The Stone Roses

The Stone Roses

Company type	Private
Industry	Music
Founded	1983 in Manchester, England
Headquarters	Manchester , England
Products	Music albums, singles

The Stone Roses emerged as an English rock ensemble originating from Manchester in 1983 and became pivotal figures in the Madchester scene during the late 1980s and early 1990s. The definitive lineup consisted of lead vocalist Ian Brown, guitarist John Squire, bassist Gary "Mani" Mounfield, and drummer Alan "Reni" Wren.

Their self-titled first album, released in 1989, marked a significant breakthrough, earning critical acclaim and being hailed as one of the finest British records. Following this success, they aimed to leverage their momentum by signing with a major label but were contractually bound to Silvertone Records. This situation resulted in an extended legal dispute before they eventually signed with Geffen Records in 1991.

The band's sophomore effort, Second Coming (1994), met with mixed critical reception. Subsequent lineup changes during the supporting tour led to drummer Reni's departure in early 1995 and guitarist Squire's exit in April 1996. After their performance at the Reading Festival in October 1996, Brown and Mani officially disbanded the group.

After prolonged speculation, the Stone Roses announced their reunion on 18 October 2011 and embarked on a global tour throughout 2012, which featured three significant homecoming concerts at Heaton Park in Manchester. Although there were intentions for a third studio album, only two singles were released. By mid-2012, reports suggested that the band had recorded several new tracks. In June 2013, Shane Meadows directed a documentary chronicling their reunion titled The Stone Roses: Made of Stone.

In 2016, the band released new material for the first time in twenty years and continued touring until June 2017. Comments made by Brown at that time hinted at another dissolution, which was later confirmed by Squire during a 2019 interview.

Formation (1983–1984)

Ian Brown initially played bass and guitarist John Squire met while attending Altrincham Grammar School for Boys. Together with Andy Couzens and drummer Simon Wolstencroft, they formed a Clash-inspired band called The Patrol in 1980. They performed live shows and recorded a demo tape but shifted their musical direction by year's end. Brown briefly took on lead vocals while Pete Garner replaced him on bass as Couzens moved to guitar duties.

By 1981, interest faded; Brown sold his bass to purchase a scooter, while Wolstencroft joined Freak Party, a precursor to The Smiths. Meanwhile, Squire continued guitar practice alongside his animation work, and Brown managed a Northern soul club night in Salford.

Squire and Couzens then established the Fireside Chaps with bassist Gary "Mani" Mounfield, vocalist David "Kaiser" Carty, and drummer Chris Goodwin. Renamed as the Waterfront, their sound drew inspiration from 1960s bands and groups like Orange Juice. After Goodwin's departure, Squire invited Brown to join as vocalist upon encouragement from Geno Washington. Brown joined late in 1983, initially sharing vocal duties with Kaiser.

Following the Waterfront's dissolution, Couzens approached Brown about forming a new band toward the end of 1983. They recruited Wolstencroft—who had declined joining The Smiths—as drummer and Pete Garner on bass despite his limited experience. Squire joined soon after, completing the group's lineup. Brown undertook singing lessons to enhance his vocal abilities. After six months of rehearsals without settling on a name, Squire suggested "The Stone Roses," dismissing rumors linking it to "English Rose" or The Rolling Stones. Wolstencroft left to join the Colourfield, briefly returned for auditions before Alan "Reni" Wren became drummer in May 1984.

Their initial demo was recorded in August 1984 with 100 cassette copies featuring artwork by Squire. The Stone Roses debuted live on 23 October 1984 supporting Pete Townshend at an anti-heroin event in London after Brown sent a demo accompanied by a letter requesting a gig. This performance attracted journalists including Garry Johnson from Sounds, leading to interviews and management offers.

Howard "Ginger" Jones—former director of the Haçienda—producer Martin Hannett, and Tim Chambers agreed to collaborate on an album project under Thin Line Records. Jones managed the band alongside Caroline Reed based in London. Positive media coverage followed through late 1984 into early 1985 with Johnson forecasting their success in Sounds magazine.

Early tour and releases (1985–1988)

The Stone Roses headlined their first show on 4 January 1985 with support from Last Party after Mercenary Skank withdrew. They began initial sessions with producer Martin Hannett at Strawberry Studios in Stockport aiming for debut single and album recordings. Further sessions in March yielded their first double A-side single "So Young"/"Tell Me". Their track "I Wanna Be Adored" premiered during a live session on Piccadilly Radio. Early performances included a London gig at Dingwalls, organized by Tony Michaelides, and their first Northern England show in Preston which ended tumultuously due to technical difficulties and crowd tensions.

