Barack Obama’s 2025 playlist highlighted Kendrick Lamar, Drake and Gunna as key Hip-Hop voices shaping the sound of in the present day and tomorrow.

Barack Obama put Hip-Hop entrance and heart on December 18 when he unveiled his 2025 playlist on Instagram that includes chart-toppers like Kendrick Lamar and Drake, alongside rising voices together with Gunna and Chance the Rapper.

The former president’s annual music roundup as soon as once more leaned closely into the style, spotlighting each acquainted names and world newcomers.

The 44th president’s list included 22 tracks spanning numerous genres, however Hip-Hop made up almost a 3rd of the alternatives. Kendrick Lamar and SZA earned a spot with their joint observe “Luther,” persevering with Kendrick’s streak of showing on Obama’s year-end picks.

Drake additionally landed on the listing regardless of latest drama within the music trade. His inclusion alerts that Obama nonetheless sees the Toronto rapper as a cultural mainstay whose work resonates past the headlines.

Atlanta’s personal Gunna made the minimize with “Just Say Dat,” a nod to the previous president’s consciousness of the present lure wave and its affect on youthful audiences.

Chance the Rapper, a longtime favourite of Obama’s and a fellow Chicagoan, appeared on the listing with Jamila Woods for his or her collaboration “No More Old Men,” a observe that blends soulful manufacturing with social commentary.

The playlist additionally featured worldwide Hip-Hop voices. Nigerian famous person Burna Boy teamed up with Travis Scott on “Tatata,” whereas Olamide’s “99” introduced collectively Daecolm, Seyi Vibez, Asake and Young John for a world showcase of Afro-influenced rap.

Obama’s connection to Hip-Hop dates again to his time in workplace, when he recurrently invited artists to the White House and praised the style’s storytelling energy. His playlists have turn into a cultural custom since his presidency, providing a glimpse into his private style whereas additionally influencing public music discovery.

The full listing, which additionally consists of alternatives from different genres, was posted on Obama’s Instagram and rapidly garnered over 239,000 likes. Many praised the previous president’s ear for music and his continued help for Hip-Hop as a authentic artwork type.

Obama’s full 2025 playlist was launched on December 18 through his official Instagram account.

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