Femi Ashekun/
In a nod to the global influence of Afrobeat, former US, President Barack Obama, has featured Nigerian stars, Tems and Rema, on his 2024 Summer Playlist, shared on social media yesterday.
This annual playlist, eagerly anticipated by music lovers worldwide, highlights Obama’s diverse musical taste, blending a mix of genres and international artists.
Tems’ soulful voice and distinct style have earned her a spot on Obama’s 44-track playlist with “Love Me Jeje.” Rema, who has become a global sensation, appears with his song “Yayo.”
Both artists have seen their careers soar, with Tems earning recognition for her collaborations with major international artists and Rema becoming a leading figure in the Afrobeat genre.
This is not the first time Nigerian artists have caught Obama’s attention. In previous years, Rema’s “Iron Man” was featured on Obama’s 2019 Summer Playlist, a significant moment that marked the beginning of his rapid rise to international fame.
Previous recognitions for Nigerian artists also include Wizkid and Tems in 2020, Burna Boy in 2022, and Ayra Starr in 2023.
No Nigerian artist was featured in Obama’s 2021 playlist.
These inclusions have not only highlighted the artists but also brought global attention to the richness of Nigerian music.
This year’s playlist is as diverse as ever, with tracks from a range of genres and artists. Alongside Tems and Rema, Obama included tracks like Shaboozey’s Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” Billie Eilish’s “Chihiro,” Charli XCX’s Brat closer “365” and Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em” anthem.
Other entries include GloRilla and Megan Thee Stallion’s “Wanna Be,” Saweetie’s “My Best,” Tems’ “Love Me Jeje,” Moneybagg Yo and Morgan Wallen’s genre-blending “Whiskey Whiskey,” 2Pac’s “How Do U Want It” and Common’s “The People.”
The former president’s playlists have become an annual event, giving artistes a platform that reaches millions of listeners worldwide.