Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield, Stone Roses and Primal Scream Bassist, Dies at 63
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A legendary figure in British music, Gary “Mani” Mounfield has died at the age of 63, it was announced on Thursday, November 20, 2025. The bassist, renowned for his work with iconic bands The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, passed away leaving behind a legacy of musical innovation and a devoted fanbase. Details surrounding his death have not yet been confirmed.
From Crumpsall to Cultural Icon
Born and raised in Crumpsall, Manchester, Mounfield’s musical journey began in his youth. He attended Xaverian College in Rusholme before leaving school at 16 to pursue a career in music. This path led him to join The Stone Roses in 1987, a band that would become synonymous with the Madchester scene and a defining force in British alternative rock.
The Stone Roses and Beyond
Mounfield’s distinctive basslines were integral to the sound of The Stone Roses throughout their initial run, contributing to hits that continue to resonate with audiences today. He remained with the band until their disbandment in 1996. Following this, he joined Primal Scream, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and influential musician. In 2011, Mounfield announced the reformation of The Stone Roses, delighting fans and sparking a renewed wave of excitement around the band.
A Personal Loss
The musician’s passing follows a period of profound personal grief. Mounfield lost his wife, Imelda, in November 2023, after a three-year battle with bowel cancer. The couple shared twin sons, Gene and George, born in January 2013, who were 12 years old at the time of his death. His brother, Greg, first announced the news on social media, writing: “IT IS WITH THE HEAVIEST OF HEARTS THAT I HAVE TO ANNOUNCE THE SAD PASSING OF MY BROTHER GARY MANI MOUNFIELD. RIP RKID.”
Tributes Pour In
News of Mounfield’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians and fans alike. Rowetta, singer with the Happy Mondays, posted on X: “Going to miss you so much. All my love to the boys, the family & all those who knew & loved him.” Ian Brown, lead singer of The Stone Roses, simply wrote on X: “REST IN PEACE MANI X.” Tim Burgess, frontman of The Charlatans, shared a recent photograph of the pair, taken during Mounfield’s 63rd birthday celebrations, and described him as “One of the absolute best in every way. Such a beautiful friend.”
A Recent Tour and Passion for Football
Mounfield was a lifelong supporter of Manchester United, actively participating in fan and community events. He had recently announced a UK storytelling tour, promising fans intimate insights into his experiences with The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, as well as anecdotes from throughout his career.
The announcement regarding his passing was made on Thursday afternoon, November 20. As this is a developing story, further details are expected to emerge in the coming days.
