Obama’s 2025 Favourite Songs List Shines Spotlight on Burna Boy, Olamide & Obongjayar
Barack Obama has released his 2025 Favourite Songs list, and Nigerian music once again earns a strong showing. The former U.S. President shared the playlist on social media, continuing a tradition he began while in the White House of spotlighting the music, books and films he enjoyed throughout the year.
Leading the Nigerian entries is Burna Boy, who appears with “TaTaTa,” his collaboration with Travis Scott. The song, released in May, is one of the standout singles from Burna Boy’s eighth studio album, No Sign of Weakness.
Olamide also makes the list with “99,” a star-packed track featuring Asake, Seyi Vibez, Young Jonn and UK singer Daecolm, highlighting his knack for blending multiple voices while staying true to his signature sound.
Rounding out the Nigerian representation is London-based artist Obongjayar, whose song “Not In Surrender” adds another African voice to Obama’s selections this year.
Beyond Nigeria, the playlist includes songs from Lady Gaga, Rosalía, Kendrick Lamar, SZA, Drake and Olivia Dean. Nigerian artists also featured on Obama’s 2024 list, with Rema’s “Yayo” and Asake’s “Active” appearing last 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 favorite books, movies, and music. I hope you find something new to enjoy—and please send any recommendations for me to check out! pic.twitter.com/T9LFt5fnKG
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 18, 2025
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