Earth, Wind & Fire Drummer John Paris Wakes From Induced Coma, Faces Two Major Surgeries
Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris has woken from an induced coma after suffering a critical medical emergency in early August, according to a statement shared with People by a representative for band member Verdine White. Paris, 58, remains in the intensive care unit and will need two major surgeries, the statement confirmed. His wife, Kathy Merrick, told People that the journey is "a marathon," that John is fighting every day, and that their hope is strong. (Rolling Stone)
The medical emergency struck on 6 August, ahead of Earth, Wind & Fire's scheduled concert with Lionel Richie in San Francisco. The band postponed the show and said they hoped to reschedule. At the time, they did not identify which member had been affected.
About a week later, Verdine White's wife, Shelly Clark White, and friend Tazz Cole shared an update on Facebook confirming that the details had been "intentionally" left private while Paris received treatment. Doctors had placed him into an induced coma on arrival at hospital so they could deliver the critical care he needed. Paris briefly woke during his treatment, was placed back into the coma to stabilise him, and has since woken again with what the statement described as encouraging progress.
A friend of Merrick has launched a GoFundMe page to support Paris and his wife during his hospitalisation. No further details about the nature of the medical emergency or the two upcoming surgeries have been made public.
Paris has served as Earth, Wind & Fire's drummer for years, carrying the rhythmic backbone of a band whose catalogue has soundtracked weddings, film scores and quiet living-room evenings alike — a reach few acts manage across generations. The band has not yet announced whether further tour dates will be affected.
Earth, Wind & Fire formed in Chicago in 1969 and built a body of work spanning funk, soul, R&B and pop, with hits including "September" and "Boogie Wonderland." The group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. Paris joined the touring lineup as a drummer and has been a fixture of the band's live performances.
