The music world is reeling from the sudden loss of Gary “Mani” Mounfield, the iconic bassist of The Stone Roses, who passed away at his home in Stockport at the age of 63. News of his death broke on November 20th, leaving a void in the hearts of fans and fellow musicians alike.
Ian Brown, frontman of The Stone Roses, has been seen for the first time since the devastating news. Photographed in Greater Manchester, Brown appeared somber, his long grey hair and beard framing a face etched with grief. He walked with his hands tucked into the pockets of a black puffer coat, a picture of quiet mourning.
Mounfield’s impact extended far beyond The Stone Roses’ celebrated albums. He was a vital component of the band’s classic lineup alongside Brown, John Squire, and Alan ‘Reni’ Wren, shaping a sound that defined a generation. His musical journey continued with a remarkable 15-year tenure as the bassist for Primal Scream, and a later return to The Stone Roses for their highly anticipated reunion.
The outpouring of tributes has been immense, reflecting the deep respect and affection held for Mounfield. Kasabian remembered him as a “beautiful man, Manchester Icon,” while Happy Mondays singer Rowetta expressed her profound sadness, stating she would miss him dearly.
Shaun Ryder simply offered his heartfelt condolences to Mounfield’s twin sons and family. Richard Ashcroft of The Verve described him as “one of the loveliest positive musicians,” and Liam Fray of The Courteeners confessed that his death felt like “true sadness.”
Mounfield’s passion for Manchester United was well-known, and the club plans to honor his memory before their upcoming match against Everton. They acknowledged that he was “part of the club’s DNA” and proudly “Red” through and through.
This loss arrives just two years after the heartbreaking death of Mounfield’s wife, who succumbed to bowel cancer in November 2023. The couple, married since meeting during a recording session in 1994, shared a deep and enduring love.
Beyond his celebrated work with The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, Mounfield explored other creative avenues, appearing in the film 24 Hour Party People and contributing to the supergroup Freebass. Yet, it was his role in The Stone Roses’ reunion in 2013 that resonated deeply with fans, culminating in memorable performances at Heaton Park and Wembley Stadium.
Their final concert as the classic lineup, at Glasgow’s Hampden Park in 2017, was a poignant moment. Brown’s words that night – “Don’t be sad that it’s over; be happy that it happened” – now carry a particularly resonant weight, a bittersweet echo of a remarkable musical journey.
The initial tribute from Ian Brown on social media, a simple “REST IN PEACE MANi X,” spoke volumes, encapsulating the profound loss felt by a bandmate and friend.
