Former President Barack Obama’s summer playlists have become a global cultural phenomenon, celebrated not just for their eclectic mix of genres but also for the exposure they provide to artists. In his latest 2024 summer playlist, three Africa artists — Tems, Rema and Tyla — have found their way onto this list.

Tems’ inclusion comes with her track “Love Me Jeje” from her debut album, Born in the Wild while Rema makes the cut with “YAYO” a standout from his sophomore album, HEIS.

With summer winding down, I wanted to share some songs that I’ve been listening to lately – and it wouldn’t be my playlist if it didn’t include an eclectic mix. I hope you find something new to listen to! pic.twitter.com/aL400Ctpde

— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) August 12, 2024

This isn’t the first time Nigerian artists have been featured on Obama’s playlist. In 2020, Wizkid’s “Essence,” featuring Tems, was highlighted, becoming an anthem that year. Burna Boy and Ayra Starr were subsequently included in 2022 and 2023, respectively, reinforcing the steady rise of Nigerian music on the global stage. Interestingly, 2021 was an exception, as no Nigerian artists were featured, but this year’s selections reaffirm the genre’s enduring appeal.

This year’s playlist also includes Charli XCX’s “365,” Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em,” Tommy Richman’s “Million Dollar Baby,” Glorilla & Megan Thee Stallion’s “Wanna Be,” Billie Eilish’s “CHIHIRO,” 2Pac feat. K-Ci & JoJo’s “How Do U Want It,” and Bob Dylan’s “Silvio.” Obama’s playlist not only highlights emerging and established talent but also serves as a barometer for global musical trends. The tradition began during his final days in office, when he partnered with Spotify to curate a selection of his favorite tracks.

 

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Obama acknowledged in an interview with Tiktok influencer Carter Gregory that his daughters, Sasha and Malia, help him stay current with musical trends, ensuring that his playlists remain as fresh as they are diverse. “I get referrals from my daughters—which keeps me from being stuck in the ’80s,” the former president tells Gregory. As Gregory discusses the music he’s currently dancing to, Obama adds, “I’m not sure I’d be dancing as well as you. I’ve got moves… but I try to stay in my lane.”