Dionne Warwick Discusses Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Nomination: 'I'm Not A Rock & Roller!'
By Afouda Bamidele on March 16, 2022 at 2:00 PM EDT
Dionne Warwick is opening up about her recent nomination to be inducted into the prestigious Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
On February 2, the iconic singer was named among the 17 legendary acts — such as Dolly Parton, Lionel Richie, Judas Priest — shortlisted for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for the class of 2022.
Now, more than a month after the nomination, Warwick is discussing how she truly feels about the nod and her thoughts on the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Dionne Warwick Dismissed Her Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Nomination
On Sunday, March 13, the “Heartbreaker” songstress appeared on an episode of Bravo’s “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen.”
During a fun segment called ‘Does Dionne Give A D**n,” the legendary artist was asked about her nomination into the hall of fame.
Warwick was joined by comedian Chris Redd and host Cohen would ask a couple of questions. Redd would guess Warwick’s answer to such questions before the singer clarifies if he is wrong or right.
When asked by Cohen if “Dionne gives a d**n about her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of fame, Reed excitedly answered yes.
However, to the audience’s surprise, Warwick answered no, while trying so hard to tone down her laughter. “No, I don’t,” she declared.
When asked by Cohen if she really didn’t give a d**n about the nomination, the “Solid Gold” star simply said, “I’m not a Rock & Roller.”
Going into detail about her thought pattern, the 81-year-old said, “I’ve been interviewed on this subject many times. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as I grew to know it many, many years ago was specifically for rock and roll acts.”
She continued, explaining that the nomination should be given specifically to Rock & Rollers such as Tina Turner.
“[Tina Turner] should have been inducted ages ago. I feel now, especially when I hear that Dolly Parton being nominated which I’m thrilled for her about, they should rename the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and call it The Music Hall of Fame,” Warwick stated.
She believes changing the name would make it easier to bring in so many other genres.
Dolly Parton Withdraw Nomination From Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame
Warwick’s interview about the hall of fame nomination came just a day before country music icon Parton rejected her own Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nomination.
As The Blast reported, Parton shocked fans on Monday when she announced she would be withdrawing her nomination seemingly because of her roots as a country artist and not a Rock & Roller.
The “Coat Of Many Colors” singer took to Twitter to release a statement explaining her decision. She began, “Dolly here! Even though I am extremely flattered and grateful to be nominated for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, I don’t feel that I have earned that right. I really do not want votes to be split because of me, so I must respectfully bow about.”
The “Run, Rose, Run” author continued, sharing her desire that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame understands her decision and would be willing to consider her in the future if she’s “ever worthy.”
However, she shared that the nomination sparked something in her. “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! My husband is a total rock ‘n’ freak, and has always encouraged me to do one,” she confessed.
Parton concluded, sending good luck to all the nominees before signing out, “Rock On!”
Fans Have Mixed Reactions To Dolly’s Withdrawal
Following Parton’s announcement, fans took to social media to share their thoughts. Many netizens praised the iconic singer for her humble decision to step away.
One fan wrote, “Among the many reasons @DollyParton is so loved by so many people including myself and revered as the queen of country forever.”
Another user added, “I think we all know that Dolly, as a songwriter, artist, and performer, deserves to be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, but we also know that she is a brilliant creator who crafts her image and legacy on her own terms. The Queen has spoken.”
Other fans believed Parton should reconsider her withdrawal as she is more than worthy to be inducted. This fan wrote, Dolly, please reconsider. 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 & Roll Hall of Fame is yet to respond to Parton’s withdrawal.
