Introduction

Gary “Mani” Mounfield, the legendary bassist of The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, has died at age 63. His passing has sent shockwaves through the music world, prompting tributes from fellow musicians, fans, and friends. While his brother shared that Mani collapsed at home and could not be revived, the exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed. Mani’s death follows deeply personal loss—his wife Imelda passed away in 2023 after a battle with cancer—and leaves behind a powerful legacy in British rock and dance culture.

Who He Was

Born 16 November 1962 in Crumpsall, Manchester, Gary Mounfield emerged from the heart of the Madchester scene to become one of its defining figures. As “Mani,” he assumed a role far beyond that of a traditional bassist — he helped shape the pulsing, hypnotic rhythm that made The Stone Roses an enduring influence. After The Stone Roses disbanded in the mid-’90s, Mani joined Primal Scream, contributing to their more expansive, groove-driven evolution.

Their Connection to the Trend: Why This Is Making Headlines Now

The news of Mani’s death has ignited a global outpouring of grief. Fans are revisiting the Madchester era, streaming his most iconic bass lines, and sharing stories of his kindness and musical genius. Meanwhile, tributes have poured in from major figures in music — Ian Brown, Tim Burgess, Rowetta, and even Liam Gallagher.

His passing also brings renewed reflection on his personal life. Mani had recently announced a speaking tour for 2026–2027, planned to revisit moments from his career. Tragically, he won’t be on that stage — but that planned tour now weighs even more heavily, as fans and loved ones consider the chapters he never got to close.

Early Life & Childhood

Gary grew up in Manchester, where music was more than a pastime — it was part of his identity. He attended Xaverian College in Rusholme, but his real education came through sound. As a teenager, he gravitated toward the guitar, but soon found his calling on the bass. His early exposure to local bands, combined with his passion for the emerging post-punk and indie scenes, set him on a path toward greatness.

Family & Personal Life

Mani’s personal life was marked by love, struggle, and resilience. He married Imelda Mounfield, with whom he had twin sons, Gene and George. In 2023, Imelda died after a tough battle with stage-4 bowel cancer. Together, Mani and Imelda had become active in cancer fundraising — auctioning memorabilia donated by friends in the music world, including items from Oasis and David Beckham. His brother Greg announced Mani’s death via Facebook, expressing sorrow and noting that Mani would be “reunited with his beautiful wife Imelda.”

Career & Musical Achievements

Mani joined The Stone Roses in 1987, just as their influence was about to explode. His basslines became foundational elements of their classic sound, particularly on tracks from their 1989 debut album. Even after the band’s 1996 split, Mani remained musically active — he joined Primal Scream, wielding his bass to push the boundaries of their sound.

When The Stone Roses reunited in 2011, Mani rejoined them, helping reclaim their legacy on stage. Beyond live performances, he was beloved even in quieter moments — a musician who understood rhythm, groove, and space. His presence in two of the UK’s most influential bands cemented his status as a titan of his generation.

Struggles & Reported Cause of Death

According to reports, Mani collapsed at his home in Heaton Moor, Stockport, and despite the arrival of paramedics, he could not be revived. His death was announced by his brother, Greg, who expressed that Mani was now “reunited” with Imelda.

As of now, no official cause of death has been publicly confirmed, and several news outlets note that the family has not released further details. While speculation is rife, fans and the media alike are urging respect and privacy at this deeply painful time.

Legacy & Impact

Mani’s legacy reaches across generations. With The Stone Roses, he helped define the Madchester movement, delivering bass lines that felt effortless yet powerful. With Primal Scream, he channeled his talents toward more expansive, experimental sounds. His influence shaped the rhythm of British indie music.

Musicians remember him for more than technical skill — they speak of his warmth, his wit, and his generosity. Tim Burgess called him “one of the absolute best in every way … such a beautiful friend.” Ian Brown simply posted, “REST IN PEACE MANI X.” Mani’s humility made him beloved; his bass made him immortal.

Interesting Facts

1. Mani was born on 16 November 1962 in Crumpsall, Manchester.

2. He attended Xaverian College before fully dedicating himself to music.

3. He and Imelda held charity auctions during her cancer battle, raising funds for The Christie Hospital and Stockport NHS.

4. Mani supported Manchester United and maintained Irish roots.

5. He had planned an in-conversation tour for 2026–2027 to celebrate his career — a tour he sadly never got to embark on.

 

Recent News & Tributes

• Word of Mani’s death first came from his brother Greg Mounfield on social media.

• Tributes have poured in from the music world: Rowetta of Happy Mondays, Tim Burgess, and Liam Gallagher among them.

• His planned speaking tour — meant to explore his decades in music, the 1990 Spike Island gig, and the Stone Roses’ reunion — now stands as one final imagined journey.

 

Conclusion

Gary “Mani” Mounfield was more than a bassist — he was a keeper of rhythm, a generator of groove, and a deeply loved figure in British music. His contributions to The Stone Roses and Primal Scream helped shape a generation of sound. His loss is felt widely, by family, fans, and fellow artists. While the pain is fresh and the cause of his collapse remains unconfirmed, one truth remains clear: his legacy endures, his bass lines echo, and his spirit lives on.

FAQs

Q: Who was Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield?
A: He was the bassist for The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, central to the Madchester musical era.

Q: What was the cause of Mani’s death?
A: Reports say Mani collapsed at home and died, but no official cause of death has been publicly confirmed.

Q: Did he have a family?
A: Yes — Mani is survived by his twin sons, Gene and George, and was reunited in death with his late wife Imelda, who died in 2023.

Q: What were his major musical achievements?
A: He played on The Stone Roses’ iconic debut album, helped define their sound, later joined Primal Scream, and was active until their 2011 reformation.

Q: How are fans reacting?
A: Tributes are pouring in from Manchester legends and international musicians. He’s remembered for both his musical prowess and his warm personality.