Kinky Friedman, the charismatic and often controversial figure celebrated for his satirical music, literature, and brief stint in politics, passed away at 79.

His death was announced via social media, stating, “Kinky Friedman stepped on a rainbow at his beloved Echo Hill surrounded by family & friends.” Despite grappling with personal challenges in recent years, including profound loss, Friedman remained resilient, renowned for his sharp wit and unyielding spirit. His legacy, the post affirmed, endures through his acclaimed books and beloved songs.

Richard Samet “Kinky” Friedman carved out a unique niche in music with his distinctive blend of country and Western, notably with albums like 1973’s “Sold American.” He toured alongside Bob Dylan on the iconic “Rolling Thunder Revue” and made history as the “first full-blooded Jew” to grace the Grand Ole Opry stage.

Beyond music, Friedman was a prolific writer, crafting detective novels and contributing columns to Texas Monthly. His irreverent humor was evident in his political bid for Texas Governor in 2006, with the slogan “My Governor is a Jewish Cowboy,” garnering significant attention and 12.6% of the vote among six candidates.

Born in Chicago and raised in Texas, Friedman’s journey began at the University of Texas at Austin, where he studied psychology before delving into music with bands like King Arthur & the Carrots and Kinky Friedman and the Texas Jewboys. Describing his band as a “country band with a social conscience,” his provocative tracks included “They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore” and “Ride ‘Em Jewboy.”

Transitioning from music in the 1980s, Friedman flourished as a novelist, penning works such as “Elvis, Jesus and Coca-Cola: A Novel” and “Kinky Friedman’s Guide to Texas Etiquette: Or How to Get to Heaven or Hell Without Going Through Dallas-Fort Worth.” Co-running the Echo Hill Gold Star Camp with his sister Marcie, he left a lasting impact on younger generations.

Kent Perkins, a close friend, reflected on social media, envisioning a serene corner in heaven with biographical books, a comfortable armchair, and the faint scent of cigar smoke amid the happy wagging tails of old dogs.

Kinky Friedman’s passing marks the close of an era, leaving a legacy of wit, music, literature, and enduring cultural influence that transcends his Texan origins.