Paul McCartney to be honoured by Obama

The President is to award the former Beatle the 33rd Annual Kennedy Center Honour

Sir Paul McCartney is set to be given the 33rd Annual Kennedy Center Honour from President Obama for directly influencing American arts, entertainment and culture in a "profound way."

"The Kennedy Center celebrates five individuals who have spent their lives enriching, inspiring and elevating the cultural vibrancy of our nation and the world," said Kennedy Center Chairman David M. Rubenstein."Sir Paul McCartney is one of the most influential and successful songwriters and musicians of all time, whose work has continuously altered both the creation and perception of music all over the world"

Also to be honored are Oprah Winfrey, choreographer Bill T. Jones, composer Jerry Herman and country music legend Merle Haggard.

The honorees will attend a state diner on December 4 and appear at a gala the following day.