A highly regarded player on drums and banjo, John Gill has recorded with a variety of ensembles on many labels. Growing up in the same neighborhood as drummer Tony Sbarbaro of the Original Dixieland Jazz Band, Sbarbaro became a major influence. Gill had early experience playing with Tony Parenti and Vince Giordano.

In 1977, Gill moved to San Francisco and joined Turk Murphy's band, playing drums, banjo, and soprano saxophone. During 1984-85, while still with Murphy, he recorded on Stomp Off with his Original Sunset Five, a group with Murphy sidemen, including pianist Ray Skjelbred.

During his time in San Francisco, John Gill made a significant contribution as a curator of the SFTJF Archive. He created the Foundation's significant CD re-issue program, packaging and releasing albums which helped finance SFTJF work. Gill produced recordings from historical audio assets in the collection, and was known for selecting recorded performances that showcased the best work of the musicians involved. He also assisted with the organization of materials.

John Gill enjoyed a busy career in music, freelancing in San Francisco, New York, New Orleans, and Austin. He was a longtime member of Woody Allen's famed New Orleans Jazz Band.