Paul Ryder was a British musician best known as the bassist and co-founder of the band Happy Mondays. Formed in 1980, the band became a key player in the Madchester music scene, blending rock, funk, and dance music. Ryder's distinctive style and energetic performances contributed to the band's popularity during the late 1980s and early 1990s. In addition to his work with Happy Mondays, Paul Ryder also collaborated with various artists and participated in side projects throughout his career. His influence on the music scene, particularly in the Britpop and alternative rock genres, has left a lasting legacy.