Richard S. “Kinky” Friedman is an American Texas country singer, songwriter, novelist, humorist, politician, and former columnist for Texas Monthly. He styles himself in the mold of popular American satirists Will Rogers and Mark Twain. Friedman was one of two independent candidates in the 2006 election for the office of governor of Texas. Receiving 12.6 percent of the vote, he placed fourth in the six-person race.

64 Articles

The Culture|
March 31, 2011

My E-piphany

If Tahitian sailors could find Hawaii using only their testicles, I ought to be able to survive the modern world without a computer. But, hell, it looks like I can't.

Politics & Policy|
August 1, 2010

Gov Hunt

As the only man ever to run against both Bill White and Rick Perry, I have a few thoughts on how either one of these fine, upstanding, admirable men could beat the tar out of the other.

Kinky Friedman|
April 30, 2009

Gomer And Me

You’ll never guess how I came to break bread with TV’s best-loved Marine.

Kinky Friedman|
October 31, 2007

Reform Follows Function

When I ran for governor, I saw firsthand everything that was wrong with our state’s political system. That’s why I know how to fix it.

Feature|
August 31, 2007

Getting My Goat

I wanted to help my old pal when he became a Katrina evacuee. I really did. But any houseguest who stays for nearly two years is going to drive you crazy (or, in my case, crazier).

Kinky Friedman|
August 31, 2004

Man About Town

Why do I live where I live? To get away from the Peruvian marching powder—and because my door was ajar.

Kinky Friedman|
April 30, 2004

Let Saigons Be Bygones

Thirty-five years after I refused to let my government send me there, Vietnam is where my kid sister, Marcie, lives. So I finally shipped out.

The Last Roundup|
November 1, 2003

Unhappily Ever After

Once upon a time, there was a writer— it doesn't matter which writer—with talent to burn. Wanna guess how the story ends?

The Last Roundup|
February 1, 2002

Don Imus Has Heart

In New Mexico--far west Texas to you and me--my old friend the radio jock runs a ranch for kids with cancer. And you thought he was all talk.

Magazine Latest