Caitlin Connors
Gary Mounfield known to his fans as “Mani” has passed away 20 November 2025 at age 63. It was announced by his brother Greg Mounfield through a Facebook post where he said, “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce the sad passing of my brother. Gary Mani Mounfield RIP.”He had collapsed at his home in Stockport. This came as a. shock as just recently Mani had announced a talking tour, An Evening With Gary “Mani” Mounfield. It was due to begin in September 2026.
Early Beginnings
Mani was born on 16 November 1962, in Crumpsall, Manchester. At age 16, Mani left school to join the Manchester music scene.Here, Mani began to make a name for himself in the indie psychedelic scene that would later earn the name “Madchester.” He jumped from project to project, but eventually Mani and John Squire landed themselves in the band Waterfront. In 1983, after recording a few tracks, Ian Brown came on board to form the band we all know today, The Stone Roses.
The Stone Roses to the Second Coming
In 1989, The Stone Roses released their debut self titled album The Stone Roses. This album captured the spirit of the new wave indie scene. It blended dreamy guitar riffs and beautiful lyrics with a 60s feel and a punk attitude. Mani’s groovy baselines helped define the band’s signature sound. After issues behind the scenes, it took the band another five years to drop their second and final album Second Coming. Between 1989 and 1994, the music scene had shifted. This was shown by the album’s mixed reception by critics. The band tried touring the album but the group disbanded in 1996 after John Squire (lead guitar) and Reni (drums) had left the group.
Primal Scream
The break up of The Stone Roses did not stop Mani from continuing in the music scene. Mani joined Primal Scream in 1996 and played as part of the band for fifteen years. They were rewarded with Mani’s psychedelia beauty basslines to tracks such as Kill All Hippies, Vanishing Point and Kowalski.
Back For More
The Stone Roses reunited for a reunion tour in 2012. During this time Shane Meadows directed a documentary called The Stone Roses: Made of Stone. They performed their last gig as a band in 2017 in Hampden Park, Glasgow.
Forever In Our Hearts
Mani’s influence in The Stone Roses remains immense.They are known for inspiring Oasis after Liam Gallagher watched them perform live. Mani was a once in a generation bassist. He lived by his own words and made beautiful music that excited so many people. His music and his influence will live on forever.
