Bad Wolves guitarist AJ Rebollo quits band over Dolly Parton cover

The heavy metal band Bad Wolves has released a cover of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” a move that has caused significant internal friction and led to the departure of guitarist AJ Rebollo. Rebollo announced his exit on August 28, stating that the label’s decision to proceed with the release despite the band’s opposition was the “final nail in the coffin.” He expressed concerns that releasing the track so soon after Parton’s death on August 25 could be perceived as capitalizing on her passing.

Bad Wolves founder John Boecklin and Parton’s manager, Danny Nozell, clarified that the collaboration had been planned well before her death. Parton had reportedly heard the demo, approved it, and was preparing to record her own vocals for the track. Following her passing, the label, Better Noise Music, decided to move forward with the release as a tribute, with all proceeds intended to benefit the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

While the label maintains the release aligns with the wishes of Parton’s team, Rebollo cited the mental toll of decisions made by the label without the band's consent as a primary reason for his departure.