The heart of Manchester's music world stood still on Monday as hundreds gathered to pay their respects to Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, the legendary bassist for The Stone Roses and Primal Scream. The charismatic musician, who died at his Stockport home on 20 November aged 63, was celebrated in a poignant service at Manchester Cathedral, attended by a constellation of stars from music, football, and public life.
A Cathedral Filled With Legends
The congregation was a testament to Mani's far-reaching influence and beloved status. Fellow musicians including Liam Gallagher, Paul Weller, Peter Hook, Tim Burgess, and Bez joined football icons David Beckham and Gary Neville inside the cathedral. Outside, fans packed the streets, demonstrating the deep connection the musician had with the city and its people. The Mayor of Manchester, Andy Burnham, was also present to honour the local hero.
Mounfield's coffin, a poignant tribute designed to resemble the cover of The Stone Roses' seminal first album, was carried from the cathedral by his closest friends and former bandmates. The pallbearers were a who's who of British rock: Stone Roses frontman Ian Brown, Primal Scream's Bobby Gillespie and guitarist Andrew Innes, and his original Roses colleagues, guitarist John Squire and drummer Alan 'Reni' Wren. Liam Gallagher also helped bear the coffin, a powerful image of solidarity.
"A True Musical Comrade": Heartfelt Tributes
Ian Brown delivered a moving eulogy, remembering his friend of 45 years as a "true musical comrade" and "always a beautiful soul and spirit." He described Mani as being like a brother, a constant and unconditional support. "One thing we can all agree on is Mani was one of the greatest lads we ever met, one of the greatest men we ever knew. Lucky us," Brown told the packed cathedral.
He painted a picture of a man who lived for joy, calling him a "non-stop laugh machine" whose primary pursuit was finding the next moment of happiness. Brown listed the simple passions that defined his friend's life: his family, his pals, fishing, football, Manchester United, music, Lambrettas, dancing, and clothes. "He lived a full, a fulfilled and a blessed life, going round and round the world lifting people up with his bass guitar skills," Brown said.
The singer noted the "tsunami of love" that had followed Mounfield's passing, stating, "He loved everyone and everyone loves him … he was the life and soul of wherever he was." In a moment that sparked cheers, Brown declared that few had done more for Manchester than Mani and humorously called for a "50ft, solid gold statue" to be erected in his memory.
A Legacy of Funk and Rock 'n' Roll
Primal Scream's Bobby Gillespie also paid tribute, honouring the 27 years Mounfield spent with the band after joining in 1996. He cherished the bassist's unique energy, calling him "a funky little mother, with a rock'n'roll heart." Gillespie praised his stage presence, saying, "He stalked the stage with the stealth of a panther, with the grace of a dancer. How fortunate we were to have him in our band and in our lives." He concluded with the poignant line, "Mani's not dead, he's just gone."
Gillespie also remembered Mani's wife, Imelda, who died two years ago, describing her as his "rock" and the couple as "amazing." The service ultimately balanced profound grief with a celebration of an extraordinary life. As Ian Brown reminded mourners, "Mani wouldn't want us to be broken-hearted. But we all are."
The funeral marked the end for a musician whose influence spanned generations. Mounfield had recently announced a UK speaking tour for 2026-2027, where he planned to reflect on career highlights like the Stone Roses' iconic 1990 Spike Island gig and their 2012 comeback tour. His passing leaves a void in the Manchester music scene, but as the service proved, the spirit of the man known for his laughter, loyalty, and legendary basslines will endure.
