Former US President Barack Obama has once again recognized the global impact of Afrobeats in his 2025 end-of-year cultural roundup. In his annual playlist of favourite songs, shared on social media Thursday, Obama included Nigerian stars Burna Boy and Olamide Baddo, continuing a tradition he began while in office of highlighting his top books, films, and music each year. “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!” he wrote. The 2025 music list features 30 tracks across pop, hip-hop, indie, and world music. Highlights include Burna Boy’s “TaTaTa,” featuring Travis Scott, and Olamide’s “99,” a collaboration with Asake, Seyi Vibez, Young Jonn, and British singer Daecolm. Nigerian London-based singer Obongjayar also makes the list with “Not In Surrender.” Obama’s recognition of Nigerian artistes has drawn widespread attention on social media, underscoring Afrobeats’ expanding global reach. He had similarly celebrated Nigerian music in 2024 with tracks like Rema’s “Yayo” and Asake’s “Active” featuring Travis Scott. Released May 21, 2025, via Atlantic Records, Burna Boy’s “TaTaTa” is the fourth single from his eighth studio album No Sign of Weakness, blending Afro-fusion and trap. Olamide’s “99,” released in June 2025 from his eleventh studio album Olamidé, revolves around themes of wealth, enjoyment, and carefree living. Other notable songs on the list include Olivia Dean’s “Nice To Each Other,” Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther,” BLACKPINK’s “Jump,” Bruce Springsteen’s “Faithless,” Rosalía’s “Sexo, Violencia y Llantas,” Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra,” Gunna’s “Just Say Dat,” and Drake’s “Nokia,” among others. On the film front, Obama’s favourites include One Battle After Another, Sinners, It Was Just an Accident, Hamnet, Sentimental Value, No Other Choice, The Secret Agent, Train Dreams, Jay Kelly, Good Fortune, and Orwell: 2+2=5. His top books for the year feature Beth Macy’s Paper Girl, Susan Choi’s Flashlight, Jill Lepore’s We the People, Angela Flournoy’s The Wilderness, Brian Goldstone’s There Is No Place for Us, as well as works by Ethan Rutherford, Andrew Ross Sorkin, Kiran Desai, Zadie Smith, Ian McEwan, and Michelle Obama.
