Richard Samet “Kinky” Friedman, a Texan singer-songwriter known for his offbeat charm and unapologetic wit, died peacefully at 79.
A statement posted to Friedman’s social media X page on June 27 states, “Kinky Friedman stepped on a rainbow at his beloved Echo Hill surrounded by family & friends. 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.”
Kent Perkins, a close friend of Friedman and a fellow musician, informed the media that Friedman had battled Parkinson’s disease for a number of years before his death, per NBC 5 DFW.
“He died peacefully. He smoked a cigar, went to bed, and never woke up,” said Perkins, per NBC 5.
Born Richard Samet Friedman in Chicago in 1944, the eccentric singer-songwriter was raised in Houston before making Texas his lifelong home. His colorful career spanned music, literature, and politics, leaving an indelible mark on each.
Friedman’s musical journey began in Nashville in the early 1970s, when, according to Rolling Stone, he adopted the stage name “Kinky” to better suit his outlaw country persona.
Friedman toured as Kinky Friedman and the Texas Jewboys, challenging conventions with songs like “They Ain’t Making Jews Like Jesus Anymore,” which stirred both acclaim and controversy for its provocative satire.
Despite his musical success, Friedman pivoted to writing novels and became a beloved columnist for Texas Monthly, where his Texanist column showcased his sharp humor and deep affection for his home state.
Friedman’s gubernatorial bid in 2006, characterized by slogans such as “Why the hell not?” and promises of Willie Nelson as his energy czar, solidified his status as a political maverick and cultural icon.
In recent years, Friedman returned to his musical roots with the introspective album “Circus of Life.” The album revealed a new type of vulnerability that resonated deeply with fans and critics alike.
Beyond his artistic endeavors, Friedman was a passionate advocate for animal welfare, founding Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch in 1998. According to Rolling Stone, he lived surrounded by rescue animals at Echo Hill Ranch, cherishing the company of dogs and hummingbirds.
A post quoting Friedman’s X page illustrates his love for animals, specifically a cat named Cuddles.
The post reads, “They say when you die and go to heaven all the dogs and cats you’ve ever had in your life come running to meet you. Until that day, rest in peace, Cuddles.”