Obama lists Olamide’s ‘99’, Burna Boy’s ‘TaTaTa’ among 2025 favourite songs

A former President of the United States, Barack Obama, has once again spotlighted the global reach of Afrobeats in his highly anticipated year-end cultural recommendations.

Obama, in his list of favourite songs for 2025, included tracks by Nigerian superstars Olamide Adedeji, popularly known as Olamide Baddo, and Damini Ogulu, known as Burna Boy.

Sharing the list on his social media accounts on Thursday evening, Obama said he was continuing the tradition of releasing his favourite books, movies and music.

“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 favourite books, movies, and music.

“I hope you find something new to enjoy — and please send any recommendations for me to check out!” he wrote.

The music list features 30 tracks spanning genres from pop and hip-hop to indie and world music.

Among the inclusions are Burna Boy’s “TaTaTa” featuring Travis Scott, and Olamide’s “99”, which features Asake, Seyi Vibez, Young Jonn, and British singer Daecolm.

Obama’s nod to Nigerian artists sparked reactions from fans on social media and further highlighted Afrobeats’ continued global appeal.

The former president had also spotlighted Nigerian acts in his 2024 playlist, which included Rema’s “Yayo” and Asake’s collaboration with Travis Scott, “Active”.

Released on May 21, 2025, through Atlantic Records, “TaTaTa” is the fourth single from Burna Boy’s eighth studio album, No Sign of Weakness, released on July 10.

The track blends Burna’s Afro-fusion style with Travis Scott’s trap influences.