Singer/songwriter John Miller moved to San Diego in 2003, entering the music scene with a few other buddies as Johnny Different. JD recorded one album, Growin' Up, produced and engineered by longtime San Diego musician Chuck Schiele (the Grams). In January 2007, the album received several reviews in various local papers and websites after a successful CD-release show at O'Connells.

During breaks and in between JD gigs, Miller kept himself busy with solo acoustic gigs at the Ocean Beach Farmer's Market, Dublin Square, and various other venues and acoustic showcases. After the amicable disbanding of Johnny Different in February 2008, Miller has been focusing his efforts on writing new material and performing acoustic shows.

In 2008, Miller was nominated for Best Acoustic at the San Diego Music Awards. He appears on Staring at the Sun, Volume VI and Chill Out: West Coast Edition, Volume 2. He also appears on the Grams' second studio album, Love Factory.

In summer 2010, Miller relocated with his wife to Cincinatti. “The band [John Miller and the Payback] is staying, though, they're each interested in doing shows whenever I come back into town,” he told the Reader. “I guess the only thing I can really say to San Diego, is thanks. The last seven years have changed my life dramatically. I fell in love, got married, and did more with music then I have ever before. I've met great people and great musicians that I've been fortunate to share the stage with. San Diego will most certainly always be some form of home and my experiences here will stay with me always.”