Dolly Parton will no longer be considered for this year’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. The country legend shared a statement Monday morning (March 14), explaining that she “must respectfully bow out” because she doesn’t feel that I have earned that right.“
The “9 To 5” singer, however, reiterated that she would be open to releasing a rock album someday. She told Billboard earlier this year that “I've never thought of myself as being rock 'n' roll in any sense of the word… I'm not expecting that I'll get in. But if I do, I'll immediately, next year, have to put out a great rock 'n' roll album…” Parton said in her new statement that a rock album is a longtime goal of hers, particularly with the encouragement of her husband, Carl Dean, a “total rock ’n’ roll freak.” See Parton’s full statement here:
“Dolly here! 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.
“I do hope that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame will understand and be willing to consider me again — if I’m ever worthy. 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. Rock on!”
Parton was one of several artists on the ballot for the first time when the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame announced the list of nominees for the 2022 induction in February. Other first-time nominees included Beck, Eminem, Duran Duran, Lionel Richie, Carly Simon, and A Tribe Called Quest. Other nominees include Pat Benatar, Kate Bush, DEVO, Duran Duran, Eurythmics, Judas Priest, Fela Kuti, MC5, New York Dolls, Rage Against The Machine, and Dionne Warwick. Inductees will be announced in May, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2022 induction ceremony will be held this fall. See Parton’s announcement here: