Gary “Mani” Mounfield of the Stone Roses has died at 63, leaving behind a powerful musical legacy. Discover his journey, influence on the Madchester movement, career highlights, and heartfelt tributes pouring in from the music world.
Gary “Mani” Mounfield: Celebrated Stone Roses Bassist Dies at 63
Gary “Mani” Mounfield, one of the most influential bassists in British rock history and a founding force behind the Stone Roses, has died at the age of 63. His family announced the news on social media, though the cause of death has not yet been disclosed. The loss marks the end of an era for fans of the Madchester movement, where Mani’s deep, melodic bass lines helped shape a cultural shift in UK music.
Mani’s brother, Greg Mounfield, shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook, calling it “the heaviest of hearts” moment for their family. Tributes poured in instantly from across the music world. Stone Roses frontman Ian Brown wrote a simple yet deeply emotional message: “Rest in peace Mani.” Tim Burgess of The Charlatans called him “one of the absolute best in every way,” while Rowetta from the Happy Mondays expressed her sorrow for the passing of a beloved friend and musical giant.
Liam Gallagher, who has long credited the Stone Roses as a major influence on Oasis, said he was “in total shock and absolutely devastated.” Rough Trade Records honored him as “the perfect example of how a bassist can be the beating heart of a band,” a tribute that captures how vital his style was to the identity of the Stone Roses.
A Life Built on Music, Brotherhood, and Survival
Born on November 16, 1962, in Crumpsall, Manchester, Gary Mounfield grew up in a community where music, culture, and hardship existed side by side. He attended Xaverian College before leaving school at 16. His friendship with Ian Brown began under unusual circumstances—helping confront National Front skinheads who were threatening local youths. Mani often said that from that day forward, they were brothers.
Before the Stone Roses became a cultural phenomenon, Mani formed an early band, Fireside Chaps, alongside John Squire and Andy Couzens. After several lineup changes and sonic evolutions, the band officially became the Stone Roses and performed their first professional gig in October 1984.
Although Mani began as a guitarist, he found a deeper calling in the bass. When the band transitioned into what would become the Waterfront, he embraced the instrument fully. He later said discovering the bass felt like finding the groove he had been searching for, heavily inspired by northern soul and funk rhythms. His Rickenbacker became an extension of his musical identity.
Madchester, Legacy, and “Saving His Life”
Throughout the late 80s, the Stone Roses were at the heartbeat of a rising cultural wave that blended indie rock with rave culture. Their self-titled 1989 album—produced by John Leckie—is now considered one of the defining records of its era. Mani’s fluid bass lines and Reni’s rhythmic precision helped create a sound that felt both hypnotic and revolutionary. Critics praised the album’s genre-blending innovation, and decades later, it still appears on lists of the greatest British albums ever made.
For Mani, the band was more than a career. He once said being in the Roses “probably saved my life,” noting that he had lost 17 friends to heroin addiction during his youth. Music became both an escape and a mission.
Even as the band rose to national fame, the path wasn’t always smooth. Their 1990 Spike Island show, attended by 27,000 fans, became infamous for sound problems and logistical chaos. Their long-awaited second album, Second Coming, released in 1994, split critics and fans. Mani defended it proudly, arguing that the band refused to repeat themselves or chase old sounds.
A New Chapter with Primal Scream
After the Stone Roses dissolved in 1996, Mani immediately joined Primal Scream. His arrival sparked a creative resurgence for the group. He described working with Primal Scream as liberating compared with the tension-filled dynamic of the Roses, calling the Primals “more of a democracy.”
His time with the band produced some of their most adventurous work, and he remained a key member until the Stone Roses reunited in 2011. Between 2011 and 2017, the Roses staged a massive comeback, performing at festivals and arenas around the world. They also released two new tracks, “All for One” and “Beautiful Thing,” which became instant fan favorites.
Mani also collaborated with other major musicians, joining Freebass, a “supergroup” of bass legends that included Andy Rourke of The Smiths and Peter Hook of New Order.
Personal Life and Final Years
In 2023, Mani suffered the devastating loss of his wife, Imelda, who died from cancer. Despite immense grief, he remained active and connected with fans. He announced an extensive speaking tour set for 2026–2027, where he planned to share stories from his decades in music—from Spike Island to the band’s unexpected reunion.
Outside of music, Mani loved Manchester United, fishing, and the simple joy of a good pub afternoon. He is survived by his twin sons, Gene Clarke and George Christopher.
In a past interview, Mani reflected on how astonishing his life had turned out. Growing up in one of Manchester’s toughest areas, he said he could have easily fallen into crime or addiction like many of his early friends. Instead, he traveled the world through music, found a devoted global fanbase, and built a legacy that will outlive generations.
Gary “Mani” Mounfield wasn’t just a bassist—he was a heartbeat, a storyteller, a survivor, and a pillar of the Madchester sound. His influence remains woven into modern indie music, and his grooves continue to inspire new artists across the world.