In April they toured Sweden before returning to Manchester for a set at International 1—a venue operated by future managers Matthew Cummins and Gareth Evans. A July warehouse party increased their profile further; August saw recording of an initial album later shelved due to dissatisfaction with its sound (eventually released as Garage Flower). The single "So Young"/"Tell Me" was issued via Thin Line Records in September.

To gain wider attention, the band initiated a graffiti campaign which boosted notoriety despite adverse press coverage. In 1986 they developed new songs including "Sally Cinnamon," shelving earlier planned singles such as "I Wanna Be Adored" and "This Is the One." They parted ways with manager Jones appointing Gareth Evans instead while rehearsing at International 1. UK tour dates featured an August Liverpool show attended by record label representatives.

Songwriting collaboration between Brown and Squire caused internal disputes over royalties resulting in temporary departures of Andy Couzens and Reni. Couzens was ultimately dismissed following an unsuccessful gig. The band's musical direction shifted towards influences like the Jesus & Mary Chain and Primal Scream, abandoning earlier material.

By December 1986 they recorded a four-piece demo including "Sugar Spun Sister" and "Elephant Stone". Early in 1987 they signed with Black/FM Revolver releasing "Sally Cinnamon," which showcased a more melodic style; its initial pressing of 1,000 copies sold out though it achieved limited commercial success.

Bassist Pete Garner announced his exit in June but remained until replaced briefly by Rob Hampson before Mani joined from Waterfront. Mani’s arrival enhanced the band's rhythm section significantly.

Performances at Dingwalls during early 1988 attracted interest from Zomba and Rough Trade Records. Rough Trade financed studio time for "Elephant Stone" produced by Peter Hook, who was unavailable for full album production; John Leckie was later suggested as producer. A May concert at Manchester’s International 2 alongside James created local buzz; the band strategically claimed headliner status influencing future acts such as Liam and Noel Gallagher.

Zomba’s A&R executive Roddy McKenna signed them to Silvertone Records under Andrew Lauder with an eight-album contract. The band acquired rights to "Elephant Stone" from Rough Trade releasing it as a single in October 1988.

Co-management was handled by Matthew Cummins until his passing in 2007; early DJ support came from Dave Booth at warehouse events.

Debut album and breakthrough success (1989–1991)

Main article: The Stone Roses (album)

Between late 1988 and early 1989, recording sessions took place at Battery Studios, Konk Studios (London), and Rockfield Studios (Wales), with production led by John Leckie. The initial Silvertone single "Elephant Stone" had minimal impact; early gigs outside northwest England attracted small crowds. The follow-up single "Made of Stone" gained more media attention including Radio One airplay but peaked only at number ninety on UK charts. Their debut album The Stone Roses was released around April/May 1989 receiving predominantly positive reviews; it entered UK Albums Chart at number thirty-two—the highest position during that year. The subsequent single "She Bangs the Drums" reached both UK top forty and topped the UK Independent Chart increasing national media exposure and ticket sales.

A notable moment occurred during a BBC TV performance when power failure caused frontman Ian Brown to call the host “Amateurs!” Later that year the double A-side single "Fools Gold"/"What the World Is Waiting For" climbed to number eight on UK Singles Chart; originally intended as B-sides, "Fools Gold" evolved into their signature track reinforced by an appearance on Top of the Pops. The album climbed to number nineteen early next year.

Significant headline concerts included an August show drawing approximately four thousand attendees at Blackpool’s Empress Ballroom—released as live video in 1991—and November’s Alexandra Palace gig attracting seven thousand fans. In 1989 they won four NME Readers poll awards: Band of the Year, Best New Band, Single of the Year ("Fools Gold"), and Album of the Year (debut). Despite acclaim, members expressed dissatisfaction with its production; Squire described it as “twee” lacking sufficient weight or grit while Brown asserted late that year they were “the most important group worldwide,” confident about future potential.

In early 1990 tensions escalated with Silvertone over unauthorized release of “Sally Cinnamon” leading to an infamous paint attack on Revolver Records’ office by band members causing substantial damage resulting in legal charges amounting between £15,000–20,000 damages. Label founder Paul Birch acknowledged this incident generated media publicity valued over £250,000; members of Black Sabbath including Geezer Butler praised their rebellious act.

Their outdoor concert at Spike Island in May 1990 drew roughly twenty-seven thousand attendees featuring diverse support acts such as DJs Dave Haslam and Paul Oakenfold. Initially criticized for organizational flaws including sound quality issues, it later attained legendary status emblematic of baggy music culture; footage appeared online circa 2010.

By July that year “One Love,” their final Silvertone single reached number four—their highest UK chart position—and marked last original release for four years due to ongoing legal battles seeking release from Silvertone contract over financial disputes. Zomba obtained injunctions preventing recording elsewhere but May 1991 court ruling freed them enabling signing with Geffen Records receiving million-pound advance commencing work on second album; however Silvertone appealed delaying release further.

