Dolly Parton—why did the country singer decline Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nomination?

Dolly Parton has turned down a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nomination, much to the surprise—and admiration—of her adoring fans. 

The US country singer decided to "respectfully bow out" of the running for the prestigious accolade on Monday, after being nominated earlier this year. The withdrawal comes just a week after Dolly Parton’s book with James Patterson, Run, Rose, Run, was released in collaboration with her forty-eighth solo studio album of the same name. 

Taking to Twitter to explain her decision yesterday, Dolly said that she was "flattered and grateful" but did "not feel that I have earned the right" to receive the nod from the iconic Ohio museum.  

"I do hope that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame will understand and be willing to consider me again—if I’m ever worthy," she said. "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!" 

Dolly was nominated for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's 2022 class against 17 other musicians, including Beck, Kate Bush, Lionel Richie, Dionne Warwick, Eminem, and Duran Duran. Last year's inductees included Tina Turner, Carole King, The Go-Go’s, Jay-Z, Foo Fighters, and Todd Rundgren.

Dolly added that her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, is a "rock'n'roll freak" and has "always encouraged" her to release her own take of the popular US musical genre at some point. She concluded the message with good luck wishes to the remaining nominees, a thank you note, and of course, her butterfly-punctuated signature. 

Dolly's rejection of the nomination has caused quite the stir amongst her fans, with many praising the Grammy-winner for her humble response to the nod. 

"The world desperately needs more people like Dolly," one follower tweeted, while another hailed her as a 'class act' for giving her fellow artists a better chance at winning. 

Others disagreed with her decision to reject the nomination, arguing that Dolly deserved her place in the category. 

"The Rock Hall of Fame is not hardcore rock and reflects many genres, and it feels like country would benefit greatly from your inclusion. Very magnanimous of you," one person wrote. 

"Dolly, please reconsider," another disappointed fan said. "You are a person whose influence crosses many genres. Your contribution to music is being honored here. It has been an honor voting for you daily. As I feel you more than deserve the honor."

The Rock Hall has yet to comment publicly on Dolly's statement, and as of today, (15 March), her biography is still visible on the list of nominees on its website.