Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield of Stone Roses and Primal Scream dead at 63

Gary “Mani” Mounfield, the legendary bassist for The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, has died at 63, leaving the music world in shock. His family confirmed the news yesterday, and tributes immediately poured in from artists, fans and industry figures who viewed Mani as one of the most influential musicians to emerge from Manchester’s storied scene. Reports from The Guardian, New York Post and DJ Mag all aligned on his passing, underscoring the impact he had across rock, indie and alternative culture.

A bass player who bridged indie, rave, and rock culture

Mani shaped the sound of an entire era as The Stone Roses’ low-end engine, driving the band’s 1989 self-titled masterpiece with basslines that blended groove, swagger and dance-floor energy. His playing helped define the Madchester movement, and it bridged guitar music with rave culture at a moment when those worlds rarely touched. After The Stone Roses dissolved in 1996, Mani joined Primal Scream, and he strengthened their shift into darker, heavier and more experimental territory across albums like XTRMNTR, Vanishing Point and Evil Heat. His role in both bands placed him at the center of two genre-shaping revolutions.

Tributes quickly highlighted the depth of his influence. Ian Brown called him a “brother.” Liam Gallagher said he felt “absolutely devastated” by the news. Peter Hook of New Order and Joy Division struggled to find words, sharing an emotional message that reflected how deeply Mani touched his peers. Manchester’s music community saluted him as a symbol of the city’s spirit and creativity, while fans worldwide shared memories of the groove that powered their youth.

Mani’s life journey stood as a testament to commitment and passion. He once said he came from a tough area in north Manchester and ended up circling the world multiple times through music—a line that now feels even more poetic. In recent months, he prepared for a UK speaking tour and remained engaged with fans, proving that his connection to music never faded.

He is survived by his twin sons, and his legacy now returns to the center of global conversation as musicians and fans revisit the records that reshaped British music forever. Gary “Mani” Mounfield didn’t just hold down the rhythm. He gave entire scenes their backbone, and his influence will continue to echo through generations.

H/T: BBC