Date of Birth: April 29, 1933
Zodiac Sign: Taurus
Date of Death: January 29, 2015
Biography
Rod McKuen was an American poet, singer-songwriter, and actor, born on April 29, 1933, in Oakland, California. McKuen’s career spanned several decades, during which he became one of the best-selling poets in the United States. He published numerous poetry collections, including “Stanyan Street & Other Sorrows” and “Listen to the Warm.” His work often centered on themes of love, nature, and personal introspection, resonating with a broad audience. Apart from his poetry, McKuen was a prolific songwriter. He wrote popular songs for artists like Frank Sinatra and Perry Como, and his compositions were a staple in the music industry during the 1960s and 1970s. One of his most famous songs, “Jean,” was nominated for an Academy Award. McKuen’s influence extended to the silver screen as well; he scored music for films and appeared as an actor in several productions. He was also a notable advocate for LGBT rights and environmental issues. His work earned him multiple awards and recognition, solidifying his legacy as a multifaceted artist.
5 Interesting Facts about Rod McKuen
1. Rod McKuen’s poetry collections sold over 60 million copies worldwide.
2. He received two Grammy nominations in 1968 for his album “Lonesome Cities.”
3. McKuen’s song “Jean,” performed by Oliver, was a hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1969.
4. He was a close friend of Jacques Brel and translated many of Brel’s songs into English.
5. McKuen was an early advocate of animal rights and environmental preservation.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Rod McKuen
1. “It doesn’t matter who you love, or how you love, but that you love.”
2. “No map or chart will be of any use to us if we are lost in a cloud of reality.”
3. “We touch each other, but even the strongest touch is only a touch.”
4. “Love is the greatest touch-up artist of all time.”
5. “The only thing that can save us as a species is seeing the humanity in each other.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Rod McKuen’s net worth was estimated to be around $20 million.
Children
Rod McKuen did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [Rod McKuen – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rod_McKuen
2. [Rod McKuen’s Official Website](http://www.mckuen.com
4. [The Guardian – Rod McKuen](https://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/jan/30/rod-mckuen
