Kennedy Center Honors The Nation's Greatest Perfroming Artists

INSIDE EDITION reports from the red carpet of the Kennedy Center Honors gala where the nation's most celebrated performers are honored.

It was Caroline Kennedy as she had never been seen her before dancing to the song that was written for her, "Sweet Caroline."

Kennedy joined Smokey Robinson and Lionel Richie on stage at the Kennedy Center Honors as they paid tribute to Neil Diamond. The legendary singer says his song was inspired by Caroline, who was 11-years-old when he wrote it.

Diamond was honored with singer Barbara Cook, jazz musician Sonny Rollins, cellist Yo Yo Ma, and actress Meryl Streep.

"It was overwhelming," said Streep.

The Oscar® winner shed a tear when INSIDE EDITION caught up with her on the red carpet, overwhelmed by the accolades.

At a White House reception before the big gala President Obama actually confessed to having a crush on her.

"Meryl Streep, anybody who saw The French Lieutenants Woman had a crush on her, I assume everybody remembers that," said Obama.

And presidential hopeful Newt Gingrich is also a fan, he was there with his wife Callista.

"We love Mamma Mia, it's our favorite movie," said Callista.

Believe it or not Gingrich is such a big fan the ringtone on his phone is "Dancing Queen!"

And Anne Hathaway belted out a song for Streep. Hathaway was joined on-stage by an ensemble of actors to raise a glass to the beloved star.