Happy Mondays bassist Paul Ryder has died at the age of 58, the band have confirmed.
Alongside his front man brother Shaun, Paul founded the Happy Mondays in 1980 and was credited with giving the band their signature rolling groove, present on hits such as Step On and Kinky Afro.
In a statement on Facebook, the Manchester band said: "The Ryder family and Happy Mondays band members are deeply saddened and shocked to say that Paul Ryder passed away this morning.
"A true pioneer and legend. He will be forever missed. We thank you for respecting the privacy of all concerned at this time.
The Ryder family and Happy Mondays band members are deeply saddened and shocked to say that Paul Ryder passed away this morning
— Happy Mondays (@Happy_Mondays) July 15, 2022
A true pioneer and legend. He will be forever missed ❤️
We thank you for respecting the privacy of all concerned at this time
Long live his funk x pic.twitter.com/e2LdSaQD6u
"Long live his funk."
Synonymous with the "Madchester" music scene, the group achieved success with their blend of psychedelia and alternative rock alongside other northern English bands such as The Stone Roses and Inspiral Carpets.
Ryder remained an active member as the Happy Mondays broke up and reformed multiple times across the last 40 years.
Outside of the band, he also acted in several films including The Ghosts Of Oxford Street and Losing It, and also made a cameo as a gangster in the film 24 Hour Party People, about the Madchester music scene.
He also formed the band Big Arm and released a 2008 album titled Radiator, and played DJ sets around the world.
In January 2012, it was announced that the Happy Mondays were reforming with all of the original members, including Paul.
Oasis and Ride guitarist Andy Bell was among those paying tribute, tweeting: "Really sad news about Paul Ryder, RIP."
The Stone Roses front man Ian Brown added: "Rest in peace Ryder. A great friend, a great musician, a great fella, big love to Amelia, Jacob, Sonny, Chico and the family and band. Love ya longtime Pabs."
The Charlatans lead singer Tim Burgess has also paid tribute to Ryder, saying said: "Sending much love to the Happy Mondays family - Paul Ryder was a pioneer and an inspiration to all of us that followed.
"He played on so many era-defining tracks. Listening to Bummed right now. Safe travels."
Happy Mondays were due to play Vicar Street, Dublin this December, but the gig is now cancelled.
Source: Press Association
