At the age of 79 - US country singer Kinky Friedman dies
Kinky Friedman, the US country singer and author, passed away at the age of 79. He had suffered great pains and unimaginable losses in recent years, but he never lost his fighting spirit and sharp wit, according to his official channel on X platform. Friedman passed away in the company of his family and friends in the city of Kerrville in the US state of Texas.
Friedman's longtime companion, US actor Kent Perkins and friend Cleve Hattersley, confirmed Friedman's death to The Texas Tribune. According to the medium, Friedman was suffering from Parkinson's disease.
In the 70s, Friedman and his band "Kinky Friedman and The Texas Jewboys" were a fixture in the American folk music scene. Later, the Chicago-born singer wrote detective novels in which he played the main role. Friedman was known for his provocative ideas: He addressed the Holocaust in one of his country songs. His often satirical songs earned him the title "Frank Zappa of Country Music."
Friedman caused a stir in 2006 when he ran for Governor of Texas as an independent candidate. He ran against the Republican incumbent Rick Perry and finished fourth in the race for the office, reported The Texas Tribune.
"I have never met a more honest, funnier, selfless, generous, and sincere person than Richard 'Kinky' Samet Friedman," Perkins wrote in a Facebook post. His friend left a legacy of laughter, music, loyalty, compassion, tolerance, service, and wisdom.
Facebook Post by Kent Perkins Texas Tribune Report X-Post from official Kinky Friedman Channel
- Kinky Friedman's unique musical style, which was often described as a mix of country and provocative satire, earned him comparisons to the legendary Frank Zappa, reflecting the US policy of artistic freedom and expression within the music scene.
- Despite his political aspirations, such as running for Governor of Texas in 2006, Friedman's primary impact on the USA was through his music and writing, influencing generations of artists and fans who appreciated his unconventional approach to both genres.
- The US country music scene and literary world mourned the loss of Kinky Friedman, a talented artist who pushed boundaries with his controversial ideas and songs, including addressing heavy topics like the Holocaust in his music, reflecting the spirit of free expression and originality that is cherished in the USA.
