At the age of 79, Richard “Kinky” Friedman, the colourful and controversial Texas satirist, musician, comedian, columnist, and general provocateur, passed away. Kinky Friedman made a lasting impression on Texas politics and culture. He was best known for his boundary-pushing music with his band The Texas Jewboys, his intense love of animals, and his passionate 2006 campaign for governor.
A statement on his social media said, “Kinky Friedman stepped on a rainbow at his beloved Echo Hill surrounded by family & friends.” “Kinkster never lost his quick wit or fighting spirit despite going through unimaginable loss and excruciating anguish in recent years. As long as people read and sing his works, Kinky will continue to exist.
Known for his peculiar and quirky approach to country and Western music, the self-described “governor of the heart of Texas” put out a number of albums, the most notable of which was the highly influential Sold American in 1973. His Rolling Thunder Revue tour included Bob Dylan, and he made history as the “first full-blooded Jew” to play at the Grand Ole Opry.
Originally from Chicago, Friedman spent his early years living on a ranch close to Kerrville after moving to Texas with his family.
He became heavily involved in the folk music scene while attending college, taking influence from blues, country, and Jewish themes to create Kinky Friedman and The Texas Jewboys in the early 1970s. With songs like They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore and Arsehole from El Paso, which are renowned for their scathing satire and social criticism, the band became well-known for its caustic and frequently offensive humour.
He has put out eighteen albums in the course of his career. Circus of Life, his most recent album, was published in 2018.
In addition to becoming a well-known musician, Friedman worked as a writer. Viewing himself as a contemporary Sherlock Holmes, he provided his readers with imaginary trips to New York City, transforming himself into several personas and interweaving song lyrics into his narratives.
He authored a regular piece for Texas Monthly from 2001 to 2005; he took a break from writing for his 2006 campaign for governor. Later, his column was brought back on a bimonthly basis, demonstrating his lasting love of humour and narrative.
Friedman’s songs and writings will carry on his inspirational literary and musical contributions for a long time. May he rest in peace, for he was genuinely unique. Please use Facebook to SHARE this post with your loved ones.
