Thu Nov 20 18:30:00 UTC 2025: Stone Roses Bassist Mani Mounfield Dies at 63

Manchester, UK – Gary “Mani” Mounfield, the influential bassist of the iconic Manchester band The Stone Roses, has died at the age of 63. The news was confirmed by his brother Greg in a heartfelt Facebook post, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians and fans.

Mani’s distinctive bass lines were a signature element of the Stone Roses’ groundbreaking “baggy” sound, propelling hits like “I Wanna Be Adored” and “She Bangs The Drums” from their acclaimed 1989 debut album. The band, comprised of Mani, vocalist Ian Brown, guitarist John Squire, and drummer Alan “Reni” Wren, spearheaded the Madchester indie scene of the late 1980s and early 90s, blending punk, glam rock, dance, funk, and reggae influences.

After The Stone Roses disbanded in 1996, Mani joined Primal Scream, contributing his bass playing to albums like “Vanishing Point” and playing on the krautrock-influenced single “Kowalski”. He remained with Primal Scream for 15 years before rejoining The Stone Roses for a comeback tour in 2012. While the reunited band released two singles in 2016, tensions resurfaced, leading to another split in 2017.

Liam Gallagher of Oasis led the tributes, calling Mani his “hero” and expressing devastation at the news. Ian Brown simply wrote “REST IN PEACE MANi X” on X. Happy Mondays frontman Shaun Ryder and vocalist Rowetta also shared their condolences, remembering Mani fondly. The Charlatans’ Tim Burgess posted a recent photo of himself with Mani celebrating his 63rd birthday, calling him “One of the absolute best in every way.” Echo And The Bunnymen’s Ian McCulloch said he was “absolutely gutted” by the news.

Mani was also a member of the supergroup Freebass, alongside Andy Rourke of The Smiths and Peter Hook of Joy Division and New Order. Hook expressed his disbelief and sadness, calling Mani a “mate.”

Mani’s death follows the passing of his wife, Imelda, in November 2023 after a battle with bowel cancer. The couple have twin boys, born in 2013.

Beyond music, Mani was a passionate Manchester United fan, often discussing the team on TV and radio. He had recently announced an “in-conversation” tour of UK venues, scheduled for September next year, where he planned to share his experiences and memories from his time with The Stone Roses and Primal Scream.

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