The love for Dolly Parton is just too deep.
Even after the 76-year-old country queen took herself out of being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in March – “I do not feel I deserve that right,” she said in an Instagram post – Voters thought that she was more than “worthy” of a seat at the table for immortal music. After the rock hall did not accept Parton’s withdrawal – partly because the voting was well underway – the “I Will Always Love You” singer ended up saying “I’ll accept gracefully” and will join such country legends as Johnny Cash, Chet Atkins and Hank Williams in RRHOF when the 2022 inauguration ceremony kicks off in November.
Also Eminem, Lionel Richie, Duran Duran, Eurythmics, Carly Simon and New York native Pat Benatar coming to this year’s eclectic class. While “Love Is a Battlefield” belts have been eligible for induction since 2004, she did not receive her first nomination until 2020, but justice was finally served this year for one of the greatest female rockers of the 80s, who was the epitome of the very essence of the genre.
Justified even longer than Benatar – since 1997 – Simon is another female artist who was late for recognition. The 76-year-old “You’re So Vain” singer finally made it into the predominantly white boys’ club after her first nomination.
Also in his first nomination is pop superstar Richie from the 80s, who probably enjoyed his more funky work with his band Commodores. And the 72-year-old “American Idol” judge is the only color artist enrolled this year, while Dionne Warwick, Fela Kuti and A Tribe Called Quest were bypassed.
But Eminem will represent hip-hop at the inauguration ceremony in 2022, as the 49-year-old “Lose Yourself” rapper won voters at his first nomination.
Meanwhile, iconic 80s actor Duran Duran – who topped the fan poll – and Eurythmics both managed their contemporary Devo and Kate Bush. Eurythmics is probably the biggest surprise, but taking into account Annie Lennox’s solo work undoubtedly gave the “Here Comes the Rain Again” duo a boost.
And although Judas Priest was not inducted into the performer category, the British heavy metal band will receive the Musical Excellence Award when the inauguration ceremony takes place on November 5 at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.