Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield, best known for being the bassist for the legendary Manchester band The Stone Roses, has sadly died today (November 20) at the age of 63. With Mani on bass, Ian Brown on vocals, John Squire on guitar and Alan “Reni” Wren on drums, The Stone Roses were at the forefront of the “Madchester” indie scene of the late 1980s and early 90s.
The Stone Roses’ debut album featured well-known songs like I Wanna Be Adored, She Bangs The Drums and I Am The Resurrection, all with Mani’s distinctive bass lines to create the band’s signature “baggy” sound. He later reunited with The Stone Roses for their 2012 comeback tour.
The Crumpsall-born bassist also spent 15 years, starting in 1996, with Scottish rock band Primal Scream, first playing on their album Vanishing Point. Primal Scream currently consists of Bobby Gillespie (vocals), Andrew Innes (guitar), Simone Butler (bass), and Darrin Mooney (drums).
Mani’s death was announced by his brother, Greg, in a Facebook post. Mani had recently planned a major UK speaking tour for 2026-2027 to discuss key career highlights, including the Spike Island 1990 show and the 2012 reunion.
Tributes to Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield
The Stone Roses posted on social media, saying: “RIP our wonderful brother Mani. The greatest bass player and friend we could ever have wished for. X”
Oasis singer Liam Gallagher also paid tribute to the bassist, saying: “In total shock and absolutely devastated on hearing the news about Mani. My hero, RIP R Kid.”
Singer and The Stone Roses bandmate Ian Brown also said on X: “REST IN PEACE MANi X.”
The Manchester-born musician was also a keen fan of Manchester United FC, and often spoke about the team on TV and radio.