UPDATE: Just days after the shocking death of renowned bassist Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield, his brother Greg Mounfield has shared an emotional tribute on social media. Mani, a beloved member of The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, passed away at the age of 63 on November 20, 2023.
Greg announced the tragic news on Facebook, stating, “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce the sad passing of my brother Gary Mani Mounfield. RIP RKID.” He later added, “Reunited with his beautiful wife Imelda,” underscoring the deep personal loss felt by the family.
This news comes nearly two years after the death of Mani’s wife, Imelda, who succumbed to bowel cancer in early 2023. The timing of these losses has left the family in deep mourning, particularly for Mani’s sons, who now face life without both parents.
In a poignant update shared on November 22, Greg posted a heartfelt family photo, thanking fans for their outpouring of love and tributes. “On behalf of myself and all my family Mounfield/McGill, I would like to say a massive thanks for all the messages and tributes to RKid. RIP Gaz,” he wrote, capturing the essence of familial love amidst tragedy.
Tributes have flooded in from the music community. Mani’s stepbrother, John Barlow, expressed his devastation, sharing a childhood photo of the brothers and lamenting the loss of both Mani and Imelda. He stated, “Having recently lost his wife Imelda, it now leaves the two boys without a mum or dad. My thoughts are with his brother Greg and the boys, absolutely tragic.”
Mani’s impact on music is undeniable. Hailing from Crumpsall, Manchester, he rose to fame in the late 1980s as part of The Stone Roses, contributing to their iconic albums. After the band’s split in 1996, he joined Primal Scream but eventually returned to The Stone Roses in 2011, further solidifying his legacy as a music legend.
Since the announcement of his passing, numerous musicians and fans have shared their condolences. Lead singer of The Stone Roses, Ian Brown, simply wrote, “REST IN PEACE MANi X,” while the band released a heartfelt message stating, “RIP our wonderful brother Mani. The greatest bass player and friend we could ever have wished for.”
The loss of Mani resonates deeply within the music community, highlighting the profound emotional connections forged through art and life. As fans and family continue to mourn, the legacy of Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield will undoubtedly live on through his music and the memories shared by those who loved him.
As the world reflects on Mani’s contributions, those closest to him are left to navigate their grief. The family encourages continued tributes and memories to honor Mani’s remarkable life and enduring spirit.
