Former U.S. President Barack Obama has unveiled his eagerly awaited 2024 playlist, continuing his tradition of celebrating diverse musical talent from around the world.
This year, the playlist features a notable spotlight on Nigerian Afrobeats stars Rema and Asake, underscoring the genre’s meteoric rise to global prominence.
The playlist, shared via social media, highlights Obama’s eclectic taste and his knack for curating tracks across various genres.
Among the featured songs are Rema’s viral hit “Yayo” and Asake’s collaboration with American rapper Travis Scott on “Active.” Their inclusion reflects the growing influence of Afrobeats on the international music scene, with both artists gaining acclaim for their innovative sounds.
Rema’s contributions to the genre have cemented his status as an Afrobeats icon, while Asake continues to draw attention for blending traditional Nigerian rhythms with modern influences.
Their recognition in Obama’s list further affirms Afrobeats’ position as a global musical force.
Beyond Afrobeats, the playlist features an array of songs by renowned global artists, including Kendrick Lamar, Billie Eilish, Beyoncé, and Central Cee.
This diversity underscores Obama’s appreciation for a wide spectrum of musical talent and his ability to connect with contemporary trends while honoring timeless artistry.
Earlier in 2024, Obama also released his summer playlist, which featured contemporary hits like Charli XCX’s “365,” Tems’ “Love Me, Jeje,” and GloRilla and Megan Thee Stallion’s “Wanna Be,” alongside classics like the Rolling Stones’ “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” and 2Pac’s “How Do U Want It.”
These playlists continue to resonate with global audiences, offering a blend of nostalgia and discovery.
The 2024 selection includes the following tracks:
Kendrick Lamar, “Squabble Up”
Billie Eilish, “Lunch”
Rema, “Yayo”
Tyla, Gunna & Skillibeng, “Jump”
Central Cee & Lil Baby, “Band4band”
Ezra Collective & Yazmin Lacey, “God Gave Me Feet for Dancing”
The Red Clay Strays, “Ramblin’”
Fontaines D.C., “Favourite”
Asake & Travis Scott, “Active”
Shaboozey, “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
Bonny Light Horseman, “Old Dutch”
Rae Khalil, “Is It Worth It”
Beyoncé, “Texas Hold ‘Em”
Jordan Adetunji, “Kehlani”
Artemas, “I Like the Way You Kiss Me”
Johnny Blue Skies, “Scooter Blues”
Hozier, “Too Sweet”
Leon Bridges, “Peaceful Place”
Tommy Richman, “Million Dollar Baby”
Waxahatchee & MJ Lenderman, “Right Back to It”
Myles Smith, “Stargazing”
Jack White, “That’s How I’m Feeling”
Moses Sumney, “Gold Coast”
Karol G, “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido”
FloyyMenor & Cris MJ, “Gata Only”
Obama’s annual playlists have become a cultural staple, offering insights into his musical preferences and highlighting artists from various backgrounds and genres.
As Afrobeats continues its ascent, its presence in such influential spaces signals an exciting future for the genre.
