The British music scene is reeling from the tragic and sudden death of Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, the legendary bassist for The Stone Roses and Primal Scream. The news was confirmed on Thursday, November 20, 2025, sending shockwaves through the industry and leaving fans heartbroken.
A Heavy-Hearted Announcement
The sad news was first shared by the musician's own brother, Greg Mounfield, in a poignant social media post. Greg Mounfield announced on Facebook, "It is with the heaviest hearts that I have to announce the sad passing of my brother Gary Mani Mounfield. RIP RKID." This simple yet devastating message prompted an immediate and emotional outpouring from fellow artists and admirers across the globe.
An Outpouring of Grief from Music Icons
Fellow Mancunian and Oasis star Liam Gallagher was among the first to express his profound shock and sorrow. Taking to X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, Liam Gallagher wrote: "IN TOTAL SHOCK AND ABSOLUTELY DEVASTATED ON HEARING THE NEWS ABOUT MANI MY HERO RIP RKID LG."
His sentiments were echoed by Mani's former bandmate, The Stone Roses' lead singer Ian Brown, who posted a brief but powerful tribute: "REST IN PEACE MANI X". The bond between the members of the iconic Manchester band remained strong long after their heyday.
Other prominent figures in music quickly shared their memories and condolences:
- Rowetta (Happy Mondays): "Back with your Imelda, Mani. Going to miss you so much."
- Tim Burgess (The Charlatans) shared a smiling photo with Mani, calling him "one of the absolute best in every way - such a beautiful friend."
- Ian McCulloch (Echo & the Bunnymen) expressed he was "absolutely gutted," adding, "I have always loved and always will love, deeply and forever. Like a brother."
A Life and Legacy Beyond the Stage
Mani's passing comes as a second profound loss for his family in a short period. His wife, Imelda, tragically passed away almost two years ago from stage-four bowel cancer. Together, the couple were dedicated fundraisers, raising an incredible more than £100,000 for cancer charities.
The musician is survived by his twin sons, Gene and George, who were born in January 2013 and are now 12 years old. A resident of Heaton Moor, Stockport, Mani was known as a lifelong Manchester United fan with strong Irish roots. His influence as the bassist for The Stone Roses, one of the most seminal bands of the Madchester era, cemented his status as a true icon of British rock, a legacy that will undoubtedly live on through his music and the countless artists he inspired.
