Richard “Kinky” Friedman, the colorful and outspoken Texas satirist, singer, humorist, columnist, and provocateur, has died at the age of 79.
Friedman, known for his edgy music with his band The Texas Jewboys, his deep love for animals, and his spirited 2006 campaign for governor, made a lasting impact on Texas culture and politics.
“Kinky Friedman stepped on a rainbow at his beloved Echo Hill surrounded by family & friends,” read a post on his social media. “Kinkster endured tremendous pain & unthinkable loss in recent years but he never lost his fighting spirit and quick wit. Kinky will live on as his books are read and his songs are sung.”
Friedman, who called himself the “governor of the heart of Texas,” was famous for his unique take on country and Western music. He released several albums, starting with the influential “Sold American” in 1973. He toured with Bob Dylan on the Rolling Thunder Revue and was noted as the “first full-blooded Jew” to perform at the Grand Ole Opry.
Born in Chicago, Friedman moved to Texas with his family during his childhood and grew up in a ranching community near Kerrville.
In college, he became involved in the folk music scene, drawing inspiration from country, blues, and Jewish cultural themes to form the band Kinky Friedman and The Texas Jewboys in the early 1970s. The band became known for its satirical and provocative humor, with songs like “They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore” and “Asshole from El Paso” known for their biting satire and social commentary.
Throughout his music career, he released 18 albums, with his most recent one, “Circus of Life,” coming out in 2018.
Friedman also pursued a writing career, viewing himself as a modern-day Sherlock Holmes. His readers were taken on journeys to a fictionalized New York City, where he often incorporated lyrics from his songs into his stories.
From 2001 to 2005, he wrote a regular column for Texas Monthly, which he paused during his 2006 gubernatorial run. His column was later reinstated on a bi-monthly basis, reflecting his enduring passion for storytelling and humor.
Friedman’s inspirational work in music and literature will continue to live on through his songs and books. He truly was one of a kind. May he rest in peace.
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