Dolly Parton Stands by Kid Rock Duet on ‘Rockstar’ Amidst Controversial remarks
Dolly Parton addresses controversy over Kid Rock collaboration on 'Rockstar' amidst LGBTQ+ community criticism, shedding light on her decision despite his anti-trans remarks
Dolly Parton and Kid Rock Emma McIntyre/Getty Images; Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images
Country music icon Dolly Parton wants to promote peace, love, and understanding amidst the controversy surrounding Kid Rock's involvement in her upcoming rock album. Parton, 77, expressed her belief in finding innocence and purity in everyone during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. She mentioned her collaboration with Kid Rock on the album before the controversy arose, and when questioned about it, she responded with a message of love and acceptance. Parton emphasized that just because she loves someone doesn't mean she can't also love others, and she chooses not to condemn or criticize.
Parton’s comment about the "controversy" appeared to be in reference to a viral video where Rock, aged 52, can be seen shooting multiple cases of Bud Light beer with a firearm. In the video, he expressed his disapproval of Bud Light and Anheuser-Busch by saying, "F–k Bud Light, and f–k Anheuser-Busch," while flipping off the camera. Rock did not provide an explanation for his actions, but the release of the video coincided with calls for a boycott of Anheuser-Busch, after they collaborated with Dylan Mulvaney, an openly transgender activist and the face behind the "365 Days of Girlhood" TikTok series, for an advertisement.
The inclusion of Rock on Parton's forthcoming album, Rockstar, where they both collaborate on the track "Either Or," received criticism from the LGBTQ+ community due to his previous derogatory remarks about transgender individuals. In response to the backlash, Parton stated to THR, "I had already recorded the song before the controversy arose, but even if it had happened later, I would have still gone ahead with it because he is a talented individual. The song depicts a troublesome character, a cheater and abuser."
"However, I want to make it clear that I love everyone," she continued. "I refrain from criticizing, condemning, or condoning others. Instead, I choose to accept them as they are. Nevertheless, my love for you does not diminish my love for Kid Rock in a spiritual sense."
Earlier in the interview, Parton was questioned about the governor of Tennessee approving a ban on gender-affirming care for transgender youth. The Human Rights Campaign has highlighted that the state has enacted 15 anti-LGBTQ+ laws since 2015. While Parton expressed her desire for everyone to be treated well, she made it clear that she avoids becoming involved in the intricacies of politics.
"I aim to deeply understand the human aspect of it," she elaborated. During the interview, she discussed the church's harsh judgment towards her, labeling her as trash and a whore solely based on her youthful appearance and attire. This experience has in turn cultivated her compassion and reduced her tendency to pass judgment.
Nevertheless, this does not mean that she remains oblivious to the hardships endured by the LGBTQ+ community in recent times. "Within my own immediate family and circle of employees," Parton disclosed to THR, "I have individuals representing a diverse range of identities, including transgender individuals, gays, lesbians, drunks, and drug addicts. I wholeheartedly accept and cherish them all, refraining from any form of condemnation. I witness their immense pain over certain matters and recognize the authenticity of their experiences."
Parton's highly anticipated album, Rockstar, is set to release on Friday, November 17th. This incredible collection consists of 30 tracks, showcasing collaborations with an impressive lineup of musical icons such as Rob Halford, Sting, Debbie Harry, Stevie Nicks, Miley Cyrus, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Sheryl Crow, and the legendary duo of Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, the last two remaining members of The Beatles.
