John had classical piano lessons from the age of eight until fifteen, and became interested in jazz as a twelve-year old. He played his first gigs locally in Essex, before turning professional in 1968, working in Geraldo's Navy aboard the Carmania, and then joined the QE2 for her maiden voyage to New York in 1969. He had a long association with the liner, and during the time accompanied an array of cabaret artistes.

From 1975 to 1985 he was a member of Ray Ellington's Quartet working at leading London venues for residencies, as well as two world cruises and radio and TV work. During the same period he became a regular session player, working with the BBC Radio Orchestra, Jack Parnell's Orchestra, Robert Farnon, Billy May, as well as touring with the James Last Orchestra.

His jazz work has taken him all over the world, including a tour of the Blue Note Jazz Clubs in Japan. He has accompanied many singers, including Anita O'Day, Selina Jones, Peggy Lee, Elaine Delmar and Annie Ross, Mark Murphy and a multitude of instrumentalists: Dick Morrisey, Art Farmer, Woody Shaw, Kenny Davern, Warren Vache, Eddie Daniels, Ken Peplowski, Tommy Whittle and Ronnie Scott.

He has been a member of Scott Hamilton's Quartet since 2000, and has performed with Scott throughout Europe.