The country music community is mourning the loss of beloved singer Richard “Kinky” Friedman, who passed away at the age of 79 at his Texas home in late June. He died at Echo Hill Ranch in Medina, surrounded by loved ones, as announced in a heartfelt social media post on June 27.

The announcement described his passing as him “stepping on a rainbow” at his cherished Echo Hill. Despite enduring significant suffering and loss in recent years, he maintained his fighting spirit and sharp sense of humor. In 2006, he gained media attention for challenging Rick Perry in the gubernatorial race, though he ultimately lost.

Friedman also sought the Democratic nomination for agriculture commissioner in 2010 and 2014, but was unsuccessful. His longtime friend Clive Hattersley remembered him as a remarkable communicator who could evoke strong emotions, whether through laughter or tears, while battling Parkinson’s disease.

Friedman first gained fame in the early 1970s with his satirical country band, Kinky Friedman and The Texas Jewboys, known for hits like “They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore.” He released a solo album in 1974 and toured with Bob Dylan, producing a total of eighteen albums, with his last, “Circus of Life,” released in 2018.