Former President Barack Obama's annual music playlist features a diverse selection of globally recognized artists. This year's list includes Nigerian Afrobeats artists Rema and Asake, and South African artist Tyla, highlighting the genre's increasing international influence.

Obama's 2024 Favorite Songs Playlist, shared on social media, maintains his tradition of presenting a varied selection of tracks from different genres. Among the standout songs are Rema’s viral sensation “Yayo” and Asake’s collaboration with Travis Scott titled “Active.” 

In his announcement, Obama stated, “Here are my favorite songs from this year! Check them out if you’re looking to shake up your playlist – and let me know if there’s a song or artist I should make sure to listen to.” 

The inclusion of Rema and Asake highlights the rapid ascent of Afrobeats, which has gained considerable popularity worldwide. Rema has solidified his position as a leading figure in the Afrobeats scene this year, while Asake has received praise for blending traditional Nigerian music with modern influences. 

The playlist also includes tracks from global icons such as Kendrick Lamar, Billie Eilish, Beyoncé, and Central Cee, showcasing Obama’s broad appreciation for diverse musical talent. Earlier this year, he released his summer playlist, featuring contemporary hits like Charli XCX’s “365,” Tems’ “Love Me, Jeje,” Saweetie’s “My Best,” and GloRilla and Megan Thee Stallion’s “Wanna Be.” He also honored classic tracks, including the Rolling Stones’ “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” Blackstreet’s “No Diggity,” and 2Pac’s “How Do U Want It.”

Check out the full list below:

  • Kendrick Lamar, “Squabble Up”
  • Billie Eilish, “Lunch”
  • Rema, “Yayo”
  • Tyla, Gunna & Skillibeng, “Jump”
  • Central Cee & Lil Baby, “Band4band”
  • Ezra Collective & Yazmin Lacey, “God Gave Me Feet for Dancing”
  • The Red Clay Strays, “Ramblin’”
  • Fontaines D.C., “Favourite”
  • Asake & Travis Scott, “Active”
  • Shaboozey, “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
  • Bonny Light Horseman, “Old Dutch”
  • Rae Khalil, “Is It Worth It”
  • Beyoncé, “Texas Hold ‘Em”
  • Jordan Adetunji, “Kehlani”
  • Artemas, “I Like the Way You Kiss Me”
  • Johnny Blue Skies, “Scooter Blues”
  • Hozier, “Too Sweet”
  • Leon Bridges, “Peaceful Place”
  • Tommy Richman, “Million Dollar Baby”
  • Waxahatchee & MJ Lenderman, “Right Back to It”
  • Myles Smith, “Stargazing”
  • Jack White, “That’s How I’m Feeling”
  • Moses Sumney, “Gold Coast”
  • Karol G, “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido”
  • FloyyMenor & Cris MJ, “Gata Only”