It’s About Time: Dolly Parton Is Poised to Take Her Rightful Spot in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
We all know Dolly Parton is a legend, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is finally acknowledging her talents by including her in their latest class of nominees! The singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist (just to name a few of her talents) is part of an eclectic class that could be honored at the ceremony later this year.
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducts a class of iconic musicians every year from a ballot of nominees. This year, Dolly Parton is finally on the ballot for the first time, along with rapper Eminem, crooner Lionel Richie, hit pop band Duran Duran, and singer-songwriter Carly Simon.
A pool of over 1,000 artists, historians, journalists, and members of the music industry will select this year’s class. They take into account factors like the artists’ musical influence on others, the length and depth of their career, and more. That clearly describes Parton perfectly. What song hasn’t been more covered than “Jolene”? Or “I Will Always Love You”? She’s also inspired generations of female country singers to take the world by storm. But those aren’t the only reasons she deserves this honor.
Why Dolly Parton Should Join the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Parton, who famously gets up very early in the morning, got her start in the business when she was a child, appearing on radio stations by the time she was 10. She sang at the Grand Ole Opry when she was 13, where she first met iconic country singer Johnny Cash. Her career continued to grow, and she was writing hit songs for singer like Hank Williams Jr. right out of high school. The singer finally made it big in country music after she joined The Porter Wagoner Show in 1967, where she first performed her signature song “Jolene” in 1973. The rest of her career — including more hit songs, iconic movies like 9 to 5, and even her own theme park, Dollywood — speaks for itself.
Speaking of the hit song, ever heard the tale that Parton wrote both “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You” on the same day? Well, it’s true! And both hit songs demonstrate her incredible range in songwriting, from a heartbreaking ballad about letting a love go to a catchy-but-striking plea begging the other woman not to take him. The fact that she wrote two powerhouse songs on the same day more than proves her talent.
The top vote-getters will be announced in May, but we have a feeling Parton won’t have any trouble making the class. After all, her decades long career full of hits proves anything voters need to know. But in case Parton needs a little boost, you can vote for her to join the class! Head to vote.rockhall.com to cast your very own ballot.
We’re pretty sure we’ll be seeing Dolly Parton inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame very soon.
