Stone Roses Legend Mani Dead at 63: Fans Worldwide Rush to Pay Tribute

Intro Gary “Mani” Mounfield—the beloved bassist for Manchester icons The Stone Roses and later Primal Scream—has died aged 63, according to a statement from his brother Greg shared on social media. News of the musician’s passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from bandmates, fellow artists and fans worldwide. A Manchester Legend’s Road From Crumpsall to Global Stages Born in Crumpsall in 1962, Mani joined The Stone Roses in 1987, locking in the groove for era-defining tracks such as “I Wanna Be Adored” and “Fools Gold.” His melodic, dance-infused bass lines were crucial to the so-called Madchester sound that fused indie rock with acid-house rhythms, inspiring countless Britpop and alternative acts. Key Milestones • 1989: Self-titled debut album The Stone Roses earns universal acclaim and later tops “greatest albums” polls. • 1994: Second Coming showcases a heavier, blues-leaning style. • 1996: After the Roses’ breakup, Mani joins Primal Scream, contributing to albums XTRMNTR and Evil Heat. • 2012 & 2016: Stone Roses reunion tours break UK ticket-sale records and headline major festivals. Reaction From the Music World Frontman Ian Brown posted “REST IN PEACE MANi X,” while Primal Scream’s Bobby Gillespie hailed him as “the beating heart of every band he played in.” Liam Gallagher, Tim Burgess and Noel Gallagher also shared messages celebrating Mani’s humour, generosity and unmistakable bass tone. Fan Vigil Planned in Manchester’s Northern Quarter Supporters have begun organising a candle-lit gathering at Stevenson Square this weekend, where a street mural of Mani already attracts daily visitors. Local record shops are planning to spin Stone Roses bootlegs and rare Primal Scream B-sides in his honour. Streaming Surge and Vinyl Reissues Within hours of the announcement, global streams of “She Bangs the Drums” jumped over 700 percent, according to early Spotify trend data. Industry insiders say both bands’ catalogues are poised for deluxe vinyl reissues before Christmas to meet renewed demand. Why Mani’s Groove Endures Musicians cite Mani’s knack for marrying dub weight with Motown swing; DJs still weave his bass lines into modern house sets. Music historian John Robb notes that “without Mani, the cross-pollination between rave culture and guitar music would have taken years longer to ignite.” What Happens Next The Stone Roses have not issued a formal statement on whether previously rumoured new material will surface. For now, the focus remains on celebrating Mani’s legacy and supporting his family, who have requested privacy while funeral arrangements are finalised. Conclusion From warehouse parties in Hulme to sold-out stadiums worldwide, Mani’s low-slung bass and infectious spirit defined a generation. Manchester’s skyline may be changing, but the pulse he laid down will reverberate through playlists, pubs and festival fields for decades to come.