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Kinky Friedman: A Legacy of Laughter and Lyrics
To say that Kinky Friedman was a multi-life figure who was famous for his quick wit and bold Texas chutzpah is an understatement, but it is where we will begin.
A unique voice has been lost to the country music and literature worlds. On June 26, 2024, at the age of 79½, the cigar-chomping, irreverent troubadour, and author Richard Samet “Kinky” Friedman passed away. To say that Kinky Friedman was a multi-life figure who was famous for his quick wit and bold Texas chutzpah is an understatement, but it is where we will begin.
The Friedman family relocated from Chicago to Houston not long after Friedman’s 1944 birth to run Echo Hill Ranch, a summer camp that Kinky would call home for the rest of his life. He had an innate curiosity for the unknown and a thirst for adventure throughout his youth. He went to University of Texas at Austin to study psychology, then joined the Peace Corps and went to Borneo, where he had an experience that would change his perspective on life and his art.
After forming Kinky Friedman and the Texas Jewboys in Nashville in the early 1970s, Friedman’s music career took off. Many have likened his band—a country group with a social conscience—to the twisted offspring of Bob Wills and Lenny Bruce. His fearless and innovative 1973 album “Sold American” cemented his reputation as an outlaw country artist.
He championed irreverence and lampooned Southern small-mindedness in his daring and sarcastic songs. Also, they mirrored the man’s complicated character; they were amazing. Fans and fellow musicians alike were won over by Kinky’s music for its combination of heart and comedy. Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan were among his closest companions, and he was a friend of presidents and icons as well as a composer par excellence.
“Musicians can run this state better than politicians. We won’t get a lot done in the mornings, but we’ll work late and be honest.”
Kinky was talented in more than just music, though. He contributed to Texas Monthly as a columnist and wrote detective novels in his spare time. His political career was just as eventful as his musical and literary ones. With his eccentric and funny campaign slogans, he captured the interest of many in 2006 when he conducted a longshot campaign for governor of Texas, with the campaign slogan “Why The Hell Not?”
For all the people whose lives Kinky Friedman impacted, his loss is a cause for contemplation. Not only will his music and writings live on, but so will the joy he spread via his infectious sense of humor. Despite experiencing immense suffering and grievance in recent years, his wit and determination persisted right up until the end.
We honour Kinky Friedman’s lasting impact on country music, literature, and the lives of his fans and acquaintances even as we grieve his passing. People will keep reading his books, singing his songs, and cherishing his memories. According to his close friend Kent Perkins, “in a peaceful corner of paradise there is a large, comfortable chair, a well-lit floor lamp, a collection of biographies, and a couple of elderly dogs tail-wagging to the subtle aroma of cigar smoke”.
The world lost some of its vibrancy when Kinky Friedman trod on a rainbow. His uniqueness and the joy he brought to others via his music will live on in the hearts of listeners for years to come.
The life of Kinky Friedman was a vibrant tapestry adorned with melodies, lyrics, and an unwavering zeal for living. While we say our goodbyes to the Kinkster, may his legacy continue on throughout country music and beyond via the songs and recollections that we cherish.
The Toyota 53rd Golden Guitar Awards lit up Tamworth last night, celebrating the very best in Australian country music. With 17 categories recognizing work from October 2023 to September 2024, the evening was filled with historic wins and unforgettable performances.
Troy Cassar-Daley dominated the night, taking home five awards, including Male Artist of the Year, Toyota Album of the Year, and Song of the Year for “Some Days.” His total tally of Golden Guitars now stands at an incredible 45, cementing his place as Australia’s most decorated country artist.
Global country superstar Keith Urban added a new accolade to his collection with the prestigious Roll of Renown induction and Top Selling Australian Country Album for HIGH. Reflecting on his journey from Peel Street to global stardom, Urban described the honour as a dream come true.
Max Jackson, last year’s New Talent of the Year, added two more awards to her name, including Female Artist of the Year, while delivering a stunning performance of her winning single, “A Little More Country.”
Local favourite Ashleigh Dallas celebrated another win with Setting Suns crowned Traditional Country Album of the Year, and Casey Barnes’ upbeat album Mayday secured Contemporary Country Album of the Year.
Collaborations shone brightly as The Wolfe Brothers and Kaylee Bell’s “Beer in a Bar” earned Vocal Collaboration of the Year. Meanwhile, bluegrass queen Kristy Cox picked up her seventh Golden Guitar for Let It Burn.
