Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield, stone Roses and Primal Scream Bassist, Dies at 63
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A wave of grief has swept through the music world following the death of Gary “Mani” Mounfield, the celebrated bassist for iconic bands The Stone Roses and Primal Scream.Mounfield passed away on Thursday, November 20, at the age of 63, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking music and a profound impact on the Manchester music scene.
A Manchester Legend Remembered
Radio personality Paddy McGuinness paid tribute to Mounfield during his Sunday, November 23, broadcast of ‘Morning Plotters!’ on BBC Radio 2, live from Salford. McGuinness described the musician as a “Manchester legend” and acknowledged the “sad loss for the city.” He shared, “Following the sad news of the passing of Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield we’re playing tribute to the Stone Roses and Primal Scream’s legendary bassist.” He further recounted his personal experiences, stating, “I’ve got to say, I’ve met Mani numerous times over the years. He’s a complete Manchester legend and he always had time for me. Such a sad loss for the city.” McGuinness honored Mounfield by playing The Stone Roses’ “Waterfall,” dedicating it to his memory with the simple phrase, “This one’s for you, pal.”
From Crumpsall to International Acclaim
Born in Crumpsall,Manchester,Mounfield rose to prominence in the 1980s as a founding member of The stone Roses. His distinctive bass lines were integral to the band’s signature sound,featured on both of their critically acclaimed albums. Mounfield remained with The Stone Roses until their initial disbandment in 1996. He later joined Primal Scream, contributing to their musical evolution before ultimately leaving in 2011 to participate in the reformation of The Stone Roses.
Why did he die? Gary “Mani” Mounfield died on November 20, 2024, at the age of 63. The cause of death has not been officially released. However, his passing came less than two years after the death of his wife, Imelda, from bowel cancer, and followed a period of personal grief.
A Profound Loss and Outpouring of Grief
The news of Mounfield’s death arrived less than two years after the passing of his wife, Imelda, who succumbed to bowel cancer in 2023 after being diagnosed in 2020. His brother,Greg Mounfield,announced the tragic news on Facebook,writing,”It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce the sad passing of my brother Gary Mani Mounfield. RIP RKID.” In a subsequent comment, Greg added a poignant sentiment: “Reunited with his beautiful wife Imelda.”
Tributes have poured in from across the music industry. Who mourns his loss? Fellow musicians, fans, and public figures have expressed their sadness and admiration for Mounfield’s talent and personality. Primal Scream posted a statement on X (formerly Twitter) calling him a “bass player and friend we could ever have wished for.”
What was his impact? Mani’s contributions to british music were meaningful, helping to shape the sound of two influential bands and inspiring countless musicians. How did his career end? While he rejoined The Stone Roses for a reunion period, he ultimately stepped back from the band, leaving a lasting legacy of innovation and musicality.
