Earth, Wind & Fire canceled its scheduled performance at Chase Center in San Francisco on Thursday evening due to a medical emergency involving a band member, the group announced on social media. The show, part of the Sing A Song All Night Long Tour with Lionel Richie, was called off shortly before its planned start time.
The band stated in a post that tonight’s show with Lionel Richie will be rescheduled, with a new date to be announced. Ticket holders were advised to retain their tickets, which will be honored for the new date, or request refunds at the point of purchase. The group added, “We sincerely apologize for the unexpected change and appreciate everyone’s understanding.”
San Francisco Fire Department personnel were dispatched to Chase Center at 5:30 p.m. in response to a medical emergency, according to a spokesperson. A private ambulance transported one person to a local hospital in critical condition. TMZ reported the incident involved a ‘cardiac incident’, though no further details about the band member’s identity or condition were provided.
The cancellation marks the latest disruption to the joint tour, which began in June 2024 and had recently begun its California leg. Earth, Wind & Fire, founded in Chicago around 1969 by Maurice White, is known for hits such as “September,” “Shine,” and “Let’s Groove.” The tour’s lineup includes Lionel Richie, who has faced his own health-related challenges during the tour.
Lionel Richie previously postponed two tour stops in Chicago and Columbus, Ohio, after experiencing a ‘dizzy spell’ during a performance in St. Paul, Minnesota, on June 24. A representative for Richie confirmed the incidents were unrelated to the band’s current situation.
Earth, Wind & Fire has not disclosed the name of the affected band member or provided updates on their condition. The band restricted comments on its social media pages following the announcement and has not issued further statements since the cancellation.