Emerging talent also took centre stage. Lane Pittman, currently on tour with Luke Combs, was named New Talent of the Year, marking an exciting chapter for the former Tamworth local.
The night reflected the heart and talent of country music in Australia, wrapping up one of the busiest and most vibrant festival’s in recent memory.
Rising country music star Felicity Kircher has been named the 45th Toyota Star Maker, following an electrifying Grand Final at the 53rd Tamworth Country Music Festival. Representing Tingalpa, Queensland, Kircher captivated the audience with heartfelt performances of her original songs Dear Rose and Ultimatum, securing her place as one of Australia’s most promising emerging artists.
Kircher, a seasoned performer and multi-instrumentalist, has spent over a decade honing her craft on stages across Australia. From touring with Kasey Chambers to standout appearances at festivals like Gympie Muster and Savannah in the Round, she has solidified her reputation as a powerhouse in contemporary country music. Her recent single, I Am Cry, has been making waves on radio and streaming platforms, further showcasing her versatility and talent.
The competition, held at Toyota Park, featured 10 finalists backed by the renowned Sam Hawksley Allstar Band. Each delivered two songs, but it was Kircher’s unique voice, stage presence, and artistic depth that won over the judges.
Star Maker Coordinator Cheryl Brown praised Kircher’s readiness to embrace the next phase of her career: “Felicity is an inspiring artist who continues to test musical boundaries. We are excited to see her flourish with the support of the Star Maker program.”
As the Toyota Star Maker winner, Kircher receives a prize package worth over $100,000, including 12 months’ use of a Toyota vehicle, fuel cards, and recording opportunities. The Star Maker program has a legacy of propelling its winners into the spotlight, and Kircher’s victory promises an exciting future for the young artist.
Congratulations to Felicity Kircher on this remarkable achievement!
Southwest WA’s very own country singer-songwriter, Dave Kent, is making waves with the announcement of his new single, “Fifteen Minutes to Moora”, and his debut EP, “Nannup to Nashville”. Both projects are now available for pre-save, with the single dropping on January 27, and the EP following closely on January 31 via indie label RTC Records.
Kent’s “Nannup to Nashville” is more than just a collection of tracks; it’s a heartfelt journey through life’s twists and turns, painted with the raw honesty that only someone who’s lived every note can convey. After years on the sidelines, Kent has finally stepped into the spotlight, delivering songs that resonate with dreamers, wanderers, and anyone who’s faced life’s challenges head-on.
Born during a period of upheaval in his life, this EP captures the spirit of Americana while weaving tales of chasing dreams, navigating heartbreak, and rebuilding a life from the ground up. “I hope people enjoy it as much as I enjoy playing them,” Kent shares, highlighting the personal nature of this milestone project.
The standout track, “Fifteen Minutes to Moora”, is a heartfelt anthem that speaks directly to Australia’s Fly-In, Fly-Out (FIFO) workers. With vivid imagery and an evocative narrative, Kent encapsulates the emotional journey of those final moments on the road home after long stretches away. Set against the vast landscapes of Western Australia, the song echoes the timeless sounds of country greats like Ian Moss, Cold Chisel, and Fanny Lumsden.
For fans of authentic storytelling and heartfelt melodies, Kent’s EP promises to be an unforgettable experience. From the serene landscapes of Nannup to the neon lights of Nashville, his music bridges traditional country influences with a distinctly Australian twist.
Where to Catch Dave Kent Live
To celebrate the release of his new music, Dave Kent will be hitting the stage at some of Australia’s top venues, including:
- Sat 18/1 – Riverside Stage, 6:15 pm (TCMF)
- Sun 19/1 – Big Golden Guitar, 11 am (TCMF)
- Sun 19/1 – Toyota Fanzone, 3:30 pm (TCMF)
- Mon 20/1 – JB Hi-Fi Stage, 1 pm (TCMF)
- Sun 2/3 – Froth Craft, Bunbury
- Sat 19/4 – Rocky Ridge, Busselton
How to Support Dave Kent
Pre-save “Fifteen Minutes to Moora” and the digital EP “Nannup to Nashville” at the links below:
Pre-save Fifteen Minutes to Moora
Pre-save Nannup to Nashville Digital EP
Pre-order Nannup to Nashville Signed CD
Don’t miss this rising star as he brings his stories and songs to life, proving that no dream is too distant to chase.
Golden Night in Tamworth: Winners Announced for 53rd Golden Guitar Awards
Felicity Kircher Crowned Toyota Star Maker 2025