Second Coming era and dissolution (1992–1996)

After resolving legal matters, the band distanced themselves from Manchester’s club scene spending much of 1992–93 traveling Europe before starting second album mid-1993. Progress slowed due to personal circumstances including fatherhood for Brown and Squire alongside bereavements. Producer John Leckie departed after refusal to sign production contract; subsequently self-produced sessions occurred with engineer Simon Dawson at Rockfield Studios dedicating extensive time totaling approximately three hundred forty-seven ten-hour days.

Second Coming launched on 5 December 1994 predominantly featuring compositions by John Squire emphasizing heavier blues-rock guitar work style. Lead single "Love Spreads" peaked at number two UK Singles Chart but overall critical response was mixed noting detachment from earlier cultural relevance.

In March 1995 drummer Reni exited following conflict with Ian Brown two weeks prior to scheduled tour; Robbie Maddix formerly associated with Rebel MC replaced him while session keyboardist/programmer Nigel Ipinson joined live lineup. Planned UK comeback tour April was canceled after press leaks; Glastonbury Festival appearance withdrawn due to Squire suffering broken collarbone mountain biking injury but full UK tour late that year sold out quickly.

On April Fools’ Day (1 April) 1996 John Squire left citing growing personal differences musically/socially; guitarist Aziz Ibrahim—ex-Simply Red touring member and Burnage High School peer of Pete Garner—was recruited as replacement. Despite continuing six months thereafter live performances declined markedly; Brown’s vocals notably criticized for being off-key during Benicassim and Reading festivals appearances while press uniformly issued negative reviews including harsh critique from NME over rendition of “I Am the Resurrection.” Official disbandment declared by Brown and Mani October that year.

Post-breakup activities (1997–2010)

Following dissolution Ian Brown, John Squire, and Mani each pursued successful solo careers: Squire formed the Seahorses, releasing one album before disbanding followed by two solo efforts; he announced retirement from music in 2007 focusing on painting instead. Brown released seven solo albums plus greatest hits compilation achieving multiple UK top-five chart positions while Mani joined Primal Scream as bassist starting in ’96 until reunion occurred.

Reni remained largely inactive post-breakup briefly forming The Rub circa ’99 performing some shows but no further activity documented; he mentioned collaborating on new material with Mani during interviews around ’05.

Reunion rumors circulated intermittently though repeatedly denied until eventual confirmation; twentieth anniversary edition of debut album issued August 2009 featuring remastering alongside collector’s box set plus previously unreleased track “Pearl Bastard.”

Reunion period, new releases & final breakup (2011–2017)

After press speculation surfaced October 2011 band confirmed reunion launching extensive world tour beginning with warm-up show Warrington including three homecoming concerts Heaton Park Manchester plus Dublin’s Phoenix Park appearance announcing plans for third album release imminently anticipated; tickets sold out rapidly prompting additional date added.

First leg comprised warm-up gigs Barcelona followed by European shows; December saw Ian Brown join John Squire performing together live first time since ’95 benefit event.

Official public reunion concert held on 23 May 2012 Parr Hall Warrington offering free entry fans bringing Roses merchandise also performing major festivals Isle of Wight (June ’13), Coachella (April ’13), Finsbury Park London & Glasgow Green among others.

Documentary film titled The Stone Roses: Made of Stone, directed by Shane Meadows premiered Manchester May ’13 simultaneously screened across UK cinemas.

November ’15 announcement detailed stadium concerts Manchester City of Manchester Stadium June ’16 plus headlining T in the Park festival appearance releasing “[All for One (The Stone Roses song)|All for One]” May ’16—their first new single over two decades—and “[Beautiful Thing (The Stone Roses song)|Beautiful Thing]” June same year.

September ’16 revealed three UK stadium shows summer ’17: SSE Arena Belfast, Wembley Stadium London & Hampden Park Glasgow supplemented later by two Leeds First Direct Arena dates.

During final Hampden Park show June ’17 Ian Brown implied it might be last performance confirmed subsequently when John Squire announced disbandment during interview conducted ’19.

Original bassist Pete Garner passed away November ’23 aged fifty-nine while renowned bassist Gary “Mani” Mounfield died on November twenty-fifth ’25 aged sixty-three.

Musical style & influences

The Stone Roses incorporated varied styles spanning garage rock, electronic dance music genres such as acid house/krautrock influences alongside northern soul rhythms plus elements drawn from punk rock/reggae/soul traditions inspired by artists like the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Simon & Garfunkel, the Smiths, The Byrds, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, The Jesus & Mary Chain, Sex Pistols & The Clash among others.

