Mark your calendars! An all-star tribute gig titled **’Manichester’** will celebrate the life and music of the legendary Gary “Mani” Mounfield, a pivotal figure in the Madchester music scene. This heartfelt event is set to take place in Manchester on **Saturday, May 30**, at the vibrant **Diecast** venue, which boasts a 5,000-capacity. This gathering is not just a concert; it’s a tribute, a celebration, and a testament to a friend lost too soon.
Gary Mounfield, best known as Mani, was widely celebrated for his roles in both **The Stone Roses** and **Primal Scream**. He sadly passed away from respiratory issues in November at the age of 63, leaving behind a legacy filled with infectious basslines and memorable tunes. The outpouring of love during his funeral at **Manchester Cathedral** was evident, with notable figures from the music world, including **Liam Gallagher**, **Paul Weller**, and **Ian Brown**, coming together to pay their respects.
This tribute gig is organized by **Damon Minchella**, former bassist of **Ocean Colour Scene**, who will also perform. He expressed the immense impact Mani had even in his absence, recalling a powerful moment in São Paulo where he played a combination of basslines that sent the crowd into a frenzy. “That’s the power and legacy of Mani,” he remarked, highlighting the musician’s enduring influence on fans and fellow artists alike.
Fans can look forward to a stellar lineup, featuring not only Minchella but also talented artists such as **Cast** and **Peter Hook and The Kowloons**. A specially assembled band, which includes Mani’s close collaborators like **Aziz Ibrahim** from The Stone Roses and **Rowetta** from the **Happy Mondays**, is set to perform. The lineup also features renowned musicians like **Simone Butler** from Primal Scream, **Mick Rossi** from **Slaughter and the Dogs**, **Dave McCabe** from **The Zutons**, and **Baz Fratelli** from **The Fratellis**. It’s a gathering of musical giants who all share the common bond of admiration for Mani.
In the spirit of camaraderie and remembrance, it’s thrilling to have such a varied roster of artists under one roof, paying homage to a fellow musician who made indelible marks on the industry.
The event has partnered with **Madchester.com** and fashion label **GIOGOI**, ensuring that Mani’s family fully supports the initiative. His younger brother, **Greg**, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the excitement surrounding the tribute. “With the names already involved, and more to come, I know he’d have been absolutely buzzing about it,” he shared, pointing to the joyful spirit Mani always embodied.
Beyond the festivities, the gig aims to raise funds for Mani’s twin sons, **Gene** and **George**, who are just 12 years old. This philanthropic angle adds an emotional depth to the night, reminding everyone that the legacy of a great artist lives on through their loved ones.
Alongside this concert, there are also plans for a crowdfunded mural to honor Mani in **Failsworth**, the suburb where he grew up. This permanent tribute will serve as a lasting reminder of an icon who played a fundamental role in shaping the sound of a generation.
Tickets for the ‘Manichester’ gig will go on sale on **Friday, March 27**. With such an impressive lineup and a cause that resonates deeply with both fans and friends of Mani, this event is poised to be an unforgettable night of celebration and music.
For those wishing to secure a spot at this noteworthy tribute, you can purchase tickets from [Madchester.com](https://www.madchester.com). Don’t miss out on this opportunity to celebrate the legacy of Gary “Mani” Mounfield, a true icon of the Manchester music scene.
