Happy Mondays star Paul Ryder has died aged 58. The founding member of the iconic Manchester band passed away on Friday morning his bandmates announced.
In a tribute posted on Twitter and Facebook, his bandmates 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."
Bass player Paul was a founding member of the Manchester band along with brother and frontman Shaun Ryder, both hailing from Little Hulton. They went on to achieve huge success in the 1980s and 90s with hits including Step On, Kinky Afro and Loose Fit.
His post-funk basslines came to define the music of the Madchester era, when the band were signed to the city's legendary label Factory Records. After leaving the Mondays he went on to live in America where he also pursued an acting career, as well as founding the band Big Arm.
But he returned to The Mondays reuniting with his brother in its original lineup for a hugely welcomed 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.
The festival posted its condolences to the band on social media on Friday saying: "We are all deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Paul Ryder this morning and our thoughts are with the Ryder family at this difficult time."
Bandmate Bez posted on Friday afternoon his own heartbroken tribute. He said: "It's with a heavy heart I have to say I'm already missing my good friend and band mate Horse. RIP."
Fans were devastated to hear the news on Friday, while key figures in the music and film industry sent their condolences to Shaun and the Ryder family, including Hacienda DJ Graeme Park, Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh and Oasis star Paul "Bonehead" Arthurs.
Stone Roses frontman Ian Brown paid an emotional tribute, and send his condolences to Paul's family. He posted: "Rest in peace Paul Ryder a great friend a great musician a great fella."
Manchester DJ and author Dave Haslam tweeted: "Really very sorry to hear of the death of Paul Ryder - he made a massive contribution to Happy Mondays and was good company and a top fella."
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