Biden hosts the 2023 Kennedy Center honorees at the White House

President Biden received the 2023 Kennedy Center recipients at the White House on Sunday.

The Kennedy Center honors a select group of people each year for their artistic influences on American culture. This year’s honorees are Billy Crystal, Renee Fleming, Barry Gibb, Queen Latifah and Dionne Warwick.

CBS will broadcast the 46th Annual Kennedy Center Honors on Wednesday, December 27.

At the reception held on Sunday, Biden spoke about the importance of the performing arts.

“Performing arts is more than just sound,” he said. “It reflects who we are as Americans. As human beings. This is especially true for the more than 200 Kennedy Center honorees over the past 46 years for helping to shape how we see ourselves, how we see each other, and how we see our world.” “The honors are based not only on the length of their careers and the scope of work that has gained increasing recognition, but also on their unique place in the conscience, and in the spirit, of our dynamic and diverse nation.”

The president recounted the long accomplishments of each honoree, describing Crystal as a person who “makes everyone stop and laugh.” He said that Fleming has a voice “of pure gold,” noting that she sang at a special mass for his family before his inauguration.

Biden also praised the music and family ties shared by the Bee Gees, represented by Gibb, the last surviving member of the trio, and called rapper Queen Latifah a “natural storyteller” and one of several black artists “using their art to break down barriers.” Under the barriers.”

Finally, he spoke about Warwick’s achievements as a singer, highlighting her impressive career and the many awards she has won over the years.

“Her voice and heart make us feel something deep within ourselves,” he said.

Below are photos from this year’s 46th Kennedy Center Honors Gala: