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The Stone Roses

The Stone Roses are an English rock band from Manchester, formed in the early 1980s and associated with the Madchester scene.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Stone Roses are an English rock band from Manchester, formed in the early 1980s and associated with the Madchester scene. They are best known for their 1989 debut album, *The Stone Roses*, and for influencing later British rock bands.

History

The Stone Roses formed in Manchester in 1983 and built a following before releasing their debut album in 1989. They later released *Second Coming* in 1994, disbanded in the 1990s, and reunited for live performances in the 2010s.

Musical style and influence

The band is associated with Madchester, a Manchester-based scene that blended rock with dance-oriented rhythms and indie sensibilities. Their sound and success helped shape British alternative music in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Members

The best-known lineup included Ian Brown on vocals, John Squire on guitar, Gary "Mani" Mounfield on bass, and Alan "Reni" Wren on drums. Earlier lineups included other Manchester musicians before the classic quartet became established.

Legacy

The Stone Roses are widely regarded as one of the most influential British bands of their era. Their debut album has often been described as a landmark record in British rock.

Key facts

  • The band formed in Manchester in 1983 and were a leading group in the Madchester movement.
  • Their classic lineup featured Ian Brown, John Squire, Gary "Mani" Mounfield, and Alan "Reni" Wren.
  • Their self-titled debut album was released in 1989 and is considered a landmark record.
  • They broke up in the mid-1990s and later reformed for a reunion period.
  • Their music influenced later British acts, including bands associated with britpop.
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Canadian context

The Stone Roses influenced British rock audiences in Canada through their impact on alternative and indie rock; their music is part of the wider UK rock canon often covered by Canadian music media and listeners.

Frequently asked questions

Who are The Stone Roses?
The Stone Roses are an English rock band from Manchester known for their role in the Madchester scene and for their 1989 debut album.
When did The Stone Roses form?
They formed in 1983 in Manchester, England.
What is their best-known album?
Their best-known release is their self-titled debut album, *The Stone Roses*, released in 1989.
Who were the classic members of the band?
The classic lineup was Ian Brown, John Squire, Gary "Mani" Mounfield, and Alan "Reni" Wren.
What genre are they associated with?
They are associated with rock, alternative rock, and the Madchester movement.

References

  1. The Independent — https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/features/stone-roses-30-anniversary-album-debut-legacy-ian-brown-john-squire-a8894706.html
    Supports: Formation in 1983 and early lineup details; significance of the band and debut album.
  2. Encyclopedia.com — https://www.encyclopedia.com/education/news-wires-white-papers-and-books/stone-roses
    Supports: Band overview, members, formation in Manchester, and releases including debut and second album.
  3. The Stone Roses — https://www.thestoneroses.co.uk/bio
    Supports: Official biography with formation, breakup, and reformation dates.
  4. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Stone_Roses
    Supports: General band history, classic lineup, and genre association.