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Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, the influential bassist of The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, has died aged 63, his brother announced on Thursday, with many distinguished figures from the music world paying tribute to a 'hero' and 'one of the absolute best'.
Born on 16 November 1962 in Crumpsall, Manchester, 'Mani', as he was affectionately known, helped define the sound of the Madchester era, his grooves integral to the Roses’ self-titled 1989 debut and beyond. His brother Greg announced the news on 20 November 2025; the cause of death has not been officially disclosed.
Fellow Roses bandmate Ian Brown also shared the sad news on 'X':
As the news broke, fellow music stars paid tribute to the bass giant, with Liam Gallagher describing Mani as his hero:
The messages were filled with a bittersweet mix of shock and loving remembrance:
After the Roses’ original split in 1996, Mani joined Primal Scream, bringing his trademark bass style and collaborative spirit to help revitalise their sound. He later re-joined The Stone Roses for their reunion, further cementing his status as one of Britain’s most respected alternative rock musicians.
Mani is survived by his twin sons – his wife Imelda passed away in 2023 – and leaves behind a legacy of musical innovation, generosity, and connection. He came from humble beginnings in north Manchester and through his basslines, his passion for music and his warmth of character, he touched countless lives.
His presence will be deeply missed – but his sounds will live on.
