Earlier this year, It was reported that the ballot for this year’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominees had been announced, and contained such heavy names as NWOBHM forefathers Judas Priest, rap-rock rebels Rage Against The Machine, and country legend and children’s activist Dolly Parton. But, Dolly announced she was stepping down from the ballot, citing that she wasn’t a rock musician (though she’d someday like to be) and therefore didn’t qualify. Now, Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider has publicly sung Dolly’s praises for making room for more traditional rock artists to get on the ballot.

For those of you who missed it, Dolly posted the following message to her social media:

“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 out.

“I do hope that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame will understand and be willing to consider me again – if I’m ever worthy. 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’ roll freak, and has always encouraged me to do one. I wish all of the nominees good luck and thank you again for the compliment. Rock on!”

This is a class act! Dolly’s removal from the ballot pops Judas Priest into fifth place in the fan poll, making them more likely to enter the Hall (the Hall of Fame, that is, Judas Priest already have a wing dedicated to them in metal’s The Hall).

Dee Snider took this to  his own Twitter and sang Dolly’s praises:

Dolly’s Facebook Post: