Gary “Mani” Mounfield, historic Stone Roses bassist and Primal Scream mainstay for fifteen years, has passed away at the age of 63.
Brother Greg, in a Facebook post, wrote: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I must announce the sad passing of my brother Gary Mani Mounfield. RIP Kid.”
The musician would have died at his home in Heaton Moor Stockport, after collapsing following an epileptic seizure. Family sources say an ambulance was called, but he could not be revived. The news comes two years after his wife Imelda Mounfield died of cancer. The couple had twins, born in 2013.
Born in Crumpsall, Manchester, Mounfield had become a central figure on the British scene thanks to his work on the two Stone Roses albums, with whom he remained linked until their dissolution in 1996, before joining Primal Scream. In 2011 he also left that project to dedicate himself to reconstituting the Stone Roses. He was also part of the super-group Freebass, together with bassists such as Andy Rourke (ex-The Smiths) and Peter Hook (Joy Division/New Order).
Among the first tributes from colleagues, that of Liam Gallagher (Oasis), who wrote that he was “totally in shock” and “absolutely devastated”, while Shaun Ryder of Happy Mondays wrote: “RIP Mani, my deepest condolences to his twins and all his family” and Rowetta of Happy Mondays, on they loved.”
Among the messages of condolence also that of Peter Hook, who commented: “Oh God. Hands… this time I'm at a loss for words, really. I can't believe it. I send all my love to his family. It's so sad. Rest in peace friend. Love, Hooky. X”.
Charlatans singer Tim Burgess shared a photo taken a few days ago of the couple together celebrating Mounfield's 63rd birthday: “One of the best ever in every way. Such a wonderful friend.”
Mounfield's death comes after the announcement of a UK tour, during which he would recount his experiences and memories with the Stone Roses and Primal Scream starting in September 2026 entitled “The Stone Roses, Primal Scream, and Me – An Intimate Evening with Gary 'Mani' Mounfield”.
Antonio Santini for SANREMO.FM
