glam, their breakthrough came with “Shake Your Money Maker.” After years of not speaking, Chris and Rich Robinson have reconciled in recent years.

Cyndi Lauper: Pop Pioneer Turned Broadway Star

Lauper rose to fame in the 1980s with “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “Time After Time.” She later won a Tony Award for “Kinky Boots,” proving her versatility beyond pop music.

OutKast: Hip-Hop Innovators

The duo of André 3000 and Big Boi revolutionized hip-hop, earning six Grammy Awards and pushing musical boundaries with genre-blending hits like “Hey Ya!” and “Ms. Jackson.”

Induction Process & Ceremony

• The final list of inductees will be revealed in late April 2025.
• Artists can also be inducted through special categories: Musical Influence, Musical Excellence, and the Ahmet Ertegun Non-Performer Award.
• To be eligible, artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years ago.
• More than 1,200 industry professionals, artists, and historians will vote based on influence, career longevity, innovation, and excellence in style and technique.
• The induction ceremony will take place in Los Angeles this fall.

The 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class promises to be one of the most exciting yet, honoring artists who have shaped the sound and culture of music for decades. Stay tuned for the official inductee announcement in April!

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A Spectacular Christmas Gift for Fans

Beyoncé dazzled fans on Christmas Day with a stunning halftime performance at the Ravens-Texans game in Houston, Texas. Dubbed the “Beyoncé Bowl,” the show marked the live debut of songs from her latest studio album, Cowboy Carter, and featured a surprise appearance by her daughter, Blue Ivy.

A Grand Entrance Fit for a Queen

The superstar made her entrance on horseback, dressed in a flowing white-feathered gown and western hat, setting the tone for the evening. Kicking off with “16 Carriages,” Beyoncé’s captivating performance was a celebration of her roots and artistry.

Transitioning seamlessly, she walked through the stadium in a patriotic red, white, and blue sash to deliver a soulful rendition of “Blackbird.” Moments later, she stunned the audience by reappearing at the center of the field in a dazzling bodysuit and chaps for “Ya Ya.”

Electrifying Performances and Star-Studded Guests

As lights spelling “My House” illuminated the stands, Beyoncé ignited the crowd with a powerful rendition of “Riverdance.” She marched across the field accompanied by a marching band, joining Shaboozey for their collaboration, “Sweet Honey Buckiin.”

The night’s surprises continued with Post Malone delivering a crowd-pleasing performance of “Levii’s Jeans.” Beyoncé then wowed the audience once more by climbing onto a vintage truck to sing a heartfelt version of “Jolene.”

A Heartwarming Mother-Daughter Moment

The show reached its emotional peak when Beyoncé’s 12-year-old daughter, Blue Ivy, joined her onstage during the closing number, “Texas Hold ’Em.” Beyoncé personalized the performance with a lyric change, singing, “Then spin me in the middle, Blue, I can’t read your mind.” The duo performed an intricate line dance before Beyoncé ascended on a platform bearing a banner that read “BANG.”

A Historic NFL Collaboration

The performance was part of Netflix’s inaugural NFL Christmas Gameday, a groundbreaking partnership allowing fans to watch games, including the Ravens-Texans and Chiefs-Steelers matchups, until three hours post-livestream.

A Star’s Rise to New Heights

This isn’t Beyoncé’s first foray into NFL performances. She headlined the 2013 Super Bowl Halftime Show with a Destiny’s Child reunion and made a surprise appearance in 2016 to perform “Formation” with Coldplay.

Unparalleled Achievements

Earlier this month, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) confirmed Beyoncé as the most certified female artist in history, with 103 certified titles. Her latest album, Cowboy Carter, earned Platinum status, while “Texas Hold ’Em” is now 2x Platinum, and “16 Carriages” is Gold certified. Her previous album, Renaissance, also achieved 2x Platinum status.

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Beyoncé’s breathtaking halftime show was more than a performance — it was a moment of cultural significance, blending music, family, and star power in a way only she can deliver.

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Legendary musician Elton John has voiced strong opposition to the legalization of marijuana, calling it a “major mistake” in an interview with Time magazine as part of their Icon of the Year coverage.

Elton John on Marijuana’s Risks

“I maintain that it’s addictive,” John said, reflecting on his own past struggles with substance abuse. “It leads to other drugs. And when you’re stoned—and I’ve been stoned—you don’t think normally.”

The singer went as far as to label the legalization of marijuana in the US and Canada as “one of the greatest mistakes of all time.”

A Personal Perspective on Addiction

Elton John’s stance is rooted in his own journey of sobriety, which spans decades. His dedication to helping others in similar battles is well-known; he has served as a sponsor for rapper Eminem and facilitated English pop star Robbie Williams’ first stint in rehab.

However, not every effort has been successful. John expressed deep regret over his inability to help the late George Michael, who struggled with substance abuse and died at 53 due to heart and liver disease in 2016.

“It’s tough to tell someone they’re being an ahole, and it’s tough to hear,” John admitted. “Eventually, I made the choice to admit that I’m being an ahole,” he said, alluding to his own turning point toward recovery.

The Toll on Creativity and Relationships

John’s longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin recalled how the singer’s substance abuse impacted their creative work and friendship. “I was terrified for him. It was absolutely horrible,” Taupin said.

“A lot of the work we did when he was at his worst wasn’t the best of both of us. I couldn’t creatively invest in writing material that reflected him until he found himself. Once he did, everything became easier.”

A Message of Sobriety

Through his candid reflections, Elton John continues to emphasize the dangers of addiction and the challenges of recovery. His opposition to marijuana legalization stems not only from his experiences but also from his dedication to helping others overcome substance abuse.

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