Dolly Parton Removes Name from Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Ballot

Dolly Parton has removed herself from the ballot for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, she announced in a statement today (March 14).

“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,” she wrote.

She continued: “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. Good luck!”

Parton has declined other honors before, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Still in contention for the Rock Hall are artists Duran Duran, Pat Benatar, Eminem, Eurythmics, Beck, Devo, Kate Bush, Judas Priest, Lionel Richie, Carly Simon, A Tribe Called Quest, Dionne Warwick, MC5, The New York Dolls, Rage Against the Machine and Fela Kuti.