Bad Wolves guitarist AJ Rebollo has announced his departure from the band, citing ongoing disagreements with decisions being made by the group’s label.
Rebollo revealed his decision in a lengthy statement posted to social media today, saying he could “no longer in good faith remain a member” of Bad Wolves and specifically pointing to the planned release of the band’s cover of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” as the final factor behind his exit.
“The final nail in the coffin was the label’s decision to move forward with the upcoming Dolly Parton cover, after we blatantly expressed our opposition,” Rebollo wrote.
As previously reported, Bad Wolves are set to release their heavy metal rendition of “Jolene” on Monday, August 31. According to band founder John Boecklin, Parton had heard and approved of their version and was planning to contribute vocals to the track before her passing.
Rebollo, however, claims members of Bad Wolves opposed releasing the song once a collaboration with Parton was no longer possible.
“We, as an entity, told the label we had no interest in releasing the cover after learning of Dolly’s unfortunate passing as her collaboration on the song was no longer a possibility, and we felt it would (understandably) be interpreted as somewhat of a capitalization on her passing from an outside perspective,” he explained.
Rebollo alleges the label moved forward with announcing the release despite opposition from multiple members of the band.
“They went ahead and posted that we were releasing it anyway, despite efforts from more than one member, myself included, to oppose it,” he said.
The guitarist also addressed the decision to donate proceeds from “Jolene” to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, calling the charitable aspect “an incredible choice,” while maintaining his concerns over the release.
“I can’t help but feel there is ill intent behind the decision to release the song,” Rebollo wrote.
Beyond the “Jolene” situation, Rebollo said his departure stems from broader frustrations surrounding the band’s relationship with its label, Better Noise Music, and the lack of control he feels the members have over decisions involving Bad Wolves.
“With the label completely disregarding numerous decisions we make out of passion, and ultimately just unknowingly exhausting the band’s attempts to fully enjoy being here, I am no longer happy here,” he said. “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 contrasted the situation with his previous experience as a member of Issues, saying he appreciated the autonomy the band had during his time with the group. He stressed that there are “undeniably incredible people” at Better Noise and thanked the label and Boecklin for helping him financially while Bad Wolves were off the road.
Despite his frustrations, Rebollo emphasized that his departure was not intended as an attack on his bandmates or others involved.
“This is not, by any means, some sort of call to arms against anyone, nor do I wish ill will on anyone involved in the label’s decision making,” he wrote.
“I absolutely loved the time I got to spend with the band. I love them all (the old and new members) as bandmates, people, and friends. I loved creating this upcoming album with them as I think it is a genuinely incredible piece of art, but this is a decision I just have to make.”
At the time of writing, Bad Wolves and Better Noise Music have not publicly responded to Rebollo’s statement.
Photo by Evan Aparicio
