Videos by According2HipHop
John Paris, a longtime drummer for the legendary R&B group Earth, Wind & Fire, was reportedly transported to the hospital hours before he was set to take the stage. Paris, who’s been with the group since 2001, reportedly suffered a cardiac incident while practicing at the venue, according to TMZ.
The show, headlined by the band and Lionel Ritchie at the Chase Center, didn’t go on for obvious reasons, as fire trucks and an ambulance arrived.
The Chase Center announced that the show is canceled and for attendees to hold onto their tickets as a new date is set. None of the other members of the band were involved in the incident.
Paris is reportedly in critical condition.
Fans offered their support in the comments.
“My heart & prayers go out to the family. May God heal John Paris,” one user posted.
“Wishing John Paris a full and speedy recovery. His contributions to music have brought joy to millions,” another user posted.
“Sending so much love and strength to John Paris and his family. Earth, Wind & Fire’s rhythm wouldn’t be the same without him. Praying for a swift and full recovery for a true legend,” another user posted.
🚨 EXCLUSIVE: Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris hospitalized after medical emergency.
— TMZ (@TMZ) August 7, 2026
Details: https://t.co/DDpUwEiE1A pic.twitter.com/Lx81W6BZLm
John Paris Through The Years
He’s been a longtime drummer, known well in San Francisco. He’s worked with the likes of Patti Labelle, Kelly Clarkson, Bruce Hornsby, Wayman Tisdale, and Phillip Bailey’s 1994 solo record.
The drummer also serves as one part of the jazz duo Back 2 Basics, with Eddie Minnifield.
