Former U.S. President Barack Obama is continuing a tradition fans eagerly look forward to each year—revealing the art and culture that defined his past 12 months. As 2025 winds down, Obama once again offered a glimpse into his personal playlist, showcasing a wide-ranging mix of global superstars, rising talents, and genre-spanning sounds.
On Thursday, December 18, Obama took to social media to post sleek graphics highlighting his favorite books, movies, and music of the year. The music list, in particular, quickly caught attention, proving that his taste remains as eclectic and current as ever. From pop and hip-hop to indie and global hits, BLACKPINK, Drake, Lady Gaga and More Make Barack Obama’s 2025 Favorite Songs List—a headline-worthy moment for music lovers everywhere.
A Playlist Packed With Global Stars
Among the standout tracks on Obama’s 2025 favorites are Lady Gaga’s explosive hit “Abracadabra” from her Mayhem era, Olivia Dean’s soulful “Nice to Each Other,” and Drake’s sleek and catchy “Nokia.” The list also features Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s massively successful collaboration “Luther,” which spent 13 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100, along with Chappell Roan’s emotionally charged anthem “The Giver.”
Obama’s selections didn’t stop there. He also showed love to BLACKPINK’s energetic track “Jump,” Bruce Springsteen’s reflective “Faithless,” Rosalía’s bold “Sexo, Violencia y Llantas,” and Gunna’s “Just Say Dat.” Adding a softer touch to the mix were Laufey’s dreamy “Silver Lining” and Alex Warren’s chart-dominating favorite “Ordinary,” one of 2025’s most talked-about songs.
A Tradition That Started in the White House
Sharing his thoughts alongside the lists, Obama reflected on how this annual tradition began during his presidency and has continued ever since.
“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,” he wrote. “I hope you find something new to enjoy—and please send any recommendations for me to check out!”
His invitation for suggestions has become a signature part of the tradition, turning the list into a two-way conversation between Obama and fans around the world.
Not Just Music: Books and Movies That Left an Impact
Music wasn’t the only cultural highlight Obama shared. His favorite films of 2025 included One Battle After Another, Sinners, and Hamnet, among others that made a lasting impression. On the literary side, he highlighted Mark Twain by Ron Chernow and The Book of Records by Madeleine Thien, continuing his reputation for thoughtful and diverse reading choices.
A Cultural Moment Beyond the Playlist
Obama isn’t alone in celebrating the year’s best sounds. Earlier this month, Billboard unveiled its own 2025 staff picks for top songs and albums, along with its highly anticipated year-end charts—making December a major moment for music reflection.
Once again, Obama’s list feels less like a celebrity playlist and more like a cultural snapshot of the year—one that blends mainstream hits with meaningful artistry and global influence.
