Barack Obama last night honoured five of the nation's top artists with the Kennedy Center Honors this weekend.

Bruce Springsteen, Robert De Niro and comic genius Mel Brooks took centre stage during a show attended by the U.S. President and other power players from Washington and Hollywood.

Also receiving the honors - which recognise individuals who have defined American culture through the arts as a living memorial to John F. Kennedy - are jazz pianist and composer Dave Brubeck and opera singer Grace Bumbry.