Celebrated country music singer, dies at 79 after Parkinson’s battle

Last month, the country music world lamented the devastating loss of beloved vocalist Richard “Kinky” Friedman, who died at his Texas home in late June at the age of 79.In 2006, he ran for governor against Rick Perry, gaining tremendous media attention but ultimately coming fourth. He also sought the Democratic nomination for agriculture commissioner in 2010 and 2014, but was unsuccessful.

Clive Hattersley, a lifelong friend, remembered him as a gifted communicator who could elicit strong emotions, whether via tears or laughter. Hattersley also stated that he was suffering Parkinson’s illness. He rose to prominence in the early 1970s when he formed the satirical country band Kinky Friedman and The Texas Jewboys, who recorded songs like “They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore” and “Get Your Biscuits in the Oven and Your Buns in the Bed.”

Despite the band’s brief existence, he continued his musical career, releasing a self-titled solo album in 1974 and embarking on a two-year tour with Bob Dylan. He published 18 albums over his career, the last of which, “Circus of Life,” was released in 2018.