Mani, bassist of The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, has died aged 63

Legendary bass player Gary Mounfield, commonly known as Mani, who brought rhythmic verve to The Stone Roses and Primal Scream has died aged 63.

His brother Greg Mounfield shared the news on Facebook on November 20, writing: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce the sad passing of my brother”.

Bandmate Ian Brown, frontman of The Stone Roses, posted a tribute on Twitter, writing: “REST IN PEACE MANi X”, while the band’s official account has also posted: “RIP our wonderful brother Mani. The greatest bass player and friend we could ever have wished for.”

Mani joined The Stone Roses in 1987 and alongside the group became a pivotal figure in the ‘Madchester’ scene, a term coined by Factory Records head Tony Wilson to describe a scene of bands merging elements of alt-rock, psychedelia and dance music in Manchester.

The Stone Roses arguably stand as the most popular and critically acclaimed group of the era, with their 1989 self-titled debut album having sold more than four million copies worldwide. Despite a mixed critical response on release, it’s now widely regarded among the best and most influential records of its time, blurring the lines between rock and club culture. A major part of this was the dance-inspired bass playing of Mani on standout tracks such as ‘Fools Gold’, which was inspired by the musician soaking up inspiration from nightclubs.

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Another of the album’s most famous tracks ‘I Am The Resurrection’ originated from Mani playing Paul McCartney’s riff from The Beatles’ track ‘Taxman’ backwards at sound-checks, until the band decided to build a song around it.

After The Stone Roses disbanded in 1996, having released a second and final studio album ‘Second Coming’ in 1994, Mani joined Primal Scream, another band famously fusing psychedelic rock and dance influence. He’s credited with reinvigorating the group, whose 1994 album ‘Give Out but Don't Give Up’ had been slated by some corners of the music press.

The year after Mani joined, Primal Scream released ‘Vanishing Point’ in 1997, which was critically acclaimed as a return to form and reached Number Two in the UK Albums Chart.

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He remained with the band until 2011 — involved in albums such as ‘XTRMNTR’ and ‘Evil Heat’ alongside touring worldwide — when he left to rejoin the reformed Stone Roses, who stayed together until 2017 before breaking up again, having played high profile gigs at the likes of Coachella. Heaton Park and Wembley Stadium, as well as releasing two singles in 2016.

Mani announced his retirement from music in 2021.

His death follows the passing of his wife Imelda in 2023. The couple had twin boys in 2013.

Many mainstays of British music have paid tribute to Mani.

Liam Gallagher wrote: “In total shock and absolutely devastated on hearing the news about Mani. My hero, RIP R Kid.”

Tim Burgess wrote: “One of the absolute best in every way - such a beautiful friend. Love you Man. Never to be forgotten.”

Shaun Ryder wrote: “RIP Mani – my heartfelt condolences to his twin boys and all of his family.”