🎸 Country Music Mourns the Loss of Iconic Singer Kinky Friedman

The country music community is mourning the passing of Richard “Kinky” Friedman, who died at his Texas home in late June at age 79. Known for his sharp wit and fearless lyrics, Friedman was a true original who left a lasting mark on both music and politics.

In 2006, he ran for Texas governor against Rick Perry, capturing national attention with his humor and unconventional style, though he ultimately finished fourth. He later sought the Democratic nomination for agriculture commissioner in 2010 and 2014.

A longtime friend, Clive Hattersley, described Friedman as “a gifted communicator who could make people laugh and cry in equal measure.” Hattersley revealed that Friedman had been battling Parkinson’s disease in recent years.

Rising to fame in the early 1970s with his satirical band Kinky Friedman and The Texas Jewboys, he created provocative hits like “They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore” and “Get Your Biscuits in the Oven and Your Buns in the Bed.”

Over his legendary career, Friedman released 18 albums, including his final record, “Circus of Life,” in 2018 — a fitting farewell from one of country music’s most colorful voices.