New Zealand rock musician Chris Knox is unable to talk after suffering a stoke on Thursday.
Paul Kean, bass player for Knox's ex-band Toy Love, said he understood the 57-year-old could still not speak and doctors had taken action to try to relieve pressure on Knox's skull.
He had apparently been able to drink water and answer basic questions while being taken to hospital, Kean told The Dominion Post.
Earlier friends said doctors were anticipating Knox would, at best, be in a wheelchair for the rest of his life.
A family spokesman said Knox's partner, Barbara Ward, and children, John and Leisha, were grateful for the support and love they were getting.
Knox was one of the founders of iconic independent music label Flying Nun, and is also a writer and cartoonist.
His best-known songs include Not Given Lightly.
