Famed country singer Kinky Friedman died in his sleep at home on June 27th at the age of 79.
His death Check it out on Twitter In a brief message shared on the day he passed away, Kinky Friedman “stepped over a rainbow in his beloved Echo Hill, surrounded by family and friends,” the post read. “The Kinkster has endured great pain and unthinkable loss in recent years, but he never lost his fighting spirit or wit. As long as his books are read and his songs are sung, Kinky will live on.”
Kinky Friedman stepped on a rainbow in his beloved Echo Hill, surrounded by family and friends. The Kinkster has endured great pain and unimaginable loss in recent years, but he never lost his fighting spirit or wit. Kinky will live on as long as his books are read and his songs are sung. pic.twitter.com/sIXnoglSby
— Kinky Friedman (@FriedmanKinky) June 27, 2024
UNSPECIFIED – Circa 1974: Photo of Kinky Friedman (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
Friedman's close friend Kent Perkins posted a lengthy and heartfelt message to the talented artist and author. Facebook.
“He leaves a legacy of laughter, music, loyalty, compassion, generosity, service and wisdom,” Perkins wrote. “He was best known as a best-selling author, humorist, songwriter and singer, but we, his closest friends and family, knew him as a rescuer of unwanted dogs and cats, a compassionate, philanthropic and quiet man who dedicated much of his life to serving those less fortunate.”
Perkins spoke fondly of Friedman's kindness and compassion.
“He and his sister, Marcy, founded Echo Hill Gold Star Camp, which is currently open for children who have lost a parent in the line of duty in the military, police, fire and ambulances.”
“The 'Kinkster' left an incredible mark on this planet,” he said. “He was friends with presidents, homeless vagrants, and every type of person in between. To him, everyone was equally valuable.”
Perkins highlighted Friedman's varied musical career: “At 79 years old, Kinky had a guitar around his neck and was playing on stage for as long as he could stand. And then he sat down and played.”
He ended his post by sharing a series of memories and capturing the essence of his dear friend's personality.
“Somewhere in heaven there must be a quiet corner with a big easy chair, a bright floor lamp, a pile of biographies, and a few old dogs wagging their tails at the faint smell of cigar smoke,” Perkins recited.
Portrait of American musician, author and comedian Kinky Friedman posing backstage at the Farm Aid benefit concert at Texas Stadium in Dallas, Texas, March 14, 1992. (Photo by Paul Natkin/Getty Images)
Friedman's real name is Richard Friedman. He formed his first band in college and his second band, Kinky Friedman and the Texas Jewboys, in 1973. New York Post.
That very same year, he released the song “Sold American,” which skyrocketed his career and made him an instant country and western star.
Friedman continued releasing music into 2018, according to the New York Post.
His long-running career also included touring with Bob Dylan from 1975 to 1976.
He is best known for songs such as “Sold American,” “Honky Town Heroes,” “Ride 'em Jewboy,” “They Ain't Makin' Jews Like Jesus Anymore,” and “The Ballad of Charles Whitman.”(Related: '90s rock frontman Shifty Shellshock dies at 49)
This talented musician was also an accomplished author, penning detective novels and serving as a columnist for Texas Monthly.
He left a huge mark on the entertainment world and his talent will be treasured for a long time to come.
