John Wheeler was born in London, England, and studied classical guitar for four years at London's Spanish Guitar Center. After discovering Eric Clapton in the early '60s, he embarked on a long career playing first in original rock and fusion bands and later in commercial groups, both in Europe and the U.S. and Canada.

In England, he formed a band that opened shows for artists such as David Bowie and Fleetwood Mac. In Australia, he was a member of one of the country's top recording and concert rock bands. A Reno resident for more than 20 years, Wheeler has played with many of the area's casino acts and is a long-time member of Gary & Sandy's band. He was guitar instructor at the University of Nevada, Reno for seven years and is the author of a comprehensive guitar instruction method.