Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris was hospitalized after a critical medical emergency just minutes before the band was set to perform in San Francisco, prompting members of the group and close friends to rally around him with donations and support. The Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris health crisis also forced the cancellation of the band’s scheduled Chase Center show with Lionel Richie on Thursday.
Several familiar names tied to the music world have already contributed to the fundraising effort created for Paris. Saxophonist Gary Bias donated $200, while keyboardist Myron McKinley gave $500. Other donors listed include collaborator Grecco Buratto, former Chicago band member Jeff Coffey, and music manager Atron Gregory, who each added to the support effort. Buratto contributed $100, Coffey gave $1,000, and Gregory donated $500.
Paris reportedly suffered a cardiac incident at the arena shortly before the performance was supposed to begin. The fundraiser says he is receiving care and is surrounded by family, friends, and fans who are keeping him in their prayers. Shelly Clark, a founding member of Honey Cone, started the GoFundMe to help Paris and his wife, Kathy Merrick, with medical expenses and the costs that have come with the emergency.
Merrick, who is also a founding member of Honey Cone, has postponed upcoming performances so she can remain with her husband. The fundraiser says Merrick has stayed by Paris’s side along with their daughter, Kyla. It also notes that the couple’s home is in the Los Angeles area, which has added travel, lodging, meal, and other unexpected expenses while Paris remains under care.
