John started his musical training in school playing the trumpet. When he reached high school he was drawn to vocals, guitar and percussion and played in a Jazz-Rock ensemble.

After high school, John formed a series of groups, both original and cover, in a wide range of musical styles from easy listening to hard rock.

Notably, one of John's bands opened for The Marshall Tucker Band.

In the eary '90s, John honed his performance skills by touring with the Boston Tribute band Don't Look Back as their lead vocalist and guitarist.