WASHINGTON — Few recipients of the presidential Medal of Freedom have carried more cultural and artistic weight than Bob Dylan, who received the recognition from President Barack Obama on Tuesday at the White House for contributions to American life and culture.

The gravel-voiced Dylan, who turned 71 last week, has pleased and baffled fans and critics for five decades. His 40-plus albums have featured folk anthems, country hits, rock classics and even religious tunes now sung in church pews and by gospel choirs.

“There is not a bigger giant in the history of American music,” Obama said during a packed ceremony in the East Room of the White House.

Other honorees who received medals included former senator and astronaut John Glenn, author Toni Morrison, and former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, among others.