Boy, Asake and Olamide Feature as Barack Obama Releases Top Songs of 2025

In his usual tradition, former United States President Barack Obama has released his official musical playlist for 2025.

The 2025 list continues to celebrate global sounds, featuring several Nigerian heavyweights and breakout stars, further cementing the worldwide dominance of the Afrobeats genre.

Since he began this tradition during his presidency, his playlists have become something of a “kingmaker” for artists, with inclusion often leading to a significant surge in streaming numbers.

Obama, in a statement posted on his official X handle late on Wednesday, said, “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!”

Prominent Afrobeats stars such as Olamide, Burna Boy, Asake, Seyi Vibez and Young Jonn featured on the list, further reinforcing the genre’s global reach.

Full List:

• 99 – Olamide ft. Daecolm, Sey Vibez, Asake and Young Jonn
• TATATA – Burna Boy ft. Travis Scott
• NICE TO EACH OTHER – Olivia Dean
• LUTHER – Kendrick Lamar and SZA
• JUMPKIN – BLACKPINK
• FAITHLESS – Bruce Springsteen
• PASAYADAN – Ganavya
• PENDING – Lil Naay and Myke Towers
• SEXO, VIOLENCIA Y LLANTAS – Rosalía
• METAL – The Beths
• ABRACADABRA – Lady Gaga
• JUST SAY DAT – Gunna
• THE GIVER – Chappell Roan
• AURORA – Mora and De La Rose
• SILVER LINING – Laufey
• NO MORE OLD MEN – Chance the Rapper and Jamila Woods
• BURY ME – Jason Isbell
• I WISH I COULD GO TRAVELLING AGAIN – Stacey Kent
• PLEASE DON’T CRY – Kacy Hill
• STAY – ROE
• NEVER FELT BETTER – Everything is Recorded ft. Sampha and Florence Welch
• IN THE NAME OF LOVE – Victoria Noelle
• ANCIENT LIGHT – I’m With Her
• VITAMINA – Jombriel, DFZM and Jetta
• FLOAT – Jay Som ft. Jim Adkins
• ORDINARY – Alex Warren
• SYCAMORE TREE – Khamari
• NOKIA – Drake
• EN PRIVADO – Xavi and Manuel Turizo

NOT IN SURRENDER – Obongjayar