The soundtrack to countless lives has lost one of its principal composers with the passing of Gary “Mani” Mounfield. The beloved bassist, famous for his work with the iconic bands The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, has died at the age of 63. As the music world grapples with this sudden loss, details regarding his cause of death have not been released, allowing the focus to remain on the joy and rhythm he brought to so many. Mani was widely regarded as one of the most genuine and cherished figures in rock, a musician who played with both technical mastery and palpable heart.
The news was broken by his brother, Greg Mounfield, in a moving online post that simply read, “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce the sad passing of my brother Gary Mani Mounfield. RIP RKID.” He followed this with a touching sentiment that provided a small measure of comfort to those grieving, writing that Mani was now “reunited with his beautiful wife Imelda,” who passed away from cancer in 2023. This connection underscored the deep personal loss his family has endured.
The event unfolded at his home in Heaton Moor, Stockport, where emergency services were called on the morning of Thursday, November 20th. Neighbors knew him as a quiet man who valued his privacy and was dedicated to his family. One resident mentioned he would occasionally collect parcels for him but that he largely kept to himself, a picture of a man who enjoyed a peaceful life away from the roar of the concert arena. The arrival of ambulances was a sudden and alarming interruption to the quiet of the neighborhood.
Mani’s career was a masterclass in musical evolution and influence. His entry into The Stone Roses marked a turning point, infusing the band with a rhythmic confidence that became their signature. He wasn’t just keeping time; he was crafting unforgettable melodies on his bass guitar that defined an entire musical movement. After the Roses, his move to Primal Scream demonstrated his incredible adaptability and enduring relevance, cementing his status as a true rock icon. His powerful, grooving lines are studied and admired by aspiring bassists to this day.
Away from the spotlight, Mani was a man of simple and heartfelt pleasures. He was an avid fisherman, a passion that connected him to nature and his childhood in Manchester. He was also a known fan of darts, celebrating it as a sport of skill and nerve. Above all, he was a dedicated family man. The memory of his wife Imelda was kept alive through charitable work, and he was a proud father to his twin sons. The announcement of a planned speaking tour for 2026 had generated excitement, offering a promise of hearing his legendary stories firsthand. The overwhelming response from fellow musicians, including a devastated Liam Gallagher, speaks volumes about the void he has left behind—a void of sound, spirit, and brotherhood.
