In San Francisco, John began playing guitar with Curtis Lawson and The Unforgettables at the Checkmate Lounge, Dori’s 21 Club at the Embarcadero, and the L&L Cabaret.

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He became a founding member of both the Holehouse Blues Band and the Broadway Blues Band, and has performed with Sista’ Monica Parker both in concert and on her recordings.

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He has performed on stage with:

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• James Brown

• Albert King

• Buddy Guy

• The Staples Singers

• Tower of Power

• Billy Preston

• Gatemouth Brown

• Albert Collins

• Lady Bianca

• John Lee Hooker

• Bobby Bland

• Koko Taylor

• Little Milton

• James Cotton

• Brownie McGee

• Junior Wells

• Junior Walker

• Buddy Miles

John began songwriting at the same time as he began performing professionally, composing for the groups that he played with and having his songs performed live and recorded for commercial release.

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He formed two of his own groups: Rhythm Box, an original nine-piece R&B / funk group, and the John Morris Band, an original blues, jazz, and R&B band.

The John Morris Band’s first album Busy on You received international recognition, getting airplay in Europe on the BBC, as well as throughout Australia and the US. After its success, he recorded a second album of original material, entitled American Soul.