Gary “Mani” Mounfield, the renowned bassist of The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, died at 63 after collapsing from a seizure at his home. Mani’s brother Greg confirmed his passing with a statement on Facebook: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce the sad passing of my brother. Gary Mani Mounfield RIP.” Mani was a key figure in the Stone Roses’ classic lineup, joining the band in 1987 and contributing to both of their studio albums – 1989’s iconic self-titled record and its long-delayed follow-up, 1994’s Second Coming – and the bassist rejoined the band during their 2011-2017 reunion. Following the Stone Roses original break up, Mani played with Primal Scream from 1996 to 2011, and appeared on 1997’s Mercury Prize nominated album, Vanishing Point, and 2000’s critically acclaimed XTRMNTR.
Just two weeks prior to his death, Mani announced a spoken-word tour planned for 2026-2027, where the musician was going to reflect on his life and his celebrated career. Tributes have come pouring in from Mani’s music peers and bandmates, with Stone Roses’ singer Ian Brown writing simply, “REST IN PEACE MANi X,” and Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher posting on X, “IN TOTAL SHOCK AND ABSOLUTELY DEVASTATED ON HEARING THE NEWS ABOUT MANI MY HERO RIP RKID,” while Echo & the Bunnymen’s Ian McCulloch shared: “I’m absolutely gutted to hear the news about Mani, who I have always loved and always will love, deeply and forever. Like a brother. I am in shock to be honest. Please tell me I’m just having a bad, bad dream.” Mani leaves behind twin sons, after his wife Imelda passed away from cancer two years ago. (Consequence of Sound)
