Author, politician, singer/songwriter, Friedman has had his hands in so many pies that he’s become something of rabble-rousing Texas renaissance man. During the ‘80s he gained fame as an author of a string of detective novels, some of which he starred in. He also has a deal to co-author a book with his buddy Billy Bob Thornton.

People are also creating works about Friedman. The play “Becoming Kinky… The World According To Kinky Friedman” stars Jesse Dayton and was written by Ted Swindley who created “Always…Patsy Cline.”

Then there’s that run for governor of Texas where The Kinkster utilized campaign slogans such as “How Hard Could It Be?” and “Why The Hell Not?” He didn’t win, but he did make the race more interesting.

But it all started with the music with songs like “Sold American” “They Ain’t Making Jews Like Jesus Anymore,” “Ol’ Ben Lucas” and “Asshole From El Paso.” With two tribute albums already dedicated to Friedman’s music, his longtime Texas friend Willie Nelson is planning a CD filled with Friedman’s tunes.

The “Springtime For Kinky” tour begins in Kansas City at Knuckleheads April 27. Other locations include Little Rock at Juanita’s April 28; Newport, Ky., at Southgate House May 1; Nashville at 3rd & Lindsley May 2; Cleveland at Wilbert’s May 3; Milwaukee at Shank Hall May 5; Chicago at Fitzgerald’s May 7; New York at the Highline Theatre May 9 and Alexandria, Va., at The Birchmere May 13. Last stop is Woodstock, N.Y., where he’ll play Levon Helm’s Midnight Ramble May 14.

Performing primarily solo, Friedman will be promoting his latest two books – “What Would Kinky Do?” and “Heroes Of A Texas Childhood” – and will do book signings at each show. For more information, visit KinkyFriedman.com.