Gary "Mani" Mounfield, the renowned bassist for the iconic Manchester bands the Stone Roses and Primal Scream, has passed away at the age of 63. The tragic news was shared by his brother Greg on Thursday via Facebook: “IT IS WITH THE HEAVIEST OF HEARTS THAT I HAVE TO ANNOUNCE THE SAD PASSING OF MY BROTHER GARY MANI MOUNFIELD.”

The cause of death has not been disclosed, but the Manchester Evening News reported that paramedics were called to a property believed to be Mounfield’s home on Thursday morning. No one was transported to the hospital. Prior to his death, Mani had been planning to tour, indicating that he had been in the midst of preparing for a new chapter in his musical journey.

In his final Instagram post on November 13, Mani shared a reflective message, hinting at his possible final road trip: “I think I’m embarking on what could be my final road trip … Getting too old now. Anyway, there’s a lot to go at … Anybody wanting to hear slaggings off of bandmates … or titbits of dirt, conjecture & gossip … I’m not that guy.” He concluded the post by saying, “I will be giving my skewed vision of my own life, I never did, and would never rat on my comrades … hope you come out and say hello.”

Gary Mounfield of the Stone Roses at the V Festival in Weston Park, England, Aug. 19, 2012.

The Stone Roses posed in a London studio in July 1990: Reni, Mani, Ian Brown, John Squire.Redferns

Following the news of his passing, tributes have poured in from his fellow musicians. Ian Brown, frontman of the Stone Roses, expressed his sorrow on X, writing, "REST IN PEACE MANi X." The band’s official account posted, “RIP our wonderful brother Mani. The greatest bass player and friend we could ever have wished for.”

English musician Gary Mounfield in Manchester in 2014.Getty Images

Liam Gallagher, lead singer of Oasis, also shared a heartfelt tribute: “In total shock and absolutely devastated on hearing the news about Mani. My hero, RIP R Kid.” Singer Lily Allen posted a photo of Mani on her Instagram story, accompanied by a heart emoji. Liam Fray, frontman of the Courteeners, expressed his grief on Instagram, writing: “Absolutely devastated to hear the news about Mani. This is what true sadness feels like. Everyone who knew you will miss you so much. Thank you for the good times, every one of them was a privilege. Thinking of all your family and friends. Rest in Peace Brother.”

Gary Mounfield performing onstage at Wembley Stadium on June 17, 2017.NurPhoto via Getty Images

Mani of the Stone Roses during a rehearsal in Manchester in 1994.Getty Images

Born in 1962 in Crumpsall, England, Mani co-founded the Stone Roses in the early 1980s with John Squire and Andy Couzens. Ian Brown later joined, and the band changed their name to the Stone Roses. Their self-titled debut album was released in 1989 and included hits like "Love Spreads," "This Is The One," and "Fools Gold." The band’s influence on the Manchester music scene and their blend of rock and psychedelia left an indelible mark on British music.

After the Stone Roses’ initial breakup in 1996, Mani went on to join Primal Scream, contributing to albums like Vanishing Point (1997), Evil Heat (2002), and Beautiful Future (2008). The Stone Roses reunited in 2011 for a world tour, and they released two new singles in 2016 before disbanding once again in 2017.

John Squire, Mani, Ian Brown and Reni of the Stone Roses in 2011.Getty Images

Gary Mounfield attends the launch of Esquire Magazine’s June issue in 2011 in London.Getty Images

Mani Mounfield performing with Primal Scream in June 2006 at the Isle of Wight Festival in Britain.

The Manchester rock band New Order shared their condolences on X: “We are really sorry and shocked to hear of the passing of Mani. He was a great guy, good fun and a father to two boys. Long may he live in the hearts and minds of all his family, friends and fans.” ART for MCR, a Manchester-based organization that raises money for charity through music events, also posted a tribute: “Unreal this. Absolutely numbed us. We’re gutted to hear of the passing of Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield — a true giant of this city and a massive influence on anyone who’s ever picked up a guitar or stepped on a stage round here.”

Mounfield is survived by his 12-year-old twin sons, whom he shared with his wife, Imelda, who tragically passed away from cancer in November 2023. The music world has lost a true legend, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans.