Johnny Marr on how Noel Gallagher called him to tell him Mani had died, and how it shaped his album

The recent passing of Gary “Mani” Mounfield profoundly affected many in the British music scene, including Johnny Marr, former guitarist of The Smiths. Mani, a revered bassist best known for his work with The Stone Roses, died on November 20 at age 63 from respiratory complications linked to emphysema. His death prompted widespread tributes from musicians and fans alike, highlighting his lasting influence across decades.

Mani’s career began with The Stone Roses in 1987, contributing to their seminal albums before the band’s initial split in 1996. He later joined Primal Scream, remaining a key figure until 2011, when the Stone Roses reunited. His passing marked the end of an era for Manchester’s music community, a city that has produced some of the UK’s most iconic bands.

Johnny Marr recently opened up about how he first learned of Mani’s death. While working on his latest solo project, 'The Age of Everything,' Marr received an unexpected call from fellow Manchester legend Noel Gallagher. Unlike his usual text messages, Gallagher’s direct phone call conveyed the somber news, catching Marr and his band off guard during a recording session.

Faced with this sudden loss, Marr and his band briefly considered halting their work, overwhelmed by the news. However, they ultimately chose to proceed with the session, driven by a sense of respect and determination that Mani would have encouraged them to keep creating. This resolve was reflected in the track “Beyond the Rain,” which Marr was recording at the time.

The impact of Mani’s death resonated through Marr’s approach to the song’s lyrics. Returning the next day to complete the vocals, Marr made subtle but meaningful changes, infusing the track with lines that evoke a connection to northern roots and belonging. Although not explicitly written about Mani, the song carried a deeper emotional weight influenced by the bassist’s memory.

'The Age of Everything,' released on October 2 via BMG, is Marr’s fifth solo album and follows a prolific period that included a 2022 studio record, a 2023 compilation, and a live album in 2025. His recent collaborations also span diverse projects, including contributions to Gorillaz’s album 'The Mountain,' charitable efforts like the 'Help(2)' album for War Child, and performances with the Pet Shop Boys.

Marr has characterized 'The Age of Everything' as a reflection on both the overwhelming nature of contemporary life and a more optimistic cultural perspective influenced by philosophies such as Buddhism and new age thought. The album title hints at a complex interplay between sensory overload and mindful resilience.

His reflections on Mani’s passing and its subtle imprint on his latest work underscore the interconnectedness of Manchester’s musical heritage. The loss of a figure like Mani, who was both a friend and an influential presence, inevitably shapes the creative process of peers like Marr.

While Marr continues to evolve as a solo artist and collaborator, moments like these serve as poignant reminders of the community and history behind his music. Details remain limited regarding any future tributes or projects directly dedicated to Mani’s legacy, but his influence clearly remains alive within the fabric of contemporary British rock.

This chapter in Marr’s career illustrates how personal loss can inform artistic expression, enriching the narrative and emotional depth of new music. As 'The Age of Everything' reaches audiences, it carries with it echoes of a pivotal figure whose contributions helped define a generation of sound.