Former US President Barack Obama listed tracks by Nigerian music stars Olamide and Burna Boy among his 2025 favourite songs, once again reaffirming the global reach of Afrobeats.
Obama released his annual year-end lists of favorite books, movies, and music on his social media pages on Thursday, continuing a tradition he began during his White House years.
Among the songs selections was “Tatata” by Grammy-winner, Burna Boy featuring Travis Scott, and “99” by Olamide featuring Daecolm, Seyi Vibez, Asake, and Young Jonn.
“As 2025 comes to a close, I’m continuing a tradition that I started during my time in the White House: sharing my annual lists of favourite books, movies, and music.
“I hope you find something new to enjoy — and please send any recommendations for me to check out!” the former president wrote.
Obama’s eclectic playlist comprised 30 songs, including Olamide and Burna Boy’s, across different genres.
The playlist also featured tracks from artistes such as Kendrick Lamar and SZA (“Luther”), Lady Gaga (“Abracadabra”), Olivia Dean (“Nice to Each Other”), BLACKPINK (“Jump”), Drake (“Nokia”), Chappell Roan (“The Giver”), and Bruce Springsteen (“Faithless”), among others.
Released on May 21, 2025, through Atlantic Records, “TaTaTa” is the fourth single from Burna Boy’s eighth studio album, No Sign of Weakness, released on July 10.
“99” is Olamide’s high-energy track released in June 2025 as part of his self-titled eleventh studio album Olamidé.
Nigerian artistes, Rema and Asake made Obama’s 2024 favourite songs list.
