Former President Barack Obama has unveiled his annual summer playlist for 2024, featuring a diverse array of artistes from around the globe. Notably, Nigerian stars Tems and Rema have secured spots with their tracks “Love Me Jeje” and “Yayo,” respectively.
Obama, who has long been praised for his wide-ranging musical selections, took to Instagram on Monday to share his latest compilation. “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,” he wrote. “I hope you find something new to listen to!”
The playlist, a blend of genres spanning from electropop to hip-hop and classic rock, underscores Obama’s appreciation for both emerging talents and timeless legends. Alongside Tems and Rema, the list boasts tracks like Charli XCX’s “365,” Billie Eilish’s “Chihiro,” and The Rolling Stones’ “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.”
The inclusion of Tems and Rema is a nod to the burgeoning influence of Nigerian music on the global stage. Tems, whose soulful melodies have captivated audiences worldwide, delivers a mesmerising performance in “Love Me Jeje.” Rema, known for his innovative fusion of Afrobeat and trap, brings his signature energy to “Yayo.”
Both artistes have been on meteoric rises in recent years. Tems gained international acclaim with her feature on Wizkid’s “Essence,” while Rema has been lauded for hits like “Dumebi” and his contribution to the Marvel Studios’ Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” soundtrack.
In addition to his musical selections, Obama also shared his summer reading list, highlighting works that span fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. Titles such as Percival Everett’s James and Jonathan Blitzer’s Everyone Who is Gone Here: The United States, Central America, and the Making of a Crisis made the cut.
As summer winds down, Obama’s playlist serves as a curated guide for music enthusiasts seeking fresh sounds and timeless classics. For fans of Tems and Rema, their inclusion is a proud moment, signalling the global resonance of Nigerian music.
See the full list here
