Dolly Parton has issued a statement requesting the withdrawal of her nomination to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Parton shared via social media, “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 added, “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. Rock on!”

Parton’s decision is a first for the Rock Hall, with Future Rock Legends noting, “This is an unprecedented situation for the Rock Hall… Ballots are already in voters’ hands (and many already returned). Will they honor her wishes and remove her from the ballot, or will they move ahead anyway? Do they give voters a chance to change their selections?”

As previously reported, the 2022 inductees will be announced in May. As with previous years, the public has the opportunity to voice their choice via the Fan Vote at RockHall.com through April 30. Fans are allowed to vote once per day during the Fan Vote period. Visitors of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum in Cleveland will also have the opportunity to vote in person. The “Fans’ Ballot” will be comprised of the top five artists from the fan vote and will be counted among the other ballots filled out by various artists, historians, and music industry professionals.

 

GALLERY: 2022 Rock Hall Nominees