Happy Mondays emerged from Salford, Greater Manchester, in 1980, blending indie rock and funk into their signature sound. Led by Shaun Ryder, with brother Paul Ryder on bass, Mark Day (guitar), Paul Davis (keys), and Gary Whelan (drums), they later added Mark ‘Bez’ Berry as a dancer/percussionist and Rowetta on vocals.
Discovered by Tony Wilson, they signed to Factory Records, releasing their debut album 'Squirrel and G-Man Twenty Four Hour Party People Plastic Face Carnt Smile (White Out)' in 1987. Breakthrough success came with 'Pills ’n’ Thrills and Bellyaches' (1990), featuring hits like 'Step On' and 'Kinky Afro', cementing their status as UK music icons.
The band saw multiple breakups and reunions, with line-up changes over the years. In 2022, founding bassist Paul Ryder sadly passed away, and Mikey Shine stepped in. Rowetta departed in 2024, with Firouzeh Berry joining in 2025.
With their enduring influence and electrifying live shows, Happy Mondays remain one of the UK’s most legendary bands.
