In a recent LinkedIn post, Kobi Omenaka reflects on the profound impact of Mani, the bassist for The Stone Roses, following news of his passing. Omenaka shares personal memories and analyzes the bassist’s significant contribution to British music, framing it as a loss for Manchester and the wider music scene.
Omenaka’s post begins by recounting his experiences seeing Mani perform, first with Primal Scream and then with The Stone Roses. He vividly recalls a specific Stone Roses gig at Heaton Park, Manchester, on July 1, 2012, which he describes as a monumental event for the 75,000 attendees and a personally significant moment.
“This picture of Mani is mine from that Heaton Park Stone Roses gig. One of my final shots, taken during my last time side hustling as a gig photographer.”
This personal anecdote sets the stage for Omenaka’s deeper reflection on Mani’s role within the iconic Madchester band.
Mani: The Heartbeat of The Stone Roses
As Kobi Omenaka highlights, Mani was far more than just a musician; he was the rhythmic anchor that gave The Stone Roses their distinctive sound. Omenaka argues that Mani’s basslines were integral to the band’s most celebrated tracks, providing the essential groove that elevated their music.
“Mani wasn’t just a bass player. He was the heartbeat of The Stone Roses, the groove that made ‘I Am The Resurrection’ transcend, the foundation beneath Ian Brown’s swagger and John Squire’s genius.”
According to Omenaka, Mani’s talent was not confined to one band. He points out Mani’s successful tenure with Primal Scream after The Stone Roses initially disbanded, demonstrating a consistent brilliance across different musical contexts.
A Rare and Enduring Brilliance
Omenaka emphasizes the rarity of such sustained musical impact. He notes that Mani’s ability to deliver the same magic with different groups speaks to a deep-seated talent that resonated with audiences on a visceral level.
“Different band, same magic. That’s rare.”
In Omenaka’s view, watching Mani perform offered a glimpse into something profound, suggesting that the bassist represented more than technical proficiency. He was, in essence, the unifying element that made the music deeply moving.
A Legacy That Thunders On
Concluding his tribute, Kobi Omenaka frames Mani’s passing as a significant loss for Manchester and British music. He acknowledges the silence left by his absence but asserts that the impact of his work will endure.
“The groove quietens, but the legacy thunders on. Rest in power, Mani. You made us believe in resurrection.”
Omenaka’s reflections serve as a poignant reminder of Mani’s indelible mark on music history, celebrating the enduring power of his groove and artistry.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Kobi Omenaka on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on November 21, 2025 | View original post on LinkedIn →