Former US President Barack Obama has done it again, dropping his annual year-end list of favourite tracks – and this time, a South African artist has hit the jackpot. Tyla, the breakout sensation from Mzansi, has earned a coveted spot on Obama’s 2024 Favourite Music list with her electrifying track Jump.
The song, a high-energy collaboration featuring Jamaican dancehall maestro Skillibeng and American rapper Gunna, was spotlighted by Obama among his top 25 songs of the year. As he shared on social media: “Here are my favourite songs from this year! Check them out if you’re looking to shake up your playlist.”
The nod from Obama is just the latest in a series of milestones for Tyla, who has been making serious waves internationally. Her infectious sound and undeniable star power have positioned her as a global ambassador for South African music.
Music enthusiasts in South Africa and beyond were quick to celebrate the news, with Cape Town-based critic Kabelo Dlamini saying, “Obama’s taste in music is as sharp as ever. Seeing artists like Tyla and Skillibeng featured shows how far our music has travelled. It’s an exciting time for African creatives.”
But Tyla wasn’t the only African artist to shine on the list. Nigerian superstar Rema made an appearance with his track YAYO, showcasing the continent’s growing influence in the global music scene.
Obama’s playlist wasn’t short on big names, either. Kendrick Lamar’s Squabble Up, Beyoncé’s Texas Hold ’Em, and Billie Eilish’s Lunch were just a few of the heavy hitters sharing space with Tyla’s Jump.
Earlier in the year, Obama revealed his love for reggae legends Bob Marley and The Wailers with their classic Them Belly Full (But We Hungry) on his summer playlist. This penchant for highlighting diverse, boundary-pushing music has become a signature of his, winning him fans among artists and listeners alike.
Main Image: Billboard
