Manchester Music Mourns as Iconic Figure Fonzo Passes Away
Liam Gallagher has spearheaded the emotional tributes pouring in for a true Manchester music legend who has died at the age of 65. Alfonso "Fonzo" Buller, widely celebrated for originating the distinctive Mancunian swagger and coining the iconic phrase "Manchester Vibes in the Area", passed away leaving the city's cultural scene in mourning.
Gallagher's Heartfelt Social Media Homage
The Oasis frontman took to his X account on Tuesday morning to express his sorrow, posting "RIP FONZO MVITA REWIND" followed by another signature Fonzo reference: "COME IN COME IN". Gallagher, 53, had personally adopted Buller's famous "Manchester Vibes in the Area" slogan, using it to introduce Oasis during every performance of their Live 25 tour at Heaton Park last year.
The two Manchester icons shared a longstanding friendship, documented through numerous photographs of them enjoying beers together over the years. Their connection represents a significant thread in the fabric of the city's musical heritage.
Stone Roses and Happy Mondays Stars Join Mourning
Tributes have flooded in from across the music industry, with Stone Roses frontman Ian Brown posting: "Rest in Peace Alfonso Buller a King and Lion of Manchester X Love to the family and his many friends." Oasis guitarist Bonehead added his own simple yet powerful tribute: "MVITA".
Former Happy Mondays singer Rowetta shared poignant memories, stating: "Always a real gentleman, so supportive of me & so many others. His natural energy & positivity was something I had been yearning for for years & I'll never forget that & so many other great memories."
The Life and Legacy of Alfonso 'Fonzo' Buller
Born to a Belizean immigrant father and Romany Gypsy mother, Buller grew up in Withington, South Manchester, and was immersed in the city's club scene from his early teenage years. He became the creative force behind the influential musical sound system MVITA during the 1980s and 1990s.
Known for his joyous dance moves and energetic stage flips, Fonzo performed alongside numerous stars throughout his career. Many consider him a catalyst in Manchester music history, directly influencing major figures like Liam Gallagher and Ian Brown while earning widespread affection across the city and beyond.
Shock and Sadness from Close Friends
Alan Ingram, Fonzo's longtime friend and former manager during MVITA's early years, expressed profound shock to the Manchester Evening News. "I spoke to him only a couple of days ago, he'd not been too well recently but I'm absolutely shocked and gutted, I can't believe it to be honest with you," Ingram revealed.
He recounted their friendship beginning as cricket captains in their youth, continuing through Wilbraham High School and lasting decades. "I was the manager in the early days of MVITA from the early days in 86 into the 90s, I was managing him, looking after MVITA, we've been friends ever since," Ingram added.
The passing of Alfonso "Fonzo" Buller represents the loss of a genuine Manchester original whose cultural impact continues to resonate through the city's music, language, and distinctive attitude.
