Michael Ward Settle, born on March 20, 1941, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is an accomplished American songwriter, journalist, broadcaster, and singer. Settle's musical journey began as a solo artist and member of The New Christy Minstrels. His debut solo album, "Folk Sing Hallelujah" (1961), garnered positive reviews, with the title track "Sing Hallelujah" achieving success through covers by various European artists and becoming a hit for Judy Collins in 1967. His composition "Settle Down (Goin' Down That Highway)" was notably recorded by Peter, Paul and Mary for their 1963 album "Moving."

Settle gained significant recognition as a member of Kenny Rogers and The First Edition from 1967 to 1970. During this period, he composed several songs, including the 1969 pop hit "But You Know I Love You." He also wrote "It's Gonna Be Better," "The Last Few Threads Of Love," and "Goodtime Liberator," among others. After his tenure with the group, Settle joined Running Bear and Goldstein, contributing to the original recording of "Rings," later popularized by Cymarron and Lobo.

In 1971, Settle was involved in a unique project with the Sugar Bears, a studio group that released the song "You Are The One" as a cardboard cut-out record on Post Sugar Crisp cereal boxes. The song reached No. 51 on the Billboard pop chart in April 1972. Additionally, Settle contributed to the soundtrack of the cult classic film "Vanishing Point" (1971).

Throughout his career, Settle has been credited as a producer, arranger, vocalist, and musician on works by artists such as Kim Carnes, John Stewart, Glenn Yarbrough, and the Kingston Trio. His discography includes albums like "Pastures Of Plenty" (1963), "The Mike Settle Shindig" (1965), and "Mike Settle" (1971). Today, Settle continues to work as a journalist and music critic.