Mani’s family say “misunderstanding” over Manchester tribute gig has "been resolved”

1 April 2026, 17:08

Mani of The Stone Roses rehearsing Manchester in 1994. Picture: Goodacre/Getty Images

By Jenny Mensah

The family of the late Stone Roses bassist have cleared up a "misunderstanding about the event," dubbed "Manichester," which will see performances from Peter Hook, CAST, Zak Starkey and more.

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The family of Gary "Mani" Mounfield have set the record straight about an upcoming tribute gig to honour the musician.

The former Stone Roses and Primal Scream bassist died in his sleep on 20th November, aged 63, due to respiratory issues caused by long-standing emphysema.

Last month it was announced that he would be honoured in a special special event titled "Manichester" at the 5,000-capacity venue Diecast," which is set to celebrate his "life and legacy" on 30th May 2026.

IT was previously believed that the show - which was organised in association with Madchester.com and fashion label GIOGOI - had the blessing of Mani’s family, including his brother Greg and would raise funds for the bassist’s teenage twin sons, Gene and George.

However, recently Gene took to social media to claim that “nothing’s going to me and my brother”, adding: “If it was a charity gig it would be at Co-op [Live] or Heaton Park and it would be done by [promoters] SJM.”

He added that the news was "dropped" on them "two weeks ago," adding: "I’m Mani’s kid, everything’s going to my crackhead uncle and not us. The gig’s a lie, and it’s just taking people’s money.”

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However, an official update was shared today (1st April) to clarify the situation around the event.

It began: “On behalf of the boys, and as their legal guardian, I want to thank everyone for the kind messages and concern for their wellbeing. There was a misunderstanding regarding the upcoming Manichester tribute concert, but we’re pleased to share that everything has now been resolved."

The statement continued: “We would also like to express our gratitude to PH. It means a great deal to all of us that so many people loved Mani enough to give their time and energy to honour his memory in this way. We are genuinely touched by the support.

“It has been an incredibly difficult few years for the boys and for our whole family. We hope this event will bring some much‑needed joy and create new, positive memories for everyone who cared about him. With love and thanks, - The Family.”

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The statement was greeted with praise from fans and followers alike and was also shared by artists who will be taking part in the show, including Mani's friend and former Happy Mondays singer Rowetta, who wrote: "Thank you".

Meanwhile, an up to date line-up poster has been shared of the gig, which adds Tom Meighan to the likes of CAST, Peter Hook, Damon Michella from Ocean Colour Scene, Mantra of the Cosmos and former Who drummer Zak Starkey, The Zutons' Dave McCabe and many more.

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Rumours and speculation surrounding who will play at the top of the bill have begun to circulate, with reports suggesting Oasis brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher will be at the event, but according to Manchester Evening News the "AAA Headliner" will not be announced until 23rd May.

A specially assembled band featuring musicians closely connected to Mani’s career will include Stone Roses guitarist Aziz Ibrahim, Rowetta and former Primal Scream bassist Simone Butler, as well as Mick Rossi from Slaughter and the Dogs.

Stone Roses guitarist John Squire has designed the flyer artwork for the event, inspired by his iconic visual style, which will also feature across promotional materials and limited-edition physical tickets.

Tickets for the gig are now sold out.

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