Gary “Mani” Mounfield, the legendary bassist of Manchester band The Stone Roses, has died at the age of 63.

Recognized as a fundamental part of the Stone Roses’ signature sound across their two classic albums, Mani reunited with the group in 2012 for their long-awaited comeback tour. In 1996, he joined another influential band, Primal Scream, where he played for 15 years.

The news was confirmed by his brother, Greg Mounfield, who announced the death “with the heaviest heart” in a Facebook post. Stone Roses frontman Ian Brown paid tribute on X, writing: “REST IN PEACE MANi X.”

Oasis singer Liam Gallagher also expressed his grief: “In total shock and absolutely devastated to hear the news about Mani. My hero. RIP R Kid.”

Mani lost his wife, Imelda, in November 2023, three years after she was diagnosed with bowel cancer. The couple leaves behind twin boys, born in 2013.

Happy Mondays frontman Shaun Ryder wrote: “RIP Mani — my heartfelt condolences to his boys and all of his family.”Rowetta, also of Happy Mondays, shared a photo with Mani and Imelda, writing: “Going to miss you so much. All my love to the boys, the family, and everyone who knew and loved him.”

The Charlatans’ singer Tim Burgess posted a recent picture of the two celebrating Mani’s 63rd birthday: “One of the absolute best in every way. Such a beautiful friend.”

With Mani on bass, Ian Brown on vocals, John Squire on guitar, and Alan “Reni” Wren on drums, The Stone Roses stood at the forefront of the late-1980s and early-90s Madchester scene. Their debut album, released in 1989, and its follow-up Second Coming (1994), both reached the UK top five.

After the band split in 1996, Mani joined Primal Scream and remained with them until the Stone Roses reunited in 2012. The group released two additional singles in 2016 and performed again in 2017 before parting ways once more due to resurfacing tensions.

Mounfield’s death comes shortly after he announced an upcoming “in-conversation” tour across the UK, planned for next year, where he would share memories and stories from his years with The Stone Roses and Primal Scream.