In 2011, he joined Huw James on Guitar & vocals and Julian Caddy on bass to form The John Steeds. Houghton also served for around 10 years as the house band drummer for the weekly jam night at The Marr's Bar in Worcester.
In 2011, Houghton formed The John Steeds with Huw James and Julian Caddy, combining their talents on guitar and vocals, and bass. He also spent around 10 years as the drummer for the regular band at The Marr's Bar in Worcester.