Iconic vocalist Mavis Staples has been announced as the recipient of a 2016 Kennedy Center Honor. The organization recognizes “those in the performing arts for a lifetime of contributions to American culture.”

“These Honorees represent what is possible when creativity is not just cultivated, but unleashed,” says David M. Rubenstein, Kennedy Center Chairman. “Mavis Staples’ unmatched gospel and rhythm and blues masterpieces span 60 years and even served as a musical backdrop to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s campaign for Civil Rights.”

Staples, who recently released her new album, Livin’ On A High Note, and won a Grammy this year for Best American Roots Performance, will attend a reception at the White House hosted by the President and Mrs. Obama and perform at a Kennedy Center Opera House gala after. The performance will air on CBS on December 27.