Barack Obama playlist 2025: Every December, Barack Obama does something fans quietly wait for all year. He opens a small window into his world not through speeches or politics, but through music.
His annual favourites list, a tradition he began while still living in the White House, has returned for 2025.
This year’s music list doesn’t try to impress. It doesn’t chase trends. Instead, it moves like a long road trip playlist jumping decades, countries, languages, and moods without apology.
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 favorite books, movies, and music. I hope you find something new to enjoy—and please send any recommendations for me to check out! pic.x.com/T9LFt5fnKG
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 18, 2025
No genre, no borders, no rules
What stands out immediately is how freely the list travels. Olivia Dean sits comfortably next to Bruce Springsteen. Rosalía shares space with New Zealand indie band The Beths. Indian-origin artist Ganavya appears beside Lady Gaga.
Songs like “Nice To Each Other” by Olivia Dean and “Faithless” by Bruce Springsteen bring quiet reflection, while “Metal” by The Beths and “Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga add bold energy. The playlist feels lived-in like it was built slowly.
Drake and Kendrick Lamar: Together at last?
The most talked-about moment on the list is impossible to miss. Both Drake and Kendrick Lamar appear in the same playlist.
For a year where their rivalry has dominated hip-hop conversations, seeing Kendrick’s “Luther” (with SZA) and Drake’s “Nokia” listed side by side raised more than a few eyebrows.
BLACKPINK’s global moment continues
K-pop fans also have a reason to celebrate. BLACKPINK’s comeback single “JUMP” has landed a spot on the playlist. Released earlier this year, the track marked the group’s powerful return.
Obama released the list on December 18, calling it part of his yearly ritual of sharing the books, films, and music that shaped his year.
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A playlist that travels the world
Beyond big names, the list gives space to voices from everywhere. Burna Boy teams up with Travis Scott on “Tatata.” Rosalía appears with the bold “Sexo, Violencia y Llantas.” Nigerian, Latin, indie, jazz, folk, it’s all here.
Tracks like “Pasayadan” by Ganavya, “Silver Lining” by Laufey, “No More Old Men” by Chance the Rapper and Jamila Woods, and “Bury Me” by Jason Isbell add emotional depth. Even jazz lovers aren’t left out, with Stacey Kent’s “I Wish I Could Go Travelling Again.”