Country icon Dolly Parton has announced she is withdrawing from this year’s nominations for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, saying she hasn’t “earned that right.”
Parton who was elected into the Country Music Hall of Fame explained her decision in a statement posted on her socials on Monday, citing she did not want to take votes away from the remaining nominees.
The 76-year-old star wrote: “Even though I am extremely flattered and grateful to be nominated for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, I don’t feel that I have earned that right. I really do not want votes to be split because of me, so I must respectfully bow out,”
Last month Parton was named on the Rock Hall shortlist, alongside fellow first-timers Eminem, Lionel Richie, Duran Duran, and A Tribe Called Quest.
Previous artists that have made Rock Hall and Country Hall of Fame include Brenda Lee, Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, Hank Williams, and the Everly Brothers.
— Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) March 14, 2022
“I do hope that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame will understand and be willing to consider me again — if I’m ever worthy,” Parton’s statement continues.
“This has however inspired me to put out a hopefully great rock ‘n’ roll album at some point in the future, which I have always wanted to do! My husband is a total rock ‘n’ roll freak, and has always encouraged me to do one.”
“I wish all of the nominees good luck and thank you again for the compliment,” Parton concludes. “Rock on!”
We think you're more than worthy, Dolly Parton!
