Former U.S. President Barack Obama has unveiled his annual summer playlist, showcasing 44 songs from a diverse range of genres.
Among the featured artistes, Nigerian musicians Tems and Rema are the only representatives from Nigeria to make the list this year.
Obama shared the playlist on X.com on Monday, August 12, 2024, noting, “With summer winding down, I wanted to share some songs that I’ve been listening to lately and it wouldn’t be my playlist if it didn’t include an eclectic mix. I hope you find something new to listen to!”
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This marks another recognition for Nigerian talent on Obama’s playlists.
In previous years, artistes such as Wizkid and Tems were highlighted in 2020, Burna Boy in 2022, and Ayra Starr in 2023.
However, no Nigerian artist was featured in the 2021 playlist.
In addition to Tems and Rema, Obama’s playlist includes notable tracks such as Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” Charli XCX’s “365,” Billie Eilish’s “Chihiro,” Bob Marley’s “Them Belly Full,” Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em,” The Miracles’ “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” and Samara Joy’s “Someone to Watch Over Me” featuring Pasquale Grasso.
Megan Thee Stallion’s “Wanna Be” featuring GloRilla also made the list.
This year’s playlist release follows Obama’s confirmation last year that he personally curates his playlists.
In a conversation with comedian Hasan Minhaj, Obama dismissed speculation that the playlists were compiled by someone else, stating, “I do! Listen. I am so glad that I have this opportunity.”
“People believe the books and the movies, but the playlists, they somehow think… No, man! It’s on my iPad right now.”
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