Oprah Winfrey, talkshow host, saying 

"It means that all of the hours and all of the sacrifice and all of the lack of balance and all of the giving, giving, giving, giving, giving, giving to other people and not taking time for yourself actually paid off because some people were paying attention. That's what it means."

The media magnate was recognised along with former Beatle Paul McCartney, during the 33rd annual awards gala in Washington D.C.

Paul McCartney, singer, saying

"It's a huge honour. It is one of America's highest honours and you know as a performing artist it is just great to get it and in such illustrious company as I am in tonight."

Joining the ranks of 2010's honourees were Jerry Herman.. Bill T Jones.. and Merle Haggard.

On hand to support Haggard, was singer, Cheryl Crowe.

Cheryl Crowe, singer, saying

"I feel very honoured that I am part of the segment that is honouring him and one of the greatest American songwriters and definitely one of the greatest country songwriters and I am a huge fan so I feel very honoured to get to be a part of that segment."

Guests also included previous honourees such as Smokey Robinson and Diana Ross.

Diana Ross, singer, saying

"This time I can be a guest and really just enjoy the festivities without having to be on. You know what I mean, it was really nice."

The Kennedy Center Honours are held every year, recognising lifetime achievers in the world of performing arts.

Gemma Haines, Reuters.