In 2006, he ran for governor against Ricky Perry, drawing significant media attention, though he ultimately finished in fourth place. He also unsuccessfully sought the Democratic nomination for Secretary of Agriculture in 2010 and 2014.
A longtime friend, Clive Hattersley, fondly remembered him as an exceptional communicator who could evoke profound emotions, whether through tears or laughter. Hattersley also mentioned that he battled Parkinson’s disease. Kinky Friedman, Proudly Eccentric Texas Singer-Songwriter, Dead at 79 He first gained recognition in the early 1970s when he formed the satirical country band Kinky Friedman and The Texas Jewboys, known for songs such as “They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore” and “Get Your Biscuits in the Oven and Your Buns in the Bed.”
Although the band was only active for a short time, he continued his musical journey, releasing a self-titled solo album in 1974 and embarking on a two-year tour with Bob Dylan. He released 18 albums over the course of his career, with his last effort, “Circus of Life,” coming out in 2018.
Kinky Friedman Dies at 79, Country Singer Ran for Texas Governor – Bloomberg Last month, the country music scene mourned the tragic loss of beloved singer Richard “Kinky” Friedman, who passed away at his Texas home in late June at the age of 79.