Dolly Parton has announced that she is withdrawing from this year’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominations, saying she “did not deserve this right.”
The music icon, who was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, explained her decision in a statement posted to her official social media pages on Monday, noting that she does not want to take away votes from the remaining nominees.
“Despite the fact that I am extremely honored and grateful for the nomination into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, I do not feel that I deserve this right. I really don’t want to be divided over me so I have to respectfully bow out,” she wrote.
Other artists inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame include Brenda Lee, Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, Hank Williams and the Everly Brothers.
Parton was shortlisted by Rock Hall last month along with fellow first-time nominees Eminem, Lionel Richie, Duran Duran and A Tribe Called Quest.
The Cleveland-based institution announced that 17 artists and bands are being considered for induction, including Rage Against the Machine, Pat Benatar, Dionne Warwick, Carly Simon, Judas Priest and Beck.
“Despite the fact that I am extremely honored and grateful for the nomination into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, I do not feel that I deserve this right. I really don’t want to be divided over me so I have to respectfully bow out,” Parton wrote on social media. Jason Kempin/Getty Images
Other nominees are Kate Bush, DEVO, Eurythmics, Fela Kuti, MC5 and New York Dolls.
“I really hope the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame understands me and is willing to consider me again – if I’m ever worthy,” Parton’s statement continues.
“However, it has inspired me to put out a hopefully great rock ‘n’ roll album sometime in the future, which is what I’ve always wanted! My husband is a true rock ‘n’ roll fan and he has always encouraged me to do it.”
“I wish all the nominees the best of luck and thank you again for the compliment,” Parton concludes. “Swing!”