Stone Roses and Primal Scream Bassist Gary "Mani" Mounfield Dies at 63
Gary "Mani" Mounfield, the iconic bassist known for his work with the legendary Manchester band The Stone Roses, has died at the age of 63. His brother Greg shared the news on social media, describing the loss as coming "with the heaviest of hearts."
Mani’s bass playing was central to the Stone Roses’ distinctive "baggy" sound that helped define the Madchester scene. He later reunited with the band for their 2012 comeback tour and is credited with shaping classic tracks such as "I Wanna Be Adored" and "I Am The Resurrection."
Mani also joined Primal Scream in 1996, becoming a key member for 15 years. His work on their album Vanishing Point included the krautrock-influenced single "Kowalski," showcasing his versatility beyond indie rock.
The Stone Roses expressed their grief on social media, calling Mani "the greatest bass player and friend we could ever have wished for." Lead singer Ian Brown also paid tribute, simply stating: "REST IN PEACE MANi X."
Several other musicians joined the chorus of tributes. Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher called Mani his "hero" and said he was "in total shock." Shaun Ryder of Happy Mondays sent condolences to Mani’s family, while Echo And The Bunnymen’s Ian McCulloch described his feelings as "gutted" and called Mani "like a brother."
Mani’s personal life saw hardship in recent months, following the death of his wife Imelda from bowel cancer in November. The couple had twin boys born in 2013. Friends and fellow musicians expressed sympathy for the family during this difficult time.
Starting his career in the late 1980s, Mani was part of the Stone Roses’ critically acclaimed self-titled album, which was named the greatest British album of all time by The Observer and NME. The band’s second album, Second Coming, also reached the UK top five.
After the initial Stone Roses split in the mid-90s, Mani’s figures remained prominent in the UK music scene. He briefly joined the supergroup Freebass with Andy Rourke and Peter Hook, and even appeared in the film 24 Hour Party People.
Mani had planned a UK in-conversation tour to recount his musical journey starting in September. The tour’s future is now uncertain following his untimely death.
A close friend, Manchester music publicist Liam Walsh, reflected on Mani’s warm personality and infectious laugh. Walsh noted how "Stone Roses’ ‘Fools Gold’ with that famous bassline of his was playing in the bar" when he learned the news, underscoring the legacy Mani leaves behind.
Beyond music, Mani was a devoted Manchester United supporter who frequently spoke about the team on TV and radio. His influence on British music and culture remains significant, marking the end of an era for fans of the Madchester sound.
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