Liam Gallagher has led tributes to Alfonso "Fonzo" Buller, a Manchester music legend who has died at the age of 65. Fonzo was known for originating the Manc swagger and the phrase "Manchester Vibes in the Area," which became a staple for local musicians.
Oasis frontman Gallagher posted on X: "RIP FONZO MVITA REWIND," followed by "COME IN COME IN." Gallagher had used Fonzo's slogan to introduce Oasis during their Heaton Park shows last year. Oasis guitarist Bonehead and Stone Roses frontman Ian Brown also paid tribute.
Fonzo, the son of a Belizean immigrant and a Romany Gypsy, grew up in Withington and started clubbing before his teens. He founded the sound system MVITA in the 1980s and 1990s, known for his energetic dance moves and stage appearances with stars like the Stone Roses and Happy Mondays.
His friend and manager Alan Ingram expressed shock, saying Fonzo had performed at Glastonbury's Pyramid stage for six years running. Former Happy Mondays singer Rowetta remembered him as a "real gentleman" with natural energy and positivity.
