Stone Roses and Primal Scream bassist Gary “Mani” Mounfield has died at age 63, nearly two years after losing his wife, Imelda, to cancer. The influential rocker’s passing was confirmed on Nov. 20 by his brother Greg in an emotional Facebook announcement seen by fans across the world.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce the sad passing of my brother Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield. RIP RKid,” Greg wrote, later adding that Mani was now reunited with his “beautiful wife Imelda.” The couple shared 12-year-old twin sons, Gene and George.
Mounfield became a defining force in British rock as the bassist for the Stone Roses, performing alongside Ian Brown, John Squire and Alan “Reni” Wren. Their groundbreaking 1989 debut album remains one of the most celebrated records in alternative rock history. After the band’s initial breakup in 1996, Mani joined Primal Scream, contributing to some of the group’s most memorable work over a 15-year run.
He later rejoined the Stone Roses for their major reunion, performing live again starting in 2011 and contributing to the band’s 2016 comeback singles before they disbanded once more in 2017.
Just weeks before his death, Mounfield appeared on the Rockonteurs podcast, reflecting on the Stone Roses’ early confidence and teasing his desire to return to music. “I’m in a great space at the moment,” he said. “I’m itching to get back. I’m so bored. One never knows… I’m feeling now that I could pick up again.”
Tributes began pouring in immediately, including a heartfelt message from Liam Gallagher, who described himself as “in total shock.”
“My hero. RIP RKID,” Gallagher wrote on X, adding that Mani had been a guiding influence throughout his career. On the podcast, Mounfield had shared that Gallagher often told him, “If it wouldn’t have been for you, there’d be no me.”
Mounfield had recently spent time with Gallagher at boxer Ricky Hatton’s funeral and said he cherished their long-running friendship, adding that he felt proud to have “passed the baton” to another major Manchester band.
As the music world mourns the loss of a true icon, fans remember Gary “Mani” Mounfield for his groundbreaking sound, his unwavering spirit, and his lasting impact on rock music history.
