Richard “Kinky” Friedman, the provocative and flamboyant Texas satirist, singer, humorist, columnist, and all-around provocateur, has died at the age of 79.
Known for his boundary-pushing music with his band The Texas Jewboys, his deep love for animals, and his spirited campaign for governor in 2006, Kinky Friedman left an indelible mark on Texas culture and politics.
“Kinky Friedman stepped on a rainbow at his beloved Echo Hill surrounded by family & friends,” a post on his social media read. “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.”
The self-proclaimed “governor of the heart of Texas,” renowned for his eccentric and unique take on country and Western music, released a series of albums starting with the influential Sold American in 1973. He toured with Bob Dylan on the Rolling Thunder Revue and was notable as the “first full-blooded Jew” to perform at the Grand Ole Opry.
Originally hailing from Chicago, Friedman moved to Texas with his family during his childhood and grew up in a ranching community near Kerrville.
During his college years, he immersed himself 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 gained fame for its satirical and often provocative humor, with tracks 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 a total of 18 albums, with his most recent one, Circus of Life, released in 2018.
Besides being a famous musician, Friedman also pursued a writing career. Seeing himself as a modern-day Sherlock Holmes, he offered his readers journeys to New York City fictionalizing versions of himself and incorporating 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 the world of 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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