Hospitalized ahead of an August 6 concert in San Francisco, Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris has been placed into an induced coma.
Married to the band’s bassist, Verdine White, singer Shelly Clark-White updated fans on the Standing for John Paris Facebook page, that was created by the Whites and Paris’s longtime friend Tazz Cole.
Though the post did not disclose the specifics of the musician’s condition, it stated that the decision to place the stickman into a coma came after he experienced hypertension and had difficulty breathing, adding:
“Over the past several days, we have intentionally kept many details of John’s condition private out of respect for him and his family.” “As information has begun to circulate publicly, we feel it’s important that everyone hears the story directly from us so there is no confusion about where things stand today.” “Today, John remains resting under sedation while his medical team carefully monitors him and determines the safest path forward.” “Although this has been an emotional roller coaster, there have continued to be small moments that give those closest to him hope.”
An essential part of the Earth, Wind & Fire lineup for the past quarter century, Paris was rushed to the hospital just before the band’s August 6 appearance as part of Lionel Richie’s Sing a Song All Night Long Tour.
With more than $70,000.00 raised as of August 16, a GoFundMe page has been set up for the drummer.
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Author: Al Dente
Photo: dbking from Washington DC, United States of America