Former U.S. President Barack Obama continued his tradition of sharing his annual favorite songs list, revealing his top picks from 2023 today (Dec. 29).
Obama’s eclectic taste in music included a range of musicians and genres this year. “Let me know if there are any artists or songs I should check out,” he tweeted. Among the notable tracks are “Cobra” by Megan Thee Stallion, Beyoncé’s “AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM” featuring Kendrick Lamar, Tyla’s “Water” and “On My Mama” by Victoria Monét.
The list also contained a collaboration between Central Cee and Dave titled “Sprinter” and “Toxic Trait” by Stormzy featuring Fredo. Evidently, Obama also has an appreciation for British Hip Hop. Other highlights included cuts from Brent Faiyaz, Davido, 6LACK and Tems.
Notably, the musical roundup followed JAY-Z’s earlier release of his favorite records from 2023. The TIDAL playlist consisted of Drake, Kodak Black, Nicki Minaj, Latto, Offset and several others. Rising acts like Ken Carson, Veeze and Doechii were also found on his picks.
Sauce Walka, whose “Dangerous Daringer” made the final cut, shared his reaction on Instagram. He wrote, “I was supposed to make this announcement yesterday, but it’s a muthaf**kin’ celebration! Salute to my n**ga, Hov, man. Salute to JAY-Z.”
He continued, “Shoutout to my brother Conway, we made a classic, man… I’m a street n**ga, man, you know what I’m sayin’? I’m 10 years independent. So, these [are] my Grammys. These [are] my awards.”
In July, Obama shared his favorite songs of the summer. It welcomed SZA’s SOS standout “Snooze,” Ice Spice’s “Princess Diana” featuring Minaj and Janelle Monáe’s “Only Have Eyes 42.” Other notable names included Jorja Smith, Ayra Starr, 2Pac, Janet Jackson and J Hus.
“Like I do every year, here are some songs I’ve been listening to this summer — a mix of old and new,” he wrote. “Look forward to hearing what I’ve missed.”