Where does one begin when attempting to describe the many career paths followed by one Richard S. “Kinky” Friedman? As an author he’s achieved literary success with his series of novels portraying himself as a somewhat fictional private eye, knocking back Scotch while pounding the pavement for clues.

He’s also a political commentator who writes a somewhat regular column for Texas Monthly. Other past Kinky endeavors include running as an independent for Texas governor in 2006, saying he would fight for the “dewussification” of Texas if elected and introducing slogans such as “How Hard Could It Be?” and “My Governor Is A Jewish Cowboy” to the Lone Star State’s political heritage.

He also runs an online stogie shop – Kinky Friedman Cigars – featuring such various signature smokes such as “The Governor,” “Kinkycristo,” “Utopian” and “Texas Jewboy” – a reference to his second band – Kinky Friedman & The Texas Jewboys.

But it all began with music. During the 1970s Friedman made a name for himself with little ditties like “Sold American,” “They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore” and his ode to nostril evacuation, “Ol Ben Lucas” (which featured Eric Clapton on dobro).

He also occupies the rather dubious position of being the only music artist to tape an “Austin City Limits” program that was held from broadcast, presumably because he acted too much like, well, himself. However, these days you can buy that particular episode on DVD.

Friedman will be joined by two former members of the Texas Jewboys – Little Jewford and Washington Ratso – on his first west coast run in nearly 20 years.

The “Go West Young Kinky” tour begins in Vancouver, at the Biltmore Cabaret July 26 before heading down to the coast to play Seattle at the Triple Door July 27; Portland at the Roseland Theatre July 28; San Francisco at Great American Music Hall July 30; Santa Monica at McCabe’s July 31; Solana Beach near San Diego at Belly Up Aug. 1; Bakersfield at Fishlips Aug. 3 and Santa Cruz at Moe’s Alley Aug. 4. Last stop is Sebastopol, Calif., at North Bay Live At Studio E Aug. 5.

For more information about the “Go West Young Kinky” tour, click here for Kinky Friedman’s website/cigar store.