What's happened
Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, bassist of The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, has died at age 63. His death was confirmed by Ian Brown and others, with tributes pouring in from peers and fans. Mounfield was known for his influential basslines and contributions to Manchester's music scene. He was scheduled for a speaking tour in 2026.
What's behind the headline?
Mani's death marks the loss of a key figure in British indie and alternative rock. His basslines defined the sound of The Stone Roses, influencing countless bands. The widespread tributes highlight his impact on peers and fans, emphasizing his role in shaping Manchester's musical identity. The timing of his scheduled 2026 speaking tour suggests he remained active and respected in the music community. His passing underscores the enduring legacy of the Manchester scene and the importance of bass guitar in defining a band's sound. The emotional reactions from prominent musicians reveal his influence and the void his absence leaves in the industry. This event will likely accelerate discussions about the legacy of 80s and 90s British bands and their ongoing influence.
What the papers say
The articles from NY Post, AP News, The Scotsman, and Sky News collectively confirm Mani's death, with consistent details about his career, tributes from Ian Brown, Liam Gallagher, and others, and mention of his scheduled 2026 speaking tour. The sources highlight his significance in the Manchester music scene and his collaborations with bands like The Stone Roses and Primal Scream. While all sources agree on his death and impact, some emphasize his influence more, such as The Scotsman and NY Post, which detail his musical contributions and personal life. AP News provides a succinct confirmation from Ian Brown, adding to the credibility of the reports. The coverage collectively underscores his importance as a musician and his legacy within the industry.
How we got here
Mani Mounfield, born in 1962 in Crumpsall, England, rose to fame as the bassist for The Stone Roses, a band pivotal to the Manchester music scene. After their initial split in 1996, he joined Primal Scream, contributing to several albums. His career included collaborations, a supergroup, and a role in the 2022 film '24 Hour Party People.' He was married to Imelda, with whom he had two sons, and was a Manchester United fan.
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