Dolly Parton, Eminem, and Richie are inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Eminem, Lionel Richie, Carly Simon, Eurythmics, Duran Duran, and Pat Benatar have all been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, joining Dolly Parton, who first refused the accolade.
The honorees, who were chosen by over 1,000 artists, historians, and music industry professionals, “have had a tremendous impact on the sound of young culture and helped change the course of rock ‘n’ roll,” according to John Sykes, the Rock Hall’s chairman.
Parton had earlier expressed her desire to “respectfully bow out” of the process on social media, stating that she did not want to “steal votes away from the other nominees” and that she had not “earned that right.” The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation responded by stating that votes had already been mailed out and that it was up to the voters to decide whether or not Parton should be inducted. Later, Parton stated that she would accept induction.
“A living legend and a model of female empowerment,” the hall said in its citation, adding that “her crossover breakthrough increased the audience for country music and expanded the horizons for countless musicians who followed.”
Parton expressed her gratitude to the voters on social media after the news, stating she was “proud and humbled,” promising to work hard “to live up to the honour,” and adding, “Of course I will accept it gracefully.”
Artists must have released their debut record 25 years prior to induction to be eligible. On their first try, Parton, Richie, Simon, and Duran Duran were chosen. This year, more than 25 years after being eligible, Simon was a first-time nominee. Eminem is the tenth hip-hop artist to be elected into the Hall of Fame, having made the cut on his first ballot.
Former Commodores member Richie, whose solo career includes pop favourites like “Endless Love,” “All Night Long,” and “Hello,” said being inducted to the hall is “an tremendous honour.” “Congratulations to all of my fellow 2022 inductees!” he wrote on Instagram, thanking voters and followers.
Judas Priest and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis will get the prize for musical excellence, while Harry Belafonte and Elizabeth Cotten will receive the Early Influence Award, according to the venue.
A Tribe Called Quest, Rage Against the Machine, Dionne Warwick, Beck, Kate Bush, DEVO, Fela Kuti, MC5, and the New York Dolls were among the musicians and groups who were not included into the performance category this year.
Parton is best known for her country music and is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, although she has also sung rock tunes. Brenda Lee, Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, Hank Williams, and the Everly Brothers are among the artists who have been inducted into both the Rock and Country Halls of Fame.