A somber procession wound its way through the streets of Manchester, a final farewell to Gary “Mani” Mounfield, the iconic bassist whose infectious energy defined a generation. Liam Gallagher, his face etched with respect, stood among the pallbearers, physically supporting the weight of a musical legacy.
Mani, a cornerstone of The Stone Roses and a vital force within Primal Scream, passed away last month at 63, leaving a void in the music world. The cathedral service wasn’t just a funeral; it was a gathering of those whose lives he touched, a testament to a spirit that radiated warmth and genuine connection.
Ian Brown, frontman of The Stone Roses, delivered a poignant tribute, his voice thick with emotion. He called for a monumental tribute – a 50ft gold statue – to honor his “brother,” remembering Mani’s remarkable ability to find laughter even in the darkest of times.
The air resonated with the opening chords of “I Wanna Be Adored” as friends and family entered, a subtle yet powerful acknowledgment of the bassist’s extraordinary talent. It was a song that embodied the spirit of a band, and a man, who dared to dream in vibrant color.
Bobby Gillespie of Primal Scream shared a personal anecdote, recalling the instant connection he felt upon meeting Mani. He spoke of being treated as an equal, a gesture that resonated deeply and left an indelible mark on his memory.
Gillespie continued, painting a picture of Mani’s sharp wit and unwavering honesty. He possessed a rare ability to cut through pretense, offering a grounding perspective that was both humbling and appreciated, even by those on the receiving end.
Mani’s journey with The Stone Roses spanned a decade, shaping the sound of an era. He later spent fifteen years with Primal Scream, and then rejoined The Stone Roses for their celebrated reunion, demonstrating a loyalty and passion for his craft that never wavered.
Among the mourners were musical giants – Paul Weller, Aziz Ibrahim, and Mike Joyce – alongside footballing legends Sir David Beckham and Gary Neville. The presence of such diverse figures underscored the breadth of Mani’s influence and the depth of his appeal.
Oasis, a band profoundly influenced by The Stone Roses, acknowledged the debt they owed to Mani and his bandmates. Their music, born from the same Manchester streets, carried the echoes of a revolution ignited by The Stone Roses.
Beyond the stage, Mani was remembered as a profoundly kind and genuine soul. Friends spoke of his unwavering warmth, his ability to make anyone feel valued, and his infectious zest for life. He was, simply, “a proper one of the boys,” as Bez of the Happy Mondays described him.
The grief was palpable, yet interwoven with celebration. Hundreds of mod scooters formed a vibrant procession, a rolling tribute to a man who embraced life with open arms. Flowers adorned the hearse, bearing the simple, heartfelt message: “R Kid.”
His brother, Greg, announced the devastating news on Facebook, speaking of a “heavy heart.” He later revealed the poignant reunion with Mani’s beloved wife, Imelda, who tragically passed away two years prior after a courageous battle with cancer.
Mani’s passing leaves behind twin sons and a legacy of music, laughter, and genuine human connection. He wasn’t just a bassist; he was a force of nature, a Manchester icon, and a friend to all who knew him. His spirit will continue to resonate through the music he helped create and the memories he left behind.
