Bad Wolves guitarist AJ Rebollo has announced his departure from the multi-platinum alternative metal outfit, citing sharp creative differences with their record label, Better Noise Music, over a Dolly Parton cover. Rebollo, who joined the band as a touring member in 2023, revealed his exit in a candid social media statement, pointing to recurring friction regarding corporate oversight and industry pressures.
AJ Rebollo Cites Label Pressure Over Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” Cover
The immediate catalyst for Rebollo’s exit centers on the band’s recorded cover of Dolly Parton’s classic track “Jolene,” according to his public statement. Parton was originally scheduled to record guest vocals for the heavy metal rendition, but she was unable to complete the collaboration prior to her death following a battle with cancer, as reported by outlets covering the announcement.
Following Parton’s passing, Bad Wolves reportedly informed the label that they opposed releasing the song, fearing the track would be interpreted by the public as an opportunistic capitalization on her death. Despite the band’s objections, Better Noise Music decided to move forward with the release anyway, planning to direct proceeds to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library foundation. Rebollo stated that this decision, made entirely against the group’s wishes, served as the final breaking point for his tenure in the band.
“We, as an entity, told the label we had no interest in releasing the cover after learning of Dolly’s unfortunate passing,” Rebollo wrote in his statement, noting that multiple members opposed the rollout before the label announced it publicly.
Creative Autonomy and Contrast With Past Projects
Rebollo contrasted his experience in Bad Wolves with his previous time in the band Issues, praising his former group for offering genuine creative autonomy and treating musicians as trusted partners rather than subordinates. He expressed frustration that the members of Bad Wolves often bear the brunt of public scrutiny and online harassment for decisions made entirely by executives behind closed doors.
“The amount of hate, negativity, and harassment we receive on a daily basis due to decisions made outside of our control has taken a massive toll on our sanity,” Rebollo stated. While expressing gratitude toward band founder John Boecklin and the label for financial support while off the road, Rebollo emphasized that he was unwilling to let his art be compromised.
Band Lineup Changes and Tour Disruptions
Rebollo’s departure adds to a turbulent period of lineup adjustments for Bad Wolves. The exit arrives closely on the heels of the band’s removal from Skillet’s upcoming Comatose 20-year anniversary tour. According to industry reports, that tour removal stemmed from fan backlash directed at vocalist Sara “Killboy” Skinner.
Despite stepping away from the project, Rebollo praised his former bandmates as friends and commended the upcoming album they created together as a genuine piece of art.
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