Dolly Parton is still on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 2022 nominations list despite the legendary country singer asking to be removed because she hasn’t “earned that right”.
Posted at 3:59 p.m.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation said in a statement Thursday that, in fact, it is up to voting members to determine whether Dolly Parton will be inducted.
“Dolly’s (Parton) recommendation, along with those of the 16 others nominated for the Class of 2022, was sent earlier this month to our 1,200 general ballot voters, the majority of whom are artists themselves, to be considered for induction at our ceremony,” the organization said.
On Monday, Dolly Parton took to social media to “respectfully step down” from the process, saying she didn’t want to take votes from other candidates. Dolly Parton had no immediate comment on the Hall of Fame’s decision.
Dolly Parton was named to the shortlist last month, alongside fellow first-time nominees Eminem, Lionel Richie, Duran Duran and A Tribe Called Quest.
Other artists and bands being considered for induction include Rage Against the Machine, Pat Benatar, Dionne Warwick, Carly Simon, Judas Priest, Beck, Kate Bush, DEVO, Eurythmics, Fela Kuti, MC5 and the New York Dolls.
Dolly Parton is mostly associated with country music and is in the Country Hall of Fame, but she performed songs with a rock edge. Artists who have made both Rock and Roll and Country Halls of Fame include Brenda Lee, Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, Hank Williams and the Everly Brothers.
The Foundation said Thursday there is plenty of room in the Hall of Fame for artists who aren’t pure rockers.
“Since its inception, rock ‘n’ roll has had deep roots in rhythm & blues and country music. He is not defined by any particular genre, but rather by a sound that rocks youth culture, the statement said. We are in awe of the brilliant talent and trailblazing spirit of Dolly (Parton) and are proud to have nominated her for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. »