Mani, Iconic Stone Roses Bassist, Dies at 63
It’s with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of Gary “Mani” Mounfield, the legendary bassist of the Stone Roses and later Primal Scream. Mani died at the age of 63, with his cause of death yet to be revealed. His brother, Greg Mounfield, confirmed the sad news on social media, saying, “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce the sad passing of my brother.” His nephew also shared the news, marking the loss of a truly influential figure in British music.
Mani’s impact on the music world was immense. As a founding member of the Stone Roses, he helped define the Madchester movement, blending indie rock with dance grooves, and became instantly recognizable for his iconic Rickenbacker basslines. Ian Brown, his longtime bandmate, paid tribute on social media simply with: “Rest in peace Mani,” while Tim Burgess of the Charlatans described him as “one of the absolute best in every way – such a beautiful friend.” Other tributes poured in from across the music scene, including Liam Gallagher and Rowetta from the Happy Mondays, each remembering him as a hero and a friend.
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Born in Crumpsall, Manchester, on 16 November 1962, Mani’s early life in the north of the city shaped him profoundly. He left school at 16 and, in his youth, formed the band that would eventually become the Stone Roses. Before switching to bass, he played guitar in his early bands, but later said he found the bass more rewarding, allowing him to explore the grooves and rhythms that would define his signature style. The Stone Roses’ debut album, produced by John Leckie in 1989, became a cornerstone of British music, earning acclaim for its innovative fusion of indie, funk, and soul, and inspiring countless future musicians, including the Gallagher brothers.
Beyond the Stone Roses, Mani joined Primal Scream in 1996, injecting the band with fresh energy and helping shape some of their most vital work. He later participated in the Roses’ reunion from 2011 to 2017, performing at festivals and touring globally, and even released new tracks with the band. In addition, he was part of the bassist supergroup Freebass alongside Andy Rourke and Peter Hook, cementing his reputation as one of Britain’s finest bass players.
Despite the highs of his career, Mani faced personal challenges, including the loss of his wife, Imelda, to cancer in 2023. Yet, he remained resilient, sharing stories of his career in a speaking tour announced for September 2026 through June 2027, promising to reflect on pivotal moments like the legendary Spike Island gig in 1990. Mani is survived by his twin sons, Gene Clark and George Christopher, both aged 12, leaving behind a legacy of music, friendship, and inspiration.
Mani’s life was a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of music to shape lives. He once reflected on his unlikely journey: despite growing up in a tough part of Manchester, he traveled the world, played music he loved, and inspired generations along the way. Today, we remember Mani not just as a bassist, but as the heartbeat of a movement, a friend to many, and an enduring musical icon.
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