Country fans are in mourning after the passing of iconic country music star Richard Friedman, more commonly known as Kinky Friedman. Friedman passed away on June 27th, 2024 at the age of 79.
Kinky’s career spanned music, literature, and even politics. He used a blend of humor, social commentary, and country twang which followed his decades-long career.
Entry Into Music Career
Friedman’s musical career began in the late 1960s after his time in the Peace Corps in Borneo. His unique style of country with satirical lyrics and sharp wit gained massive attention from the local music scene in Austin, Texas.
Friedman’s early performances at venues like the Armadillo World Headquarters in Austin helped establish him as a rising star in the outlaw country movement.
The Texas Jewboys
After his initial entry into the country scene in Texas, Friedman formed his band, Kinky Friedman and The Texas Jewboys. The band name itself was his display of unique humor, making a play on Bob Willis and His Texas Playboys. The band had a combination of musicians throughout their tenure, but was made up of musicians who were able to keep up with his eccentric and electric style.
The Texas Jewboys were mostly recognized for their energetic live performances and their ability to to blend country music with satire and social critique. They released a few different albums, with their debut in 1973 of “Sold American” gaining the most attention and, of course, controversy.
Kinky Friedman Controversial Songs
Friedman is not only known for his eccentric style, but his controversial music as well. Some of his most controversial songs included “They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore”, “Get Your Biscuits in the Oven and Your Buns in the Bed”, and “Asshole from El Paso”.
Each of these songs not only pushed boundaries, but also sparked debate amongst many of his fans and country music fans. These songs boasted anti-bigotry confronting racism, male chauvinism, and Texan stereotypes.
Transition from Musician to Novelist
Throughout the 1980’s, Friedman shifted from music to writing, with his first mystery novel “Greenwich Killing Time” in 1986. This novel introduced his infamous character, detective Kinky Friedman, and sparked a line of successful mystery novels.
Friedman would go on to write over 30 novels, with a combination of mystery, non-fiction, and a collection of essays. This transition allowed Friedman to reach new audiences and showcase his storytelling abilities in a different medium.
Life in Politics
While Kinky never actually served as a Texas Governor, he did run as an Independent in 2006. His unconventional humor and style made its way into the race, with his iconic slogan “Why the hell not?”.
He proposed legalizing casino gambling to fund education and suggested appointing Willie Nelson as energy secretary. Though he finished fourth with 12.6% of the vote, Friedman’s campaign brought attention to issues like education reform and border security.
Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch
Friedman would go on to create the Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch in Medina, Texas in 1998. This no-kill shelter emphasized rehabbing stray, abused, and unwanted animals, specifically dogs.
Friedman’s high profile brought extensive attention to animal rescue causes. The ranch operated on donations and volunteers, reflecting Friedman’s belief in community service.
Influence on Outlaw Country Music
Kinky’s career ended up being an influential movement in the outlaw country movement during the 1970’s. His lyrics and approach to controversial topics helped set him apart from the mainstream country artists. The separation from mainstream country artists helped pave the way for diverse voices within the genre.
His friendship with Willie Nelson and other outlaw country stars further cemented his place in this influential movement. Friedman’s blend of humor, social commentary, and traditional country sounds inspired subsequent generations of alternative country and Americana artists.
Friedman’s Career Resurgence
Kinky took time off from music but would have a resurgence in the 2010s and 2020s. He would go on to release new albums such as “The Loneliest Man I Ever Met” in 2015 and “Resurrection” in 2019. Both of these albums were critically acclaimed and displayed a more introspective side of his songwriting.
This late-career productivity demonstrated his enduring creativity and relevance. The resurgence also saw Friedman collaborating with younger artists and being recognized as an elder statesman of Texas music. This period reaffirmed Friedman’s status as a unique voice in American music and culture.
Friedman’s Legacy in Texas Culture
Given Friedman’s unique music and his work in writing, he had an extensive impact on Texas culture. His music, books, and political activities contributed to the state’s reputation for maverick personalities and independent thinking. With his witty observations of Texas life and promotion of Texan culture helped shape both internal and external perceptions of Texas.
Friedman’s legacy includes inspiring Texans to embrace their eccentricities and challenging stereotypes about the state, all while maintaining a deep love for Texas heritage.
Leave the Harbor and Sail on
A memorial for Richard “Kinky” Friedman takes place, on July 11 at 2 pm. at the Arcadia Live Theatre, 717 Water St. in downtown Kerrville. All his friends, family, and fans will take part in a celebration of his life, the way he would have wanted them to.
After his long and tough battle with Parkinson’s disease, he will finally be at peace. Friedman is survived by his sister Marcie and brother, Roger. Kinky never married nor had children of his own. Sail on, legend, sail on!
