Barack Obama, the former US President, has, as always, released his list of favourite music for the year 2023 and is still looking for recommendations.
The list of about 28 songs from different genres has names like Meghan Thee Stallion, Tems, Tyla, Asake and Olamide, Davido, and Burna Boy.
Others are Victoria Monét, Big Thief, Teddy Swims, Blondshell, and many others. But let’s zoom into the Afrobeats chart-toppers among the favourites.
1. Tyla – Water
This selection needs no introduction. The South African singer and dancer has been on an upward trajectory since the premiere of this tune.
It combines genres, including Afrobeats, pop, R&B, and South Africa’s style of electronic dance music, Amapiano.
Related stories
Water has topped charts in many countries, leading Billboard‘s Rhythmic Airplay list by mid-December. It’s not surprising that the Grammy-nominated tune is on Mr. Obama’s playlist.
2. Davido – Unavailable
Coming from the Timeless album, this tune emerged as the most streamed Afrobeats song on Spotify in 2023.
The well-composed tune and associated dance moves are on the lips of many music enthusiasts as Davido maintains his position as King of Afrobeats.
3. Burna Boy – Sitting on Top of the World
Sittin’ on Top of the World” is a song by Nigerian singer Burna Boy, released on June 1, 2023, as the lead single from his seventh studio album I Told Them.
It’s official remix featuring Atlanta-based rapper, 21 Savage, was released on 23 June 2023. It reached No. 1 on the UK Afrobeats chart and No. 19 on the US Rhythmic Billboard chart.
4. Asake ft Olamide – Amapiano
Also eyeing the Grammys next year, Asake’s records have dominated the afrobeat scene. Making good use of the name of the genre Amapiano in the title of the song, the pulsating vibes of this tune have stayed with many people.
At this point, it is worth recommending his Lonely At The Top record also for Mr Obama. This and other Asake tunes have become anthems for many music lovers.
Asake has performed songs off his Work of Art album at many sold-out concerts in his home country Nigeria and abroad.
5. Tems – Me & You
Talented singer-songwriter Temilade Openiyi, known as Tems, came up with this impressive record which got her much attention.
This single released early in October has over two million streams on Audiomack and continues to record impressive figures on other platforms. Her fans, including Mr Obama, will look forward to more refreshing tunes in 2024.