Organisers have confirmed that Manichester, the tribute event honouring Stone Roses legend Gary "Mani" Mounfield, will return in 2027. The announcement follows the success of the inaugural event, held at Manchester's Diecast venue on May 30, which sold out swiftly and saw thousands pay tribute to the bassist, who died in November at the age of 63.
Family thanks and proceeds
Mani's family have shared a message of thanks after receiving the proceeds from the event. The statement said: "On behalf of Gene, George & the Family. We would like to thank everyone who performed, contributed and attended Manichester on 30 May 2026 and also for your kind words of support."
The event was organised to celebrate the life, music and legacy of the Stone Roses and Primal Scream bassist, with the blessing of Mani's brother Greg Mounfield and wider family. It raised money for Mani and wife Imelda's twin sons Gene and George, aged 13.
Star-studded performances
The event featured a rock 'n' roll supergroup performing unique spins on Stone Roses classics and songs Mani loved. Stars who took part included Joy Division and New Order legend Peter Hook, Manchester powerhouse Rowetta, The Zutons' Dave McCabe, former Stone Roses guitarist Aziz Ibrahim and former Kasabian frontman Tom Meigham. The event also featured performances from Cast, Puressence, James Walsh and tribute band Ultimate Stone Roses, amid emotional tributes paid throughout the day from Mani's rock star pals.
Plans for 2027
Organisers Madchester.com have outlined plans to make Manichester a regular calendar event. A spokesman for Madchester.com said: "The event was a huge success and we are incredibly proud of what everyone achieved. Mani was a national treasure, and we want to keep his memory alive through music, friendship and the people who loved him."
"There are already plans to make the Manichester brand a regular calendar event, giving people the opportunity to come together each year and celebrate Mani's incredible contribution to music and culture."
The scale of demand was reflected by one of the event's sponsors, GioGoi. A spokesman for GioGoi.com said: "We were oversubscribed by tens of thousands of people. We could have filled Old Trafford. The appetite for Manichester was enormous."
"The great thing is that we now have more time to plan the next event properly and make sure we can give even more people the opportunity to be part of it."
Organisers said they wanted to send their particular thanks to the artists and musicians who performed at the event, the production and venue teams, sponsors, contributors, volunteers and everyone who worked behind the scenes. Following the success of the inaugural event, Manichester will return in 2027, continuing the celebration of Mani and the extraordinary musical legacy he left behind. Further details of the 2027 event will be announced in due course. Fans can register their interest and receive updates at the Manichester.com website.
