Just days before the close of 2023, former US President Barack Obama delighted music enthusiasts worldwide by unveiling his much-anticipated list of favorite songs for the year. Continuing a tradition that has spanned many years, Obama shared not only his favorite songs but also his preferred movies and books, offering a unique insight into his cultural preferences.
This year, the 62-year-old former president curated a diverse list of 28 songs for his “Favorite Music of 2023” compilation. The selection showcased an eclectic mix of musical talent, ranging from established icons like Beyoncé and Shakira to emerging artists like Blondshell and Indigo De Souza. Notably, American singer and songwriter Mitski, who achieved widespread acclaim through TikTok, earned her place on the list with her latest hit, “My Love Mine All Mine.” The songs encompassed various genres, including pop, R&B, Afrobeats, rock, and rap, reflecting Obama’s diverse musical palate.
Upon sharing the list on his social media platforms, Barack Obama invited his followers to suggest additional artists or songs for him to explore, fostering engagement with music enthusiasts around the world. However, many eagle-eyed fans observed a conspicuous absence: the absence of any song by pop sensation Taylor Swift, who had dominated the music charts throughout the year and embarked on her record-breaking Eras Tour. The omission prompted some to express their surprise, with one person commenting, “Barack, c’mon, my man, where’s Taylor?”
American singer Rita Wilson, whose song “Crazy Love“ featured on Obama’s list, expressed her gratitude on his Instagram post, exclaiming, “What a surprise to see my duet with Keith Urban, ‘Crazy Love,’ on here. Thank you, Pres. Obama!” Similarly, Canadian singer-songwriter Allison Russell, whose title track “The Returner” earned a spot on the list, conveyed her deep honor, saying, “I am wildly, deeply honored. Thank you for listening and for sharing.”
While most artists celebrated their inclusion on Obama’s prestigious list, some took a different stance. Earlier in the year, Obama’s summer playlist included “Not Strong Enough“ by the indie group Boygenius. However, American singer-songwriter Lucy Dacus, a member of Boygenius, reshared the post and voiced her dissent by simply stating, “War criminal.”
Obama’s annual tradition of sharing his favorite cultural picks continues to be a source of excitement for artists and music enthusiasts alike, offering a glimpse into the artistic tapestry that resonates with the former president.
