Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield: Stone Roses and Primal Scream Bassist Passes Away at 63

The music world mourns the loss of Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield, whose iconic basslines shaped the sound of two legendary bands.

Remembering a Manchester Music Legend

When the bass riff kicks in on a Stone Roses track, it’s instantly unmistakable. Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield was the heartbeat behind some of the most defining moments of British indie rock and alternative music. Now, the world has lost this beloved bassist at the age of 63, as confirmed by a heartfelt social media post from his brother. While no cause of death was shared, the impact Mani left resonates deeply within the music community.

Mani with Ian Brown performing at the V Festival in Chelmsford, England, 2012

From Manchester’s Underground To Britpop Forefront

Mani’s bass work was a fundamental driving force behind the Stone Roses’ rise from the fertile post-Smiths Manchester scene. Long before Oasis, Blur, and The Verve stormed the charts, the Stone Roses were laying down the blueprint for what Britpop would become. Their 1989 self-titled debut album remains an indie rock classic, packed with timeless anthems that continue to inspire generations.

Their follow-up, the 1994 album Second Coming, might have taken a while to arrive, but it delivered chart-topping gems like “Love Spreads” and “Ten Storey Love Song” — tracks that cemented the band's legacy as pioneers of the genre.

A Seamless Transition: Primal Scream and Beyond

When the Stone Roses disbanded, Mani didn’t miss a beat. He joined Primal Scream in 1996, lending his distinctive bass tone to their evolving sound. He remained an integral part of the band for 15 years, contributing to their sonic adventures that spanned alternative rock and electronica.

Of course, the Stone Roses weren’t done yet. The band reunited in 2012, with Mani back on bass, treating fans to over 50 live shows including an electrifying set at Coachella. The reunion continued sporadically until their final performance in Glasgow on June 24, 2017 — a bittersweet farewell to a band that shaped so much of British music.

Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield in a classic portrait capturing his laid-back charisma

Freebass and Manchester’s Musical Roots

Never one to rest, Mani later formed the supergroup Freebass alongside Andy Rourke from the Smiths and Peter Hook of Joy Division and New Order fame. Though short-lived, the project was a testament to his deep connections to Manchester’s rich musical legacy.

Mani also made a memorable cameo in the 2002 cult film 24 Hour Party People, a film about Manchester’s musical revolution. It was a nod to the city that shaped his career and the vibrant scene he helped build.

A Life Marked by Passion and Resilience

In more recent years, Mani planned a major UK speaking tour to share stories from his time with the Stone Roses and Primal Scream, set to kick off in September in Leamington Spa. Tragically, his personal life was marked by loss as well — his wife Imelda passed away from cancer in 2023, leaving behind their twin boys born in 2013.

The music community responded with an outpouring of grief and admiration:

“I’m absolutely gutted to hear the news about Mani, who I have always loved and always will love, deeply and forever. Like a brother. I am in shock to be honest. Please tell me I’m just having a bad, bad dream.” — Ian McCulloch, Echo & the Bunnymen

Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher expressed his heartbreak, calling Mani “my hero” and sharing the shock of his passing. UK DJ Dave Sweetmore, who had spoken with Mani just days before, described him as “genuinely one of the nicest people you could ever wish to meet,” and spoke of their plans to collaborate on Mani’s autobiography.

The Legacy of a Bass Legend

Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield wasn’t just a bassist; he was a cornerstone of a musical movement that still reverberates today. From defining the sound of Manchester’s music scene to influencing Britpop and alternative rock worldwide, his contributions will never be forgotten. For fans, his basslines carry the spirit of an era — full of youthful energy, raw talent, and a distinctive groove that only Mani could deliver.

FAQ

• How did Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield influence the Stone Roses’ sound?
  Mani’s bass playing was central to the band’s unique blend of indie rock and dance rhythms, helping define their signature sound that inspired countless musicians.
• What bands was Mani associated with?
  Besides the Stone Roses, Mani was a longtime bassist for Primal Scream and briefly played in the supergroup Freebass.
• Did Mani ever appear in films?
  Yes, he made a cameo in 24 Hour Party People, a film about Manchester’s musical revolution.
• Was Mani active in music before his passing?
  Absolutely; he had planned a UK speaking tour to discuss his career and experiences with his iconic bands.
• What personal challenges did Mani face in recent years?
  Mani endured the loss of his wife Imelda to cancer in 2023, alongside raising their twin boys.

Remembering Mani's enduring influence and personal journey adds another layer to the rich tapestry of British music history. If you’re a fan wanting to keep the spirit alive, why not bring a piece of that legacy into your home? Shop your favorite album cover poster at Architeg Prints and celebrate the music that moves us all.