The music world is in mourning following the death of Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, the revered bassist for iconic bands The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, who passed away at the age of 63 on Thursday. A proud Mancunian, Mani's life and career were intrinsically linked to his beloved city, Manchester, which shaped his musical journey and personal ethos. Tributes have poured in from across the music industry, highlighting his indelible impact.

Born in Crumpsall, Manchester, in 1962, into a family with Irish heritage, Mani's father, a respected chef, nurtured his son's love for music and Manchester United. His passion for music truly ignited during his teenage years at Xaverian College in Rusholme, a Roman Catholic institution, where he was introduced to the burgeoning punk rock scene. These sounds were instrumental in shaping his future career and distinctive guitar style. After leaving college at 16, Mani became deeply immersed in Manchester's vibrant club, music, and band scene, frequently attending legendary venues like the Hacienda.

Mani's early musical endeavors included joining a band called The Fireside Chaps alongside John Squire, which later evolved into The Waterfront. Following the split of The Waterfront, he collaborated with Clint Boon, who would go on to form the Inspiral Carpets. His career took a pivotal turn in June 1987 when he replaced Pete Garner in The Stone Roses, a moment that would etch his name into music history.

As part of The Stone Roses' classic lineup, alongside singer Ian Brown, guitarist John Squire, and drummer Alan 'Reni' Wren, Mani's prowling basslines were a defining feature of their seminal 1989 self-titled debut album. This iconic record spawned hits such as 'I Wanna Be Adored,' 'She Bangs The Drums,' and 'I Am The Resurrection.' He also contributed to their harder-rocking 1994 follow-up, 'Second Coming.'

After The Stone Roses disbanded in 1996, Mani embarked on a significant 15-year stint with Primal Scream. His tenure with Bobby Gillespie and co. lasted until 2011, when he announced his departure to rejoin The Stone Roses. The band famously reformed for a series of live gigs in 2016 and 2017, a reunion reportedly brokered, in part, during discussions between the members at the funeral of Mani's mother.

Beyond his musical prowess, Mani was known for his ever-present huge smile and deep connection to Manchester. He was a regular supporter of local events in the Northern Quarter and frequently DJ'd at clubs and bars across the city. His compassionate nature extended to passionate support for charities, including raising money for cancer care and The Christie in Manchester, following the heartbreaking death of his wife, Imelda, from cancer at the age of 52. His passing comes almost two years to the day of Imelda's death, leaving behind their twin sons, Gene and George, aged 12.

The announcement of Mani's death on Thursday afternoon triggered an outpouring of grief and remembrance. Stone Roses frontman Ian Brown posted a heartfelt 'rest in peace Mani' with a kiss on X. Tim Burgess, lead singer of The Charlatans, fondly recalled that Mani 'never failed to bring a smile to my face.' Oasis legends also joined the chorus of tributes; Noel Gallagher shared a picture of his long-time friend, writing, 'RIP Brother. It was a pleasure to have known you.' His brother, Liam Gallagher, expressed his devastation, tweeting, 'In total shock and absolutely devastated on hearing the news about Mani, MY HERO, RIPD RKID LG.' Liam and Mani were last photographed together at the funeral of boxer Ricky Hatton in October. Paul 'Bonehead' Arthurs, another Oasis bandmate, also paid his respects with 'RIP Mani. x.' Furthermore, Campbell Hatton, son of the late boxer Ricky Hatton, offered a poignant tribute on Instagram, stating, 'Another great bloke lost. Somebody I’ve looked up to since I’ve even known what music is and been lucky enough to spend time with. To many goodens lost these days. RIP Mani.'