Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, the legendary bassist for the Stone Roses and Primal Scream, has died at the age of 63. His brother announced the news on social media, stating: 'It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce the sad passing of my brother. Gary Mani Mounfield RIP. Reunited with his beautiful wife Imelda.'
Mani's wife Imelda died in 2023 after a battle with cancer, aged 52. The couple leave behind twin sons, Gene Clark and George Christopher, believed to be around 12 years old. The rock icon had spoken just last month about his plans to return to music, telling the Rockonteurs podcast: 'I’m in a great space at the moment. Itching to get back bro. I’m ready to get back.'
Tributes have poured in from fellow musicians. Paul Weller wrote: 'We’re all still shocked about our dear brother Mani’s passing. I still can’t believe it. For a little fella, he had a big personality, like his bass sound. A true one-off.' Jon McClure of Reverend and The Makers said Mani 'offered the warmest and best advice' after his father's death.
Peter Hook, Joy Division bassist and former bandmate in Freebass, dedicated the song 'Atmosphere' to Mani during a performance in Holmfirth. Primal Scream's Simone Butler revealed she was meant to see him tomorrow, writing: 'My heart is breaking for his boys, family and loved ones.'
Mani was a key figure in the Madchester movement as bassist for the Stone Roses, whose 1989 debut album was named Britain's finest by The Observer in 2004. After the band's split in 1996, he joined Primal Scream. A neighbour near his home in Heaton Moor described him as 'a good guy' who had helped with local charity work.
