Nigerian singers Burna Boy Olamide Seyi Vibez Asake on Obama summer playlist
Nigerian musicians Burna Boy, Olamide, Seyi Vibez and Asake have been featured on former United States President Barack Obama’s annual summer playlist, bringing global attention to afrobeats and Nigerian music. The announcement of the playlist came as part of Obama’s tradition of sharing songs that reflect current trends, mood and sounds from around the world. The inclusion of these artists highlights their growing international influence and the way Nigerian music continues to shape global culture.
Burna Boy’s track on the playlist underscores his status as one of Africa’s most recognised music exports, known for blending afrobeats with reggae, dancehall and hip-hop elements. Olamide’s entry reflects the enduring appeal of his street-inspired rap and melodic approach that resonates across generations of music fans. Seyi Vibez represents the new wave of Nigerian artists with his emotionally-driven lyrics and unique sound that has captured a wide audience both locally and abroad. Asake’s infectious energy and fusion of fuji and afrobeats have also gained international recognition, contributing to his appearance on the list.
Fans of Nigerian music reacted with excitement to the news, noting that being featured on Obama’s playlist is a sign of global relevance and cultural impact. The recognition by a global figure such as Obama reinforces the rise of African artists on the world stage and the universal appeal of their music. Commentators also pointed out that these inclusions could further open doors for the artists in markets beyond Africa, potentially leading to collaborations and expanded international tours.
This development comes at a time when afrobeats continues to surge in popularity worldwide, with streaming numbers and cross-continental collaborations growing each year. Nigerian artists have increasingly been included in global playlists, award nominations and international concerts, helping to establish the country as a powerhouse in contemporary music. The appearance of Burna Boy, Olamide, Seyi Vibez and Asake on a high-profile playlist such as Barack Obama’s summer selection signals another milestone in the global appreciation of Nigerian sounds.
About the Author
