Rocker Rod Stewart, director Peter Greenaway and actor Hugh Laurie are among several luminaries named to the Queen's New Year's Honours List.

The list, published Saturday, indicates honourees who will be given one of five Orders of the British Empire — the two highest levels bestow the honour of dame or knight.

Singer Rod Stewart, seen here at a 2004 London concert, will be made a Commander of the British Empire.
(Yui Mok/Associated Press)

The 61-year-old Stewart, whose 62 hit singles include Do Ya Think I'm Sexy?, Tonight's the Night (Gonna Be Alright) and Maggie May, and Greenaway, who directed Prospero's Books and The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover, were given the titles of Commander of the British Empire (CBE).

They are also joined by writer Alexander McCall Smith, author of the popular No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency book series.

The Commander designation is just one below knighthood.

Hugh Laurie, a Cambridge-educated comedian who made his mark in the British Black Adder series and now stars in the hit American TV medical drama House, was also bestowed an honour: Officer of the British Empire (OBE), just below that of Commander.

The 47-year-old performer won a Golden Globe this year for his portrayal of the drug-addicted doctor and is nominated again.

Those receiving knighthoods include pianist George Shearing, who composed the jazz standard Lullaby of Birdland. The 87-year-old, who was born blind, led several jazz ensembles during the 1950s and 1960s.

The London-born Shearing has entertained the Queen as well as U.S. presidents Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan.

Shearing, who has 300 compositions to his name, said he was amazed to be receiving an honour for something he loved to do.

"Receiving an honour as a knighthood might also show young people what can be achieved in life if one learns his craft and follows his dream."

Recipients are nominated by government departments, individuals and private organizations. Decisions are made by committees within the top levels of government.

The Order was established in 1917 by King George V, who wished to pay tribute to the thousands of people who served in non-combat roles during the First World War. It has since expanded to include those from the entertainment and sports worlds.

The honours will be handed out at an official ceremony in March.