Metal Guitarist, AJ Rebollo, Quits After Label Releases “Jolene” Cover Without Dolly Parton

The metal band Bad Wolves has encountered internal upheaval after their label, Better Noise Music, released a cover of Dolly Parton's classic "Jolene" without the participation of Parton herself, leading to guitarist AJ Rebollo's departure from the group. This decision unfolded amid sensitive circumstances following Parton's passing in late August 2023.

Bad Wolves had initially recorded their rendition of "Jolene" with the intention of featuring Dolly Parton on the track. Parton reportedly reviewed the demo, expressing enthusiasm and plans to contribute vocals. However, her unexpected death on August 25 at age 80 left the recording incomplete and placed the band and label in a delicate position.

Concerned about public perception and respecting Parton's legacy, the band explicitly instructed Better Noise Music not to release the unfinished track. They feared the release might be interpreted as exploiting her death for commercial gain. Despite these objections, the label proceeded with unveiling the cover on August 31, stating that proceeds from the release would benefit the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a charitable organization supported by Parton.

Parton's management defended the release, indicating that the singer had approved the collaboration weeks before her passing. They framed the tribute as aligned with Parton's values, emphasizing the philanthropic intent behind the distribution.

Within the band, tensions escalated. AJ Rebollo publicly expressed his disapproval of the label's decision and broader concerns about creative control. He cited persistent interference from the label in band affairs and the negative impact on band members, including harassment linked to decisions beyond their control. Rebollo characterized the "Jolene" release as the tipping point in a series of disputes, ultimately concluding that he could no longer ethically remain part of Bad Wolves under these conditions.

Rebollo acknowledged the charitable donation as a positive aspect but maintained that the release itself was ill-advised. His statement conveyed apprehension about the personal risks of leaving the band, especially without another musical opportunity secured, highlighting the gravity of his decision.

The controversy surrounding "Jolene" is not the first time a Bad Wolves cover has been shadowed by tragedy. Their acclaimed 2018 version of The Cranberries' "Zombie" was intended as a duet with the late Dolores O’Riordan, who died on the day she was scheduled to record vocals, leaving the song incomplete but widely recognized.

The impetus for covering "Jolene" also connects to the band's evolving lineup. Founding drummer John Boecklin noted that new lead vocalist Sara "Killboy" Skinner had been performing her own versions of "Jolene," prompting the band to develop their metal adaptation for their upcoming album.

The label's involvement included sending the demo to Parton's management, who then shared it with Parton. After her approval, the band supplied vocal stems to her engineers before her death, underscoring that the collaboration was underway and sanctioned prior to the tragedy.

As the music community reflects on the release, the dispute highlights ongoing tensions between artistic intent, label authority, and the challenges of navigating posthumous collaborations. Details surrounding further band developments remain limited as Bad Wolves confront this pivotal moment.