The UK music scene is in mourning following the tragic death of Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, the legendary bassist for The Stone Roses and Primal Scream. He was 63 years old.
Heartbreaking Announcement from Family
The devastating news was confirmed on Thursday by Mani's brother, Greg Mounfield, in a heartfelt Facebook post. Greg wrote: "It is with the heaviest hearts that I have to announce the sad passing of my brother, Gary Mani Mounfield. RIP RKID." No details regarding the cause of his death have been disclosed at this time.
Final Post Revealed Ambitious Tour Plans
In a poignant twist, just over a week before his passing, Mani appeared full of vigour and shared exciting career news with his fans. He announced an extensive solo tour of the UK, scheduled for late 2026 and early 2027.
The tour, titled 'The Stone Roses, Primal Scream, and Me – An Intimate Evening with Gary 'Mani' Mounfield', was set to be a major undertaking with 69 planned dates across Britain.
In his final social media post, Mani wrote: "I think @mm embarking on what could be my final road trip….. Getting too old now…. Anyway, there's a lot to go at…. I will be giving my skewed vision of my own life, I never did, and would never rat on my comrades… hope you come out and say hello."
"Itching to Get Back" to Music
This announcement aligned with sentiments he expressed in an interview just last month. Mani revealed he was feeling inspired to return to music, encouraged by fellow musicians like Johnny Marr and Liam Gallagher.
"I'm in a great space at the moment. Itching to get back bro. I'm ready to get back," he had said in mid-October. He described visiting his lock-up to look at his bass guitars, feeling a renewed desire to play.
Outpouring of Tributes from Music Icons
News of his death prompted an immediate and emotional wave of tributes from across the music industry.
Ian Brown, Stone Roses frontman, simply said: "REST IN PEACE MANi X."
Rowetta (Happy Mondays) posted: "Back with your Imelda, Mani. Going to miss you so much."
Tim Burgess (The Charlatans) shared a touching tribute, calling Mani "One of the absolute best in every way - such a beautiful friend."
A Legendary Manchester Career
Born Gary Mounfield on 16 November 1962 in Crumpsall, North Manchester, Mani grew up in Failsworth and Newton Heath. He left school at sixteen and joined The Stone Roses in 1987, playing on both of their iconic albums until the band's initial split in 1996.
He then became a member of Primal Scream, before leaving in 2011 to rejoin The Stone Roses for their celebrated reunion, which lasted until 2017.
Mani's personal life was marked by profound tragedy when his wife, Imelda Mounfield, died from stage-four bowel cancer almost two years ago. The couple, who lived in Heaton Moor, Stockport, shared twin sons, Gene and George, born in 2013.
Together, Mani and Imelda were dedicated fundraisers, raising over £100,000 for cancer charities, including The Christie Hospital and Stockport NHS Charity. A lifelong Manchester United fan, Mani's legacy extends far beyond his immense musical contributions.
