Charles Miller (June 2, 1939 - June 14, 1980) was an influential American musician renowned for his role as the saxophonist and flutist in the multicultural Californian funk band War. Born in Olathe, Kansas, Miller moved with his family to Los Angeles at the age of two and later settled in Long Beach, California. His early interest in music was evident through his involvement with woodwinds, piano, guitar, and participation in school bands and orchestras.

Miller's musical journey was briefly interrupted by a football injury while he was at Long Beach City College in 1967. However, he soon resumed his passion for music, recording with various groups including Señor Soul and participating in sessions with The Ray Charles Band. He also toured with acts like the Debonaires and Afro Blues Quintet + 1.

In 1969, Miller joined Harold Brown, Howard E. Scott, and Papa Dee Allen to form the band Night Shift, which later evolved into War after a chance encounter with Eric Burdon and Lee Oskar. His deep voice and saxophone skills were central to the band's distinctive sound, particularly on the 1975 hit "Low Rider," which he co-wrote and sang.

Tragically, Charles Miller's life was cut short when he was stabbed to death during a botched street robbery in Los Angeles in 1980. Despite the passage of time, his murder remains unsolved. At the time of his death, he was survived by his wife Eddy Miller and their children Annette, Donald, Laurian, and Mark. His legacy endures through his contributions to music and the lasting impact of songs like "Low Rider."