Dolly Parton reluctantly joins rock Hall of Fame

Country music icon Dolly Parton was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on Wednesday even though she did not want the honour, calling herself unworthy of it.

Parton was among an eclectic group of new inductees that include the rapper Eminem, singer Harry Belafonte, rocker Pat Benatar, the British band Duran Duran and the pop singer, songwriter and producer Lionel Richie, among others.

Parton, known for such hits as "Islands in the Stream" and "Jolene" asked last month that her name be withdrawn from consideration.

When the hall of fame rejected her rejection, in part because voting was already under way, Parton eventually relented.

The hall of fame said she was much more than a country star.

"With her trailblazing songwriting career, distinctive voice, campy glamour, business savvy and humanitarian work, Dolly Parton is a beloved icon who transcends the genre she transformed forever," the organization said on its website as it announced the new members.

Other new inductees announced on Wednesday include Carly Simon, the Eurythmics, and Judas Priest.