Barack Obama’s annual end-of-year playlists have become a cultural ritual in their own right, a snapshot of the music that soundtracked his year, and a subtle barometer of global influence. In his newly released 2025 Favourite Songs list, Nigerian artists once again claim their space, with Burna Boy, Olamide, and Obongjayar all earning spots.
Sharing the playlist on social media, the former US President explained that the tradition dates back to his time in the White House, when he began publicly rounding up the music, books, and films that resonated with him most each year. Over time, the lists have evolved into moments of recognition — particularly for artists outside the Western mainstream.
Burna Boy appears with “TaTaTa,” his collaboration with Travis Scott, released in May as part of his eighth studio album, No Sign of Weakness. The track’s inclusion reinforces Burna’s continued crossover appeal, balancing Afrofusion with a global pop-rap sensibility that has made him a fixture on international stages.
Olamide also earns a place on the list with “99,” a collaborative record featuring Asake, Seyi Vibez, Young Jonn, and British singer Daecolm. The song highlights Olamide’s long-standing strength as a curator — bringing together multiple voices while keeping the sound grounded in the street-rooted energy that has defined his career.
Adding another layer to Nigeria’s presence is Obongjayar, the London-based artist whose track “Not In Surrender” also made Obama’s selections. His inclusion reflects the growing recognition of alternative Nigerian voices operating beyond traditional genre boundaries.
Beyond Nigeria, the 2025 playlist spans a wide sonic range, featuring artists such as Lady Gaga, Olivia Dean, Rosalía, Kendrick Lamar, SZA, and Drake. It continues a pattern seen in previous years: Obama’s 2024 list similarly spotlighted Nigerian talent, including Rema’s “Yayo” and Asake’s Travis Scott-assisted “Active.”
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