John Paris of Earth, Wind & Fire in induced coma after medical emergency

John Paris, the 58-year-old drummer for Earth, Wind & Fire, remains in a medically induced coma following a critical medical emergency on August 6. The incident occurred at the Chase Center in San Francisco just before the band was scheduled to perform with Lionel Richie.

According to updates from family and bandmates, Paris was hospitalized in critical condition. While he briefly regained consciousness and was able to speak to his wife, Kathy Merrick, and close friends, he was subsequently sedated again due to rising blood pressure and breathing difficulties. He remains under close medical supervision.

The San Francisco concert was postponed and has been rescheduled for September 26. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Paris and his family, raising nearly $70,000 toward a $75,000 goal.