Mani Stone Roses bassist dies aged 63, legendary musician mourned by bandmates

Gary “Mani” Mounfield, founding bass player of the Stone Roses, has died at age 63. His brother Greg announced the news on November 20, 2025 via Facebook. The iconic bassist shaped the legendary Madchester movement of the late 1980s and 1990s. His loss devastates fans worldwide who grew up with his grooves.

What Happened to the Legendary Bassist

The Stone Roses’ brother Greg Mounfield announced his death with the heaviest of hearts. He posted the news on Facebook to his family and fans. His nephew also shared the announcement online. The music world erupted in tributes within hours of the announcement.

Ian Brown, Mani’s bandmate, posted on X: “REST IN PEACE MANI X.” Tim Burgess of the Charlatans called him “one of the absolute best in every way – such a beautiful friend”. Other famous musicians paid their respects. Rowetta of the Happy Mondays also shared her grief online.

Mani had recently announced an extensive speaking tour. The tour would span from September 2026 to June 2027. He promised to discuss pivotal moments. These included the Stone Roses’ legendary 1990 Spike Island gig. The tour would revisit their 2011 comeback performances as well. Fans were excited for his intimate reflections.

The Manchester Legend Who Changed Rock Music

Gary “Mani” Mounfield was born in Crumpsall, North Manchester. He attended Xaverian College in Rusholme. He left school at age 16. Originally, he played guitar in early bands. Then he discovered his true calling on bass. “I found it more rewarding playing bass than rhythm,” Mani explained in 2000.

Mani formed the Fireside Chaps with John Squire and others in the early 1980s. They later added Ian Brown as vocalist. After several name changes, they became the Stone Roses. They played their first official gig in October 1984. The young Liam and Noel Gallagher both saw them perform. They drew direct inspiration from the band.

“I’ve always been into good old northern soul and funk grooves and it was like, ‘This is it’.”

Breaking Records and Defining an Era

The Stone Roses released their self-titled debut in 1989. Producer John Leckie helmed the album. The record synthesized indie music with rave culture. It became a cornerstone of Madchester. Mani’s bass lines and Reni’s drumming drove the album’s funkiest grooves. Then-NME critic Mary Anne Hobbs called it “the most fluent crossover album of the last decade” in 1991.

The Spike Island gig in 1990 became legendary. The band played to 27,000 people in Widnes. However, the performance was calamitous. Technical issues plagued the five-hour event. Fans complained for years. Yet the gig cemented their cult status forever. A second album took four years. Second Coming arrived in 1994. It received mixed reviews initially.

Mani defended the album’s evolution years later. “We were never about to do another Herman’s Hermits album,” he said. “We’d grown hair on our balls.” He felt critics wrote off the record too quickly. The band dissolved in 1996. Yet their legacy already eclipsed most of rock history. In 2009, Mani reflected proudly. “We were light years ahead of our time,” he declared.

Primal Scream and Reunions

Mani joined Primal Scream in 1997. The Scottish rockers revitalized their sound. He remained their bassist until 2012. “There’s a lot of parallels between the Stone Roses and the Scream,” he said. Both bands shared similar influences. Both wanted to capture Byrds-style magic in rock music.

The Stone Roses reunited in 2011. They toured until 2017. They released two new songs: All for One and Beautiful Thing. Mani also joined Freebass, a bassist supergroup. It featured Andy Rourke from The Smiths. It also included Peter Hook from New Order. Singer Gary Briggs from Haven completed the group.

A Life Beyond the Music

Mani was a devoted Manchester United supporter. He loved fishing in his later years. He’d often visit the pub afterward. His passion for life extended beyond music. He left behind twin sons named Gene Clarke and George Christopher. They were 12 years old. His wife Imelda died from cancer in 2023. Their two-year marriage endured despite her illness.

Mani lived life with authenticity and joy. He stayed connected to Manchester roots. He remained humble despite legendary status. Fans remember him as generous and warm. He influenced countless bass players worldwide. His grooves shaped modern rock forever. His twin sons represent hope moving forward.

Why Does Mani’s Death Matter Today?

The Stone Roses revolutionized rock music in the late 1980s. They blended indie and dance cultures. Mani’s bass lines made their sound unforgettable. Young musicians still study his playing technique. His influence reaches generations not yet born. The Madchester movement changed pop culture forever.

Fans worldwide are processing unexpected grief. Mani represented an era of pure musical innovation. He was accessible and never changed. He spoke to fans passionately about his art. He inspired billions through his bass playing. His loss reminds us how precious musicians are. They shape our collective memories and emotions.

What will you remember most about Mani’s legacy?

Sources

• The Guardian – Comprehensive obituary and career retrospective
• BBC News – Breaking news death announcement
• Sky News – Official death confirmation from family