Rod McKuen was an American poet, singer-songwriter, composer and actor. He was one of the best-selling poets in the United States during the late 1960s and early 1970s. His works explored themes of love, loneliness, and nature. He was also known for his collaborations with other musicians, including jazz musician Stan Getz and singer-songwriter John Denver. He won a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album in 1969.