The Libertines Honor Mani with ‘Waterfall’ Tribute to Stone Roses and Primal Scream Bassist

The Libertines pay heartfelt tribute to Mani, celebrating his legacy with a powerful cover of 'Waterfall' in memory of the iconic bassist.

Remembering Mani: A Heartfelt Tribute from The Libertines

When news broke of Mani’s passing on November 20, 2025, the music world paused to remember a true bass legend. Mani, born Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, was a foundational figure in the Madchester movement, known for his melodic basslines that defined two of the UK's most influential bands: The Stone Roses and Primal Scream. As a fan who grew up watching these bands shape the soundscape of my youth, I felt the impact deeply when The Libertines shared a touching tribute that brought it all home.

Pete Doherty alongside Mani, sharing the stage and spirit of British indie rock.

The Libertines dug into their archives to share footage of themselves performing ‘Waterfall’ — The Stone Roses’ iconic track — during a 2024 Manchester gig at the Albert Hall. This was no ordinary cover; it was a love letter to Mani, a bassist who inspired countless musicians. Posting the video on social media, they simply said: “Truly heartbreaking news, this one’s for you Mani.”

Mani’s Musical Journey: From Stone Roses to Primal Scream and Beyond

Mani’s story is the stuff of rock folklore. He joined The Stone Roses in 1987, becoming the backbone of their sound through their self-titled 1989 debut and the 1994 follow-up, Second Coming. His basslines weren’t just grooves; they were melodic hooks that elevated the band’s psychedelic rock to legendary status.

After The Stone Roses split in 1996, Mani didn’t miss a beat. He became the bassist for Primal Scream, contributing to their evolution of rock infused with dance and electronica, staying with them until 2011. When The Stone Roses reunited in 2011, Mani was back where he belonged, until their second split in 2017.

The news of Mani’s death was shared by his brother Greg with heartfelt grief:

“IT IS WITH THE HEAVIEST OF HEARTS THAT I HAVE TO ANNOUNCE THE SAD PASSING OF MY BROTHER GARY MANI MOUNFIELD. RIP RKID.”

It was a poignant moment, especially since Mani had only recently announced an intimate UK tour planned for next year.

A Flood of Tributes From the Music Community

The outpouring of love for Mani was immediate and heartfelt across social media. Ian Brown, The Stone Roses' enigmatic frontman, summed it up simply: “REST IN PEACE MANi X.” The Stone Roses’ official account echoed the sentiment: “RIP our wonderful brother Mani. The greatest bass player and friend we could ever have wished for.”

Primal Scream’s tribute was equally moving. Bassist Simone Butler shared:

“The moment you met Mani you loved him. The most brilliant and wickedly sharp sense of humour and the biggest heart and generosity… My heart is breaking for his boys, family and loved ones.”

New Order, another pillar of the Manchester scene, remembered Mani as “a great guy, good fun and a father to two boys. Long may he live in the hearts and minds of all his family, friends and fans.” Meanwhile, Liam Fray from The Courteeners expressed his devastation and gratitude for Mani’s impact on everyone who knew him.

Mani commanding the stage with Primal Scream, a presence that lit up every venue.

Mani’s Final Gigs and Personal Life

Fans have been revisiting Mani's last performances, sharing footage and reminiscing about those special gigs. His final show with The Stone Roses took place in 2017 at Hampden Park in Glasgow, while his last with Primal Scream was during Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations in 2011.

Born in Crumpsall, Manchester on November 16, 1962, Mani’s life was deeply rooted in the city’s vibrant music culture. His passing came just shy of two years after the loss of his wife, Imelda, in November 2023. The couple shared twin boys, Gene and George, born in January 2013, leaving behind a loving family legacy.

The Legacy of The Stone Roses and Mani’s Enduring Influence

The Stone Roses, despite their intermittent reunions, have not released new material since their 1994 album Second Coming. Their 2016 singles, "All For One" and "Beautiful Thing," were brief reunions before they ultimately disbanded again in 2017. John Squire confirmed the band’s end in 2019, marking the close of a significant chapter in British rock history.

Mani’s influence, however, stretches far beyond these dates. His approach to bass playing, melodic yet driving, continues to inspire musicians and music lovers worldwide. From the Madchester scene’s rise to the indie rock resurgence led by bands like The Libertines, Mani’s spirit is woven into the fabric of modern British music.

A Tribute That Hits Home

As someone who’s stood in the crowd at gigs where Mani’s basslines set the pulse, The Libertines’ tribute to him with ‘Waterfall’ feels like a perfect farewell. It’s raw, emotional, and full of respect—a reminder that great musicians never truly leave us; they just become part of the soundtrack of our lives.

FAQ

• Who was Mani and why is he important?
  Mani was Gary Mounfield, bassist for The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, renowned for his melodic basslines that shaped the Madchester music scene.
• What was The Libertines’ tribute to Mani?
  They shared archival footage of their cover of The Stone Roses' ‘Waterfall’ from a 2024 Manchester gig as a heartfelt tribute to Mani.
• When did Mani pass away?
  Mani passed away on November 20, 2025, at the age of 63.
• What were Mani’s last performances?
  His last Stone Roses show was in 2017 in Glasgow, and his last with Primal Scream was in 2011 in Edinburgh.
• How has the music community responded?
  Fans and musicians, including Ian Brown, Primal Scream members, New Order, and The Courteeners, have expressed deep sadness and tributes across social media.

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