Nigerian Artists Tems and Rema Featured on Barack Obama’s 2024 Summer Playlist
Former U.S. President Barack Obama has released his highly anticipated 2024 summer playlist, featuring an eclectic mix of 44 songs that includes tracks by Nigerian artists Tems and Rema.
Obama shared the playlist on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, stating, “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. I hope you find something new to listen to!
“The inclusion of Tems’ “Love Me JeJe” and Rema’s “Yayo” highlights the growing global influence of Nigerian music. These artists join an impressive roster of international stars on the playlist, including Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, and Bob Marley & the Wailers.
Obama’s annual summer playlist has become a cultural touchstone, often spotlighting both established and emerging artists across various genres. This year’s selection spans from classic rock hits like The Rolling Stones’ “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” to contemporary tracks such as Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em.
“The former president’s recognition of Nigerian artists on this global platform underscores the increasing prominence of African music in the international scene. It also provides significant exposure for Tems and Rema, potentially introducing their music to a broader audience.
Music industry analysts suggest that inclusion on such high-profile playlists can lead to increased streams and broader recognition for artists, particularly those from emerging markets.
As the summer season comes to a close, Obama’s playlist offers listeners a diverse array of musical choices, reflecting the former president’s wide-ranging tastes and his knack for identifying trending artists from around the world.
