Barack Obama has once again shared his top music picks for the year, highlighting modern hip hop talent.
- Kendrick Lamar and Travis Scott lead the pack with standout tracks that caught Obama’s ear.
- Gunna, Central Cee, and Lil Baby also earned spots on the former president’s list.
- Obama’s love for hip hop extends beyond this list, as shown in his recent podcast appearance.
- Engaging with stars like Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole, Obama remains connected to music’s big conversations.
Former President Barack Obama has a tradition that music lovers eagerly anticipate each year—his year-end list of favorite songs. This year, the list has been graced by some of hip hop’s most prominent figures.
Kendrick Lamar stands tall with his track “Squabble Up” making the list. Kendrick’s evolving artistry continues to resonate with listeners and prominent figures alike.
Not to be outdone, Travis Scott teamed up with Asake for the track “Active,” which also caught Obama’s attention. It seems collaborations are a sweet spot for Scott this year.
Gunna joined the roster with his energetic song “Jump,” featuring Tyla and Skillibeng. Their combined talents made this track an exciting entry on Obama’s list.
Further showcasing a diverse taste, Obama included “Band4Band” by Central Cee and Lil Baby. The duo’s dynamic delivery clearly struck a chord with the former president.
Obama didn’t stop with just the household hip hop names. Tracks like “Million Dollar Baby” by Tommy Richman and Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” are notable mentions that deserve a spin.
Even Beyoncé’s undeniable talent got a nod with her song “Texas Hold ‘Em” making the list, proving once more that her music transcends genres and audiences.
Obama’s relationship with the hip hop scene isn’t just about playlists—he’s actively engaged in its narratives. On a recent podcast, Obama shared his insights on Kendrick Lamar’s impact on the genre.
Discussing Kendrick’s high-profile beef with Drake, Obama praised Kendrick’s depth and sincerity in his music. “Kendrick is a friend of mine… He digs deep into himself,” Obama shared.
Obama appreciates the nuanced stories in hip hop, whether they’re beefs or stories of fatherhood. His conversations with Kendrick often veer into personal territories, reflecting their mutual respect.
J. Cole, another artist Obama admires, has been part of Obama’s broader hip hop discussions. “J. is very high on the list,” Obama said, noting his experience with hip hop artists spans years.
Highlighting his cross-generational appeal, Obama compared J. Cole and other artists to legends like JAY-Z, likening the rap scene’s evolution to classic sports debates.
Obama’s favorites list provides a delightful glimpse into his ongoing love affair with music, a passion he’s unabashedly shared with the world each year.
Barack Obama’s musical picks remind us of the deep connection between culture and personal taste in ever-evolving hip hop.
