Photo: Getty Images
Dolly Parton will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, President & CEO Greg Harris announced from the venue in Cleveland, Ohio on Wednesday morning (May 4).
Parton has recently confirmed that she would “accept gracefully” if she were inducted into the Hall of Fame, though she previously tried to withdraw her name from consideration. The “9 To 5” icon — who expressed that the induction could inspire her to record a rock album — expressed doubt that she deserved to be inducted into the Hall of Fame among rock artists. She said at that time that although she is “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.” Parton added that she hoped the Rock Hall would understand and would consider her again “if I’m ever worthy.”
Though some applauded her statement, the Rock Hall responded to that statement confirming that Parton would still be considered. The Rock Hall noted in its March response that rock & roll “has had deep roots in Rhythm & Blues and Country music” since its inception. “Dolly Parton’s music impacted a generation of young fans and influenced countless artists that followed. Her nomination to be considered for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame followed the same process as all other artists who have been considered.”
Parton shared a statement hours later, reading: “I am honored and humbled by the fact that I have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Of course I will accept it gracefully. Thanks to everyone that voted for me and to everyone at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I will continue to work hard and try to live up to the honor.” She signed the statement, “Love, Dolly,” and it prompted supportive messages from her followers within the first few minutes of its publication.
Others inducted into the Class of 2022 Performer Category include Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, Duran Duran, Eminem, Eurythmics, Lionel Richie and Carly Simon; the Musical Excellence Award inductees include Judas Priest and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis; the Ahmet Ertegun Award inductees are Allen Grubman, Jimmy Iovine, Sylvia Robinson; the Early Influence Award inductees are Elizabeth Cotten and Harry Belafonte.
“This diverse group of inductees each had a profound impact on the sound of youth culture and helped change the course of rock & roll,” said John Sykes, Chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. “Their music moved generations and influenced so many artists that followed.”
The 37th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is set for Saturday, November 5 at Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California, the Rock Hall announced Wednesday morning.
Watch the announcement here: