Dolly Parton has removed herself from consideration as a 2022 nominee for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The nomination was Parton’s first for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, who was nominated alongside artists including Beck, Devo, Kate Bush, Eminem, Rage Against the Machine, Judas Priest, Carly Simon and others. Country artists who have previously been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame include Chet Atkins, Johnny Cash, Jimmie Rodgers and more.
Parton posted on social media Monday, March 14th, saying in a statement: “Even though I’m extremely flattered and grateful to be nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, I don’t feel that I have earned that right. I really do not want votes split because of me, so I must respectfully bow out. I do hope the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame will understand and will 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!”
Parton also noted that her husband Carl Dean is a rock n’ roll fan, saying, “He always encouraged me to do one,” and she ended her post, saying: “I wish all of the nominees good luck and thank you again for the compliment. Rock on!”
Parton has bowed out of other honors and awards; just last year, she requested that Tennessee lawmakers not consider a bill that would allow a statue of the legendary singer-songwriter to be built on the grounds of the state Capitol. Parton also revealed that she was twice offered the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and had to turn down the offer both times — first because her husband was sick, and the second time she was not able to travel due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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