Alfonso “Fonzo” Buller died Monday at his home in Cornwall. His death, the cause of which is not yet known (but people around him said he hadn't been feeling well lately), was celebrated and honored by the greats of the Manchester scene, from Liam Gallagher to Ian Brown. The reason? Fonzo, a Mancurian by birth but Belizean by origin, was a fundamental figure for the city's nightlife.
Oasis fans probably know, even if only unconsciously, what we're talking about. In fact, in last year's reunion tour, its famous motto “Manchester vibes in the area” (MVITA) was used by the band from date to date, only changing the name of the city at each concert. «RIP FONZO MVITA REWIND», Liam's tweet in his memory. Followed by the simple «MVITA» by Paul Bonehead Arthurs, also from the Oasis family.
RIP FONZO MVITA REWIND
— Liam Gallagher (@liamgallagher) February 3, 2026
Rest in Peace Alfonso Buller a King and Lion of Manchester
— Ian Brown (@ianbrown) February 3, 2026
MVITA was also a soundsystem, started in the 80s in Manchester, of which Fonzo was one of the leading figures. His granddaughter Kya, announcing his passing, remembered him as the one who brought “house and garage music to local pubs, organizing underground raves and ultimately providing the sound for artists such as Happy Mondays, Stone Roses, New Order, 808 State and many others”. An integral part of the extended Stone Roses and Happy Mondays families, with MVITA Fonzo was part of the historic Roses concert at Spike Island (“RIP Alfondo Buller, a king and a lion of Manchester”, the words of Ian Brown) and played several times as a DJ with the band at Glastonbury.
But Bez and Rowetta from Happy Mondays also wanted to remember him. The first, with whom he shared the role of vibe makerwrote: «Fonso! Things will be a little calmer from now on.” While Rowetta, posting a photo of the two of them together, described him as a “true gentleman who has always supported me”.
Ilan Ingram, on the other hand, a friend and manager since the time of MVITA in 1986: «We were historical friends. I spoke to him a few days ago, he wasn't doing so well, but I'm shocked at how it ended. I can't believe it.”
