This year's Kennedy Center honorees announced

Neil Diamond and Meryl Streep among artists set to receive the nation's highest cultural distinction in December

Published September 7, 2011 4:26PM (EDT)

Meryl Streep.
Meryl Streep.

Neil Diamond has been chosen to receive the Kennedy Center Honors this year along with some of the biggest names from Broadway, jazz, classical music and Hollywood.

The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Wednesday says singer Barbara Cook, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, saxophonist Sonny Rollins and actress Meryl Streep will also receive the nation's highest honors for defining American culture through the arts.

President Barack Obama will salute the artists at a show Dec. 4. It will be broadcast Dec. 27.

Diamond wrote hits that include "America" and "I'm a Believer." His song "Sweet Caroline" is an anthem at ballparks and bars.


By Brett Zongker

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