Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris remains hospitalized after suffering a serious medical emergency on August 6, shortly before the group was scheduled to perform in San Francisco.
His family said doctors placed him in an induced coma while he received critical care. Paris later regained consciousness for a period, recognized people around him and was able to speak. After complications involving his blood pressure and breathing, doctors sedated him again as part of his ongoing treatment.
People close to the musician have said he has shown small signs of response, including reactions when music is played near him.
The emergency led to the postponement of Earth, Wind & Fire’s scheduled concert with Lionel Richie at Chase Center. The performance has since been moved to September 26.
Paris has played drums with Earth, Wind & Fire since 2001. Over the course of his career, he has also worked with several other prominent artists, including Patti LaBelle, Sheila E. and Kelly Clarkson.
