Madison Kwiecinski 

News Editor 

Mvl5945@psu.edu 

Dolly Parton recently issued a tweet saying she does not feel she has “earned the right” to be considered for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, despite the fact that her nomination has already been issued and will be voted on. 

“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,” she wrote on twitter, continuing on to add, “I do hope that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame will understand and be willing to consider me again – If I’m ever worthy.” 

Parton had the nobelist intentions trying to reject her nomination in an effort to avoid splitting votes for an honor she does not believe she meets the qualifications for. However, those nominated alongside Parton for the 2022 inductions include 16 other artists from a variety of genres, including singer Lionel Richie, rapper Eminem, A Tribe Called Quest, Duran Duran, and many others. Parton may not fit the typical definition of Rock & Roll, but the hall includes people from a variety of musical backgrounds who have had a large impact on music. 

Although Parton requested removal from consideration, it is likely she could still be selected for this year’s indications, as ballots had already gone out to fans. The fan ballot vote has already been sent out, and after fans vote for their favorite artists the pool of nominees will be further narrowed down by artists, historians, and music industry professionals. 

Paton has spoken out about the fact that her husband, Carl Dean, “is a total rock ‘n’ roll freak” and that he has always encouraged her to make a rock ‘n’ roll album. Parton has made the idea of an upcoming album in that genre a realistic possibility, even teasing the idea of putting out an album in that realm next year. 

In an interview with the Billboard, Parton stated, “”I’m not expecting that I’ll get in. But if I do, I’ll immediately, next year, have to put out a great rock and roll album – which I’ve wanted to do for years, Like a Linda Ronstadt  or Heart kind of thing.” 

Parton has a history of nobly declining awards and recognition she just does not believe herself to have truly earned. In 2021, Dolly Parton asked Tennessee lawmakers to table a bill that would have created a statue in her likeness on State Capitol grounds. Also, last year during a “Today” show interview, Parton revealed she had to decline the Presidential Medal of Freedom twice from former President Donald Trump. 

The newest class of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees will be announced in May. It is still unclear whether Parton has a shot at being inducted after requesting her removal, but regardless, fans likely have a new rock and roll album to look forward to within the next year.