Dolly Parton Can’t Quit Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nomination
Her rejection is being rejected.
Earlier this week, country legend Dolly Parton shocked fans with a stunning announcement — she would politely decline her nomination as a potential Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member. But now, the Hall is saying ‘hold up.’
Releasing a statement of their own, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation says they respect Parton’s wishes, but she can’t just opt out of her nomination.
“All of us in the music community have seen Dolly Parton’s thoughtful note expressing her feeling that she has not earned the right to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame,” the Hall of Fame replied. “In addition to her incredible talent as an artist, her humility is another reason Dolly is a beloved icon by millions of fans around the world.
“From its inception, Rock & Roll has had deep roots in Rhythm & Blues and Country music. It is not defined by any one genre, rather a sound that moves youth culture. Dolly Parton’s music impacted a generation of young fans and influenced countless artists that followed. Her nomination to be considered for induction into to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame followed the same process as all other artists who have been considered.
“Dolly’s nomination, along with the other 16 artists for the class of 2022, was sent out earlier this month to our 1,200 general ballot voters, the majority of whom are artists themselves, for consideration for induction at our ceremony.
“We are in awe of Dolly’s brilliant talent and pioneering spirit and are proud to have nominated her for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.”
The situation recalls a similar one with Garth Brooks and the Country Music Association, after he was nominated for Entertainer of the Year at the 2020 CMA Awards. Brooks announced wishes to withdraw his name from the running, echoing Parton to say he didn’t deserve it. The CMA also said Brooks couldn’t just back out, and in the end, Eric Church won the award.
As for Parton, her name was never removed from the ballot, and according to the fan voting portion of the process (which is live here), it appears she may be chosen as a new member. Parton is currently in fourth place, and “The top five artists, as selected by the public, will comprise a ‘fans’ ballot’ that will be tallied along with the other ballots to choose the 2022 inductees.”