They were seminal figures within Madchester scene blending alternative rock/psychedelic rock textures fused with electronic dance beats contributing substantially to late-’80s/early-’90s British music landscape influencing bands like Oasis & The Verve notably Noel Gallagher credited “Sally Cinnamon” as pivotal inspiration while Liam Gallagher cited them as his first live concert experience sparking singing ambitions photographer Kevin Cummins’ iconic NME cover photo ‘89 praised widely by Liam Gallagher & Richard Ashcroft representing generation-defining imagery.

Strong affiliation exists between band & Premier League football club Manchester United where three founding members are supporters while track “This is the One” has been played before home matches Old Trafford since early millennium; partnership formed in ‘24 collaborating with club & Adidas launching apparel line incorporating band iconography.

Media relations

John Robb observed that their media approach involved deflecting journalists through shy laughter, brief comments or silence combined occasionally with insightful remarks from Ian Brown maintaining consistent presence within rock press despite limited engagement demonstrating savvy media management skills keeping public profile active without oversharing.

Core lineup

• Ian Brown – lead vocals, percussion instruments including harmonica (1983–1996, 2011–2017)
• John Squire – lead guitar duties plus backing vocals (1983–1996, 2011–2017)
• Reni (Alan Wren) – drums/percussion/backing vocals occasionally piano (1984–1995,2011–2017)
• Mani (Gary Mounfield) – bass guitar (1987–1996,2011–2017; deceased2025), acoustic guitar live only (1995)

Additional members

• Pete Garner – bass guitar (1983–1987; deceased2023)
• Andy Couzens – rhythm guitar/backing vocals (1983–1986)
• Simon Wolstencroft – drums (1983–1984)
• Rob Hampson – bass guitar (1987)
• Cressa (Stephen Cresser) – dancer (1988–1990)
• Robbie Maddix – drums/percussion/backing vocals (1995–1996)
• Nigel Ipinson – keyboards/backing vocals (1995–1996)
• Aziz Ibrahim – lead guitar (1996)

Timeline

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Colors =

id:voc value:red legend:Vocals
id:bv value:pink legend:Backing_vocals
id:lg value:teal legend:Lead_guitar
id:rg value:brightgreen legend:Rhythm_guitar
id:key value:purple legend:Keyboards
id:b value:blue legend:Bass
id:dr value:orange legend:Drums
id:p value:claret legend:Percussion
id:d value:yellow legend:Dancing
id:alb value:black legend:Album_release

LineData =

at:01/04/1989 layer:back
at:05/12/1994 layer:back

PlotData =

width:11 textcolor:pink align:left anchor:from shift:(10,-4)
bar:Ian Brown from:start till:01/10/1996 color:voc
bar:Ian Brown from:18/10/2011 till:end color:voc
bar:Ian Brown from:start till:01/10/1996 color:p width:3
bar:Ian Brown from:18/10/2011 till:end color:p width:3
bar:John Squire from:start till:01/04/1996 color:lg
bar:John Squire from:01/06/1986 till:01/04/1996 color:rg width:7
bar:John Squire from:18/10/2011 till:end color:lg
bar:John Squire from:18/10/2011 till:end color:rg width:7
bar:John Squire from:start till:01/04/1996 color:bv width:3
bar:John Squire from:18/10/2011 till:end color:bv width:3
bar:Aziz Ibrahim from:01/04/1996 till:01/10/1996 color:lg
bar:Aziz Ibrahim from:01/04/1996 till:01/10/1996 color:rg width:3
bar:Andy Couzens from:start till:01/06/1986 color:rg
bar:Andy Couzens from:start till:01/06/1986 color:bv width:3
bar:Nigel Ipinson from:01/04/1995 till:01/10/1996 color:key
bar:Nigel Ipinson from:01/04/1995 till:01/10/1996 color:bv width:3
bar:Pete Garner from:start till:01/07/1987 color:b
bar:Rob Hampson from:01/07/1987 till:01/11/1987 color:b
bar:Manni (Gary Mounfield) from=01/11/1987 till:end color:b
bar:Reni (Alan Wren) from:start till:end color:d width:none

</timeline>

Discography

• The Stone Roses (1989)
• Second Coming (1994)

Works cited

• Haslam, Dave (2000) Manchester, England, Fourth Estate ISBN 1-84115-146-7
• McCready, John. "So Near So Far". MOJO, May 2002
• Reynolds, Simon. "The Stone Roses:The Morning After". Spin, May 1995
• Robb, John (2001) The Stone Roses and the Resurrection of British Pop, Random House ISBN 0-09-187887-X
• Strong,M.C.(2003) The Great Indie Discography, Canongate ISBN 1-84195-335-0
• Taylor,S.(2004) The A to X of Alternative Music, Continuum ISBN 0-8264-7396-2
• New Musical Express(15 April 2009). “The Stone Roses:The twentieth anniversary edition of arguably greatest debut album”

External links

• Conversation with Ian Brown discussing the Stone Roses' legacy