Happy Mondays are releasing a special 7-inch record in memory of their legendary bassist Paul Ryder, who passed away earlier this month aged 58. The limited edition single will see all profits from the release donated to a charity chosen by his daughter, Amelia.
The 'Tart Tart’ limited edition 7-inch contains the original of the track, which first appeared on Happy Mondays 1987 debut album ‘Squirrel and G-Man Twenty Four Hour Party People Plastic Face Carnt Smile (White Out)’.
On the B-Side is a live version of the track from a BBC John Peel session.
READ MORE: We just lost Paul Ryder. And all these other Manchester music legends were taken far too soon
Money raised from the release will be donated to the Music Cares charity, which helps people in the music industry who are struggling with addiction issues.
Amelia said: “14 years ago, Paul was given help and support from the organisation who helped fund extended outpatient care and therapy that enabled him to have 14 subsequent happy and productive years. Just two weeks ago he mentioned them in an interview and often expressed his gratitude and desire to pay their support forward so others could be helped too.”
Paul, from Little Hulton, passed away on July 15. He was a founding member of the Salford band along with brother and frontman Shaun Ryder.
On the charity single release, Shaun commented: "This special release of Tart Tart showcases the unique musical talent of our brother Paul Ryder who passed from this world. We will all miss you Horse...he brought the funk and the rock n roll to Happy Mondays … love you long time R kid”
Paul and the band achieved huge success in the 80s and 90s with hits including Step On and Kinky Afro, before going on to live in America where he pursued an acting career and founded the band Big Arm.
Paul returned to The Mondays reuniting with his brother in its original line-up, for a comeback tour in 2012. The band had been back out on tour at festivals across the UK this year, and had been due to play at the Kubik Festival in the North East on Friday night.
Posting on his social media after the tragic news, Shaun wrote: "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. Long live his funk x"
The single costs £10 and is available to pre-order ahead of its release on November 18.
READ NEXT:
- Andy Burnham set to "bring the party" to Ancoats bar with DJ set
- Blooming beautiful! RHS Flower Show returns to Tatton Park
- Almost Famous giving away £5,000 Banksy artwork on final day serving burgers in NQ
- Pixies show off incredible craft at surprise Band on the Wall gig
- The best places in Manchester for after work drinks
