Kinky Friedman: Man, Musician, Comedian, Politician
When Kinky Friedman isn’t busy performing with his band “The Texas Jew Boys”, working on his Utopia Rescue Ranch (a shelter for dogs), or campaigning for Governor of Texas for the 2010 election, he goes around the country spreading his word, a word that some might call offensive, but others humorous, but no matter what one calls it, it’s hard to ignore.
I was lucky enough to be present last Friday, November 2, 2007, when Kinky Friedman graced East Carolina University with his presence. With a large cigar in his mouth, a blank stare on his face, and an outfit that would be fit for Johnny Cash, Friedman made his way to the podium with applause from the audience. He was humorously introduced by his friend, “Jew ford.”
Friedman spoke diligently on his stance in politics, and his passion on the topic could not be denied. It was anything but sugar coated. One of his opening statements on politics was “The longer you’re in, the worse you get” which was followed by his explanation of the word “politics” broken down into syllables: “poli, meaning more than one, and tics, meaning blood suckers.” He also commented on current president George W. Bush, calling him “a good man trapped in a republican’s body.”
Friedman also took time to read an excerpt from his latest novel, “You Can Lead a Politician to Water, But You Can’t Make Him Think,” based on his late, long time friend and comedian Molly Ivans. He also spoke briefly about his cigar company, tagging the slogan “cigarettes bad, cigars good.” He made it clear that this slogan was directed towards kids as well. Which some might find appalling, but others may find insightful.
The audience seemed to highly agree with these statements, many of them receiving applause and laughter. Throughout the presentation, the audience was kept entertained by these thoughts and ideas. It was obvious that many people in the audience were very down to earth and quite possibly shared the same stance on many political ideas as most Americans would. Friedman commented some on the 2008 Presidential election, commenting that Stephen Colbert was the only exception to the same, cliché panel of nominees, and in fact, America’s best hope.
Kinky had an unorthodox and somewhat odd way of speaking to his audience, however he quite clearly made his point on his political stance and why he feels the way he does. He was anything but the “normal” political figure. His being a compassionate, smart and funny individual presented enough shock value in itself to keep the audiences attention. His presentation was insightful, as well as humorous. He was able to connect to the audience by being himself; just a good ole’ Texas boy with a lot on his mind.
Filed under: HumorFest Reports