Gary “Mani” Mounfield, the legendary bassist whose grooves defined The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, passed away on November 20, 2025. He was 63 years old. His death, confirmed weeks later as being caused by respiratory complications from emphysema, has drawn an outpouring of grief from the music world and left fans reflecting on the life of a man who remained intensely private despite his public fame.
The musician died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Heaton Moor, Stockport. Paramedics attended the scene but were unable to resuscitate him. His death was first announced publicly by his brother, Greg Mounfield, on Facebook, a statement that noted Mani had been “reunited with his beautiful wife Imelda.”
The confirmation of the cause of death came just days before his funeral, ending weeks of speculation and providing a measure of clarity for a grieving fanbase.
Gary Mounfield Cause of Death and Confirmation
Death Confirmed
Gary “Mani” Mounfield passed away on November 20, 2025, at the age of 63. His death was announced by his brother.
Iconic Bassist
Best known as the bassist for The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, Mani’s playing defined the Madchester sound.
Family Man
Survived by his twin sons, his family life was kept largely private throughout his career.
Cause of Death
His cause of death was confirmed as respiratory complications due to long-standing emphysema.
- Gary “Mani” Mounfield’s death at 63 sent profound shockwaves through the British rock and indie music world.
- His cause of death was officially confirmed by the family as respiratory complications due to emphysema, ending initial uncertainty.
- He leaves behind a legacy of iconic bass lines and a private family life that includes his twin sons, Gene and George.
- Tributes from The Stone Roses, Liam Gallagher, and Shaun Ryder underscore his immense influence on two generations of music.
- He had not been hospitalized prior to his death and had recently announced plans for an intimate UK conversation tour.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gary Mounfield |
| Stage Name | Mani |
| Born | 16 November 1962 |
| Died | 20 November 2025 |
| Age at Death | 63 |
| Nationality | English |
| Occupation | Bassist, Musician, Actor |
| Known For | The Stone Roses, Primal Scream |
| Spouse | Imelda Mounfield (deceased 2023) |
| Children | Twin sons: Gene and George |
| Cause of Death | Respiratory complications due to emphysema |
Gary Mounfield Wife, Children, and Family Life
Imelda Mounfield: A Life Cut Short
Gary Mounfield was married to Imelda Mounfield. She died on November 18, 2023, at the age of 50, after a battle with stage four bowel cancer, which was diagnosed in 2020. Her passing left a profound void in Mani’s life. In announcing his brother’s death, Greg Mounfield poignantly noted that Mani had been “reunited with his beautiful wife Imelda,” adding a layer of tragic symmetry to the story.
His Twin Sons: Gene and George
Mani and Imelda had twin sons, Gene and George, born in January 2013. At the time of their father’s death, the boys were 13 years old. The loss of both parents within two years places them in a deeply challenging situation, and their privacy has been respected by the family and the wider music community.
Brother Greg Mounfield
Greg Mounfield was the first to publicly confirm the news. His heartfelt Facebook post read: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce the sad passing of my brother.” He became the primary spokesperson for the family during the initial days following the tragedy.
Emphysema is a chronic lung condition that damages the air sacs in the lungs, making it progressively harder to breathe. It is a form of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and can lead to severe respiratory failure. In Mani’s case, the official cause of death was listed as respiratory complications directly linked to this underlying condition.
Gary Mounfield Net Worth and Career Legacy
No reliable public figure for Mounfield’s net worth is available in current sources. While The Stone Roses were commercially successful—their debut album sold over 2 million copies in the UK alone—specific financial details about Mounfield’s personal wealth have not been disclosed by his family or estate. Any figures found online remain unverified estimates.
The Stone Roses (1987–1996, 2011–2017)
Born in Crumpsall, Manchester in 1962, Mounfield was a founding member of The Stone Roses. He played on their landmark 1989 debut album, which became a defining record of the Madchester era. After the band initially disbanded in 1996, they reunited in 2011 for historic tours and festival appearances before splitting again in 2017.
Primal Scream (1996–2011)
Following the dissolution of The Stone Roses, Mani joined Primal Scream in 1996, contributing his distinctive bass lines to the band for 15 years. His work with both bands cemented his status as one of the most influential bassists in British rock.
