John M Xepoleas

John Xepoleas was born in March of 1953 to parents, Gus Xepoleas and Freda Xepoleas (Chrisand) in San Francisco, CA.
John was fascinated by the drums at a young age. He began performing and teaching in 1971, and became an active part of the San Francisco Bay Area music scene from then on. In 1978 he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Performance from Cal State Hayward. He then went on to perform a variety of musical genres, ranging from: jazz, rock, funk, big band, R&B and fusion.
John's drumming mastery led him through diverse musical landscapes -- establishing himself as a sought-after session drummer, studio engineer, author, and performer.
His educational contributions were just as profound. He not only taught drumming techniques, but was an author of 5 best selling drum books and the sole contributor to his online lessons, John X Online Drum Lessons. He also enjoyed mentoring young aspiring drummers. In the spring of 1995, John was appointed director of drum set studies for the Soundwall Rock 'N' Roll music camps, where he guided emerging musicians aged 12 to 17 and nurtured their talents by sharing his passion for music. In the fall of that same year, he played on the Camel CD release, Harbour of Tears.
John met his wife, Rebecca Xepoleas (Tiesiera), in 1983, and they shared 36 loving years of marriage together that were full of adventure. They were best friends and partners. Together, they had one son and one daughter, Nicholas (Lacey) Xepoleas, and Sophia (Shahram) Tavakol.
Beyond his musical pursuits, John found solace in the outdoors, particularly as an avid fisherman. His fishing trips -- especially to his favorite spot, Kennedy Meadows -- allowed him to create cherished memories with his family and friends that are sure to last beyond his time here on earth.
John's journey took an unforeseen turn in 2015 when he was diagnosed with ALS. Supported by his wife and children, he faced this battle with the same bravery and tenacity that defined his drumming. Throughout his nearly 9-year struggle, John remained an inspiration to his community and all who knew him, radiating positivity and teaching profound lessons about resilience and the essence of life.
Although John's life was cut short, he leaves behind a profound legacy that will live on through those he knew and loved.

To support others who are suffering from ALS, please consider donating to the ALS Association to help find a cure: https://tinyurl.com/ycsuvwmu