One of British rock’s greatest figures has died, and the music world is mourning a huge loss.
Gary “Mani” Mounfield — the legendary bassist who powered The Stone Roses and Primal Scream — has died at 63. His cause of death has not yet been announced.
I became a Stone Roses fan the moment I first heard them, and Mani’s warmth, groove, and unmistakable sound were a big part of that. He shaped a generation of music and influenced countless bands.
The news was shared by his brother Greg on Facebook, writing: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce the sad passing of my brother Gary Mani Mounfield. RIP RKID.” He later added: “Reunited with his beautiful wife Imelda.”
Emergency services were called to his home in Heaton Moor, Stockport, on Thursday morning, according to the Manchester Evening News. Neighbours described him as a quiet, private man.
Stone Roses frontman Ian Brown paid tribute on X: “REST IN PEACE MANI X.”
Born in Crumpsall, Manchester, Mani joined The Stone Roses in 1987 and stayed until their 1996 split, later becoming a full-time member of Primal Scream. He reunited with the Roses for their 2011–2017 comeback shows.
Outside music, he loved fishing and darts. His wife Imelda died in 2023, and together they raised money for cancer charities. The couple shared twin sons, Gene and George.
Mani had recently planned a nationwide conversation tour for 2026 to reflect on his four decades in music.
Tributes have poured in, including from Liam Gallagher — “IN TOTAL SHOCK AND ABSOLUTELY DEVASTATED… RIP RKID” — and Shaun Ryder: “RIP Mani… condolences to his family.”