Richard ‘Kinky’ Friedman, celebrated country music singer, dies at 79 after Parkinson’s battle

The country music scene last month mourned the tragic loss of beloved singer Richard “Kinky” Friedman, who passed away at his home in Texas in late June, aged 79.

As per an update shared via an emotional social media post on Thursday, June 27, Friedman passed surrounded by family and friends at his home in Echo Hill Ranch in Medina.

“Kinky Friedman stepped on a rainbow at his beloved Echo Hill, surrounded by family and friends,” the post read. “Despite enduring tremendous pain and unthinkable loss in recent years, Kinkster never lost his fighting spirit and quick wit.”

Readers may remember that Friedman ran for governor against Ricky Perry in 2006, but though his bid garnered plenty of media attention, he ultimately finished fourth in the race. The country music singer also ran unsuccessfully for the Democratic nomination for agriculture commissioner in 2010 and in 2014.

Longtime friend Clive Hattersley said: “He was a communicator. An unusual, but very pointed and poignant communicator. He could bring you to tears on stage. He could make you roll on the floor in laughter.” Hattersley also said that Friedman had Parkinson’s disease.

Friedman formed the satirical country band Kinky Friedman and The Texas Jewboys in the early 1970s, writing songs such as “They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore” and “Get Your Biscuits in the Oven and Your Buns in the Bed.” With the collaboration short-lived, Kinky released a self-titled solo album in 1974, prior to embarking upon a two-year tour with music legend Bob Dylan.

Per the Texas Monthly: “Richard “Kinky” Friedman, a Texas icon who infused his songs, fiction, and campaign speeches…”

Over the course of his popular career, the singer released a total of 18 albums. His most recent offering, “Circus of Life,” came out in 2018.

Rest in peace, Richard Friedman.