Mani’s career perfectly bridges the “Madchester” scene of The Stone Roses with the experimental rock of Primal Scream. He also appeared as an actor in films such as Kick-Ass (2010) and The Football Factory (2004), showing his versatility beyond music.
Gary Mounfield Funeral and Tributes
A Private Farewell
A private funeral for Gary Mounfield was held on December 22, 2025, at Manchester Cathedral. The service was a family affair, respecting his lifelong preference for privacy away from the stage.
Messages from the Music World
The tributes following his death were immediate and heartfelt. The Stone Roses posted on X (formerly Twitter): “RIP wonderful brother, bass player, friend we ever have for.” Public condolences also came from a wide range of fellow musicians, including Liam Gallagher, Shaun Ryder of Happy Mondays, and singer Rowetta. Their words painted a picture of Mani not just as a brilliant musician, but as a deeply respected and loved individual.
Timeline of a Life in Music
- 1962: Born in Crumpsall, Manchester, England.
- 1980s: Began his music career and joined The Stone Roses.
- 1989: Released the seminal debut album The Stone Roses.
- 1995: Released The Second Coming with The Stone Roses.
- 1996: Joined the band Primal Scream after the initial dissolution of The Stone Roses.
- 2011–2017: Reunited with The Stone Roses for historic tours and festival appearances.
- 20 Nov 2025: Passed away at age 63; cause of death later confirmed as respiratory complications from emphysema.
Certainty and Uncertainty: What We Know
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| Gary Mounfield died on November 20, 2025, at age 63. | No specific details regarding his daily health struggles in the lead-up to his death have been released. |
| His death was caused by respiratory complications due to long-standing emphysema. | Specific financial details regarding his net worth and estate have not been disclosed. |
| He was the bassist for The Stone Roses and Primal Scream. | Full details of any future tribute concerts or memorials have not yet been announced. |
| He was married to Imelda Mounfield and had twin sons, Gene and George. |
The Meaning of a Manchester Icon
Mani was a foundational member of The Stone Roses, whose 1989 debut album did more than just define the “Madchester” movement; it influenced a generation of musicians. After the Roses disbanded, his role in Primal Scream proved his staying power, contributing to their acclaimed later albums. The outpouring of tributes from bandmates and the wider music community highlights not only his unparalleled skill as a bassist but his respected character. His death marks a significant cultural loss for the British indie and rock scenes. Mani’s death came almost exactly two years after his wife Imelda’s passing, leaving his teenage sons without both parents. His legacy remains foundational to Manchester’s rock history and the Britpop era.
Sources and Tributes: The Official Words
“Our wonderful brother.”
The Stone Roses, via social media, as reported by BBC News
“The Stone Roses pay tribute to ‘our wonderful brother’ Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield after his death aged 63.”
BBC News
For a deeper look into another iconic British musician’s life and career, explore the biography of Cat Stevens – From Pop Star to Faith and Back.
Summary of Gary Mounfield’s Life and Passing
Gary “Mani” Mounfield died on November 20, 2025, at age 63 from respiratory complications linked to emphysema. As the celebrated bassist for The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, his musical legacy is secure. He leaves behind his twin sons, Gene and George, and a world of fans mourning the loss of a true Manchester legend. To read about another musician with deep roots in the UK music scene, see the profile of Kelly Jones – Biography, Net Worth, Height, Wife, and Career 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gary Mounfield
What is Gary Mounfield’s real name?
His full name is Gary Mounfield. He is known professionally as Mani.
When was Gary Mounfield born?
He was born on 16 November 1962.
How old was Gary Mounfield when he died?
He was 63 years old.
What bands was Gary Mounfield in?
He was the bassist for The Stone Roses and Primal Scream.
What is Gary Mounfield most famous for?
His iconic bass playing in The Stone Roses, particularly on their 1989 debut album.
What acting roles did Gary Mounfield have?
He appeared in films including Kick-Ass (2010), The Football Factory (2004), and Clouds of Sils Maria (2014).
What was the cause of Gary Mounfield’s death?
The official cause of death was respiratory complications due to emphysema.
Did Gary Mounfield have children?
Yes, he had twin sons named Gene and George with his wife Imelda.
Daniel Mercer is Music & Theatre Correspondent at ShowbizUK.co.uk, covering music, theatre, concerts, West End coverage, festivals, live entertainment and album releases.