Watch Footage from Mani’s Final Gigs with The Stone Roses and Primal Scream

Celebrate the legacy of Mani with rare footage from his last performances that defined his iconic basslines for The Stone Roses and Primal Scream.

Remembering Mani’s Final Moments on Stage

If you’re a fan of the Madchester scene or British indie rock, the name Mani rings out like a bass anthem. Gary "Mani" Mounfield wasn’t just a bassist; he was the heartbeat of two legendary bands: The Stone Roses and Primal Scream. His recent passing at age 63 sent ripples through the music world, with fans and legends alike reminiscing about his immense impact. Let’s dive into his last electrifying performances and celebrate the legacy he left behind.

Mani: From Manchester’s Streets to Music History

Mani’s journey began in Manchester, where he was born on November 16, 1962, in Crumpsall. He rose to fame in 1987 when he joined The Stone Roses, contributing to their two seminal albums that defined an era. After the band’s initial breakup in 1996, Mani slid seamlessly into Primal Scream’s lineup, carrying his signature bass grooves until 2011, when The Stone Roses reformed for a second act.

Just over a week before his death, Mani had announced an intimate UK conversation tour, promising to share stories from iconic gigs and career milestones. His brother Greg broke the heartbreaking news, posting on social media, “IT IS WITH THE HEAVIEST OF HEARTS THAT I HAVE TO ANNOUNCE THE SAD PASSING OF MY BROTHER GARY MANI MOUNFIELD. RIP RKID.”

Mani’s Last Gig with The Stone Roses: Hampden Park, 2017

There’s something profoundly moving about witnessing an artist’s final bow. Mani’s last performance with The Stone Roses took place at Glasgow’s Hampden Park in 2017, a massive stadium filled with fans buzzing with nostalgia. The setlist reads like a greatest hits collection of the Madchester movement, including classics like “I Wanna Be Adored,” “Fools Gold,” and the epic “I Am the Resurrection.”

The energy from those performances still resonates today, a testament to Mani's enduring stage presence.

Watch the unforgettable moments from these gigs:

Setlist Highlights from Hampden Park:

• I Wanna Be Adored
• Elephant Stone
• Sally Cinnamon
• Mersey Paradise
• (Song for My) Sugar Spun Sister
• Where Angels Play
• Shoot You Down
• Waterfall
• Don’t Stop
• Begging You
• Elizabeth My Dear
• Fools Gold
• All for One
• Love Spreads
• Made of Stone
• She Bangs the Drums
• Breaking Into Heaven
• This Is the One
• I Am the Resurrection

Mani’s Last Show with Primal Scream: Edinburgh Hogmanay, 2011

Before returning to The Stone Roses in 2011, Mani’s final gig with Primal Scream was equally special. It took place during Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations, a legendary New Year’s Eve party in Scotland’s capital. The setlist blended Primal Scream classics with a nod to their psychedelic influences.

Relive the party with these videos:

Primal Scream Setlist from Edinburgh Hogmanay 2011:

• Movin’ on Up
• Slip Inside This House (13th Floor Elevators cover)
• Don’t Fight It, Feel It
• Damaged
• Accelerator
• Shoot Speed/Kill Light
• Loaded
• Come Together
• Swastika Eyes
• Country Girl
• Jailbird
• Rocks

The Man Behind the Bass: Mani’s Legacy

Mani's story is one of resilience and passion. Born in Manchester, he became a seminal figure in the music scenes that defined a generation. His personal life saw profound joy and sorrow; he and his late wife Imelda shared twin boys, Gene and George, born in 2013. Tragically, Imelda passed away in November 2023, a loss that preceded Mani’s own passing nearly two years later.

In 2016, The Stone Roses surprised fans with two new singles, All For One and Beautiful Thing, reawakening hope for the band’s future before tensions caused their final split in 2017. It's hard to believe it’s been over three decades since their last full album, Second Coming, was released.

John Squire confirmed in 2019 that The Stone Roses reunion was officially over, and Ian Brown kept the legacy alive with his solo work. Mani’s stint with Primal Scream was marked by his reflections on the contrasting dynamics between the two bands—Primal Scream being a freer, more democratic experience compared to the Stone Roses' creative tensions.

He was also part of the supergroup Freebass, alongside notable bassists from The Smiths, New Order, and Haven, highlighting just how respected he was among peers.

Celebrating Mani: Tributes and Memories

The music world quickly reacted to Mani’s passing with an outpouring of affection and respect. Ian Brown simply posted, “REST IN PEACE MANi X,” capturing the heartfelt sorrow of many. Rowetta of Happy Mondays mourned the loss while sending love to Mani's family.

Tim Burgess of The Charlatans shared a touching photo and memory: “One of the absolute best in every way – such a beautiful friend Love you Mani x x Never to be forgotten.” Liam Gallagher, Shaun Ryder, and Oasis guitarist Paul “Bonehead” Arthurs also expressed their devastation and condolences.

Journalist and musician John Robb called Mani “the soul of the Stone Roses,” and Rough Trade praised him as “the perfect example of how a bassist can be the beating heart of a band.”

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

Closing Thoughts

Mani’s basslines didn’t just hold songs together; they defined an era, weaving through the Madchester soundtrack in a way few musicians ever have. His final gigs provide a window into the energy, passion, and soul he poured into every note. As we watch these performances, it’s clear that Mani’s legacy will continue to resonate for generations to come.

FAQ

• Who was Mani and why was he important?
  Mani, born Gary Mounfield, was the bassist for The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, key bands in the Madchester and British indie scene known for shaping the sound of the late '80s and '90s.
• When and where were Mani's last performances?
  His final Stone Roses performance was at Hampden Park, Glasgow, in 2017, and his last gig with Primal Scream was at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebration in 2011.
• Did Mani continue making music in recent years?
  Alongside his band work, Mani planned an intimate UK tour in 2026-2027 to share stories from his career, although this was announced shortly before his passing.
• What bands was Mani involved in besides The Stone Roses and Primal Scream?
  He was part of the supergroup Freebass, collaborating with bassists from The Smiths, New Order, and Haven.
• How have other musicians reacted to Mani’s passing?
  Many artists, including Ian Brown, Tim Burgess, Liam Gallagher, and Shaun Ryder, publicly paid tribute, highlighting Mani’s influence and friendship.

If you want to keep Mani’s memory alive in your own space, shop your favorite album cover posters and legendary band prints at our store: Architeg Prints. Celebrate the music that shaped a generation with timeless artwork.