Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, the influential bassist for The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, has died at the age of 63. His brother Greg confirmed the news on social media, noting Mani's reunion with his late wife Imelda, who passed away in 2023. Tributes from fellow musicians highlight his pivotal role in the Madchester scene.
Background and Career
Born Gary Michael Mounfield on November 16, 1962, in Crumpsall, Manchester, Mani joined The Stone Roses in June 1987 as bassist, replacing Pete Garner. His arrival shifted the band's sound toward a groove blending indie rock and emerging dance elements, defining the Madchester movement. He played on their seminal 1989 self-titled debut album, featuring tracks like 'I Wanna Be Adored' and 'I Am the Resurrection,' and the 1994 follow-up 'Second Coming.' The band disbanded in 1996 after legal issues and internal tensions, having achieved cultural peaks like the 1990 Spike Island concert.
After The Stone Roses split, Mani joined Primal Scream in 1996, contributing to albums including 1997's 'Vanishing Point,' 2000's 'XTRMNTR,' and 2006's 'Riot City Blues.' His energetic basslines and positive influence revitalized the band during a transitional period. He also participated in the supergroup Freebass with Peter Hook and Andy Rourke. Mani rejoined The Stone Roses for their 2011 reunion, touring until their final disbandment in 2017, with last performances including Hampden Park in Glasgow that year. His final gig with Primal Scream was at Edinburgh's Hogmanay in 2011.
Recently, Mani had announced 'An Evening With Gary “Mani” Mounfield,' a UK speaking tour set to begin in September 2026, reflecting on his career highlights.
Tributes and Legacy
Mani's death on November 20, 2025, was announced by brother Greg: 'IT IS WITH THE HEAVIEST OF HEARTS THAT I HAVE TO ANNOUNCE THE SAD PASSING OF MY BROTHER GARY MANI MOUNFIELD. RIP RKID.' He leaves twin sons Gene and George, born in 2013.
Tributes flooded in from the music world. Stone Roses frontman Ian Brown posted, 'REST IN PEACE MANi X.' The band's official account stated, 'RIP our wonderful brother Mani. The greatest bass player and friend we could ever have wished for.' Primal Scream bassist Simone Butler wrote, 'Truly in shock at this. An incredible loss... My heart is breaking for his boys, family and loved ones.' Liam Gallagher shared, 'IN TOTAL SHOCK AND ABSOLUTELY DEVASTATED... MY HERO RIP RKID LG.' The Libertines honored him with archival footage of their 'Waterfall' cover, captioning, 'Truly heartbreaking news, this one’s for you Mani.' New Order added, 'He was a great guy, good fun and a father to two boys. Long may he live in the hearts and minds of all his family, friends and fans.'
Mani's melodic basslines and affable personality left an indelible mark on '90s rock, influencing generations through his work with two seminal bands.
