Diana Ross first made her mark with Motown group The Supremes

Comic film actor Steve Martin, musician Brian Wilson and pianist Leon Fleisher will also be honoured at a ceremony in Washington on 2 December.

The awards, established in 1978, recognise figures who have made a significant contribution to US culture.

Steven Spielberg and Dolly Parton were among last year's winners.

'Great gift'

Composer Andrew Lloyd Webber was also singled out for his impact on American culture.

Other Britons to have been honoured include Sir Elton John in 2004 and Dame Julie Andrews in 2001.

I am grateful to the Kennedy Center for finally alleviating in me years of covetousness and trophy envy Steve Martin

"The five 2007 honourees have transformed the way we, as Americans, see, hear, and feel the performing arts.

"We will forever be thankful for the great gift they have shared with us," said Kennedy Center chairman Stephen A. Schwarzman.

Wilson, who made his name with The Beach Boys in the 1960s, said: "This is something so unexpected and I feel extremely fortunate to be in the company of such great artists."

Scorsese, winner of this year's best director Oscar for The Departed, said he was "proud to be joining the company of the very distinguished individuals who have received this honour in years past".