Former US President Barack Obama surprised music enthusiasts with the release of his 2023 playlist, titled “Barack Obama’s Favorite Music of 2023.” The diverse playlist features 28 songs from various genres and regions, showcasing Obama’s broad appreciation for music.
Notably, the playlist includes several Afrobeats hits, highlighting the genre’s global impact. Nigerian artists dominate the Afrobeats representation on the playlist:
1. **Davido:** The Grammy-nominated artist’s hit song “Unavailable” from the Timeless album, featuring South African star Musa Keys, secured a spot on Obama’s playlist.
2. **Burna Boy:** The Afrofusion star’s didactic hit “Sitting on top of the World,” featuring American rapper 21 Savage, also made it to the esteemed playlist.
3. **Asake:** Known for his Amapiano-themed song “Amapiano,” featuring his boss Olamide, Asake represents the Nigerian music scene on the global stage.
4. **Tems:** The Grammy-winning vocalist earned her place on the playlist with her recent hit “Me & U,” showcasing the international recognition of her talent.
While the inclusion of these Nigerian artists is seen as a testament to the growth of the Nigerian music industry, some fans expressed surprise that their favorite artists didn’t make the list. Additionally, South African rising star Tyla, known for her Grammy-nominated track “Water,” also received recognition on Obama’s playlist.
Overall, the playlist reflects Obama’s appreciation for music that transcends borders and cultural boundaries.
