Barack Obama’s years-long tradition of sharing lists of his favourite playlists, movies, and books continues a tradition that’s become a cultural moment every year since 2009.
The swaggy political figure’s picks once again show his ear for global sound and cultural relevance.
The year isn’t over until Barack Obama drops his favorite works of art across film, music, and literature.
Posting on his X and Instagram accounts, the former US president wrote, “As 2025 comes to a close, I’m continuing a tradition that I started during my time in the White House: sharing my annual list of favourite books, movies, and music. I hope you find something new to enjoy, and please send any recommendations for me to check out.”
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. I hope you find something new to enjoy—and please send any recommendations for me to check out! pic.twitter.com/T9LFt5fnKG
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 18, 2025
As for music, the annual list spotlighted undeniable hits like Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra” and Alex Warren’s “Ordinary.”
Obama refused to take sides in the longstanding feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, instead honoring both Lamar and SZA’s “Luther” and Drake’s “Nokia.
The former senator shared the list across social media platforms, prompting one Instagram follower to playfully comment, “Putting Kendrick Lamar AND Drake on the list. A true president is always brokering peace.”
A second supporter said, “The best time of the year is seeing how in sync the president and I are.” A third individual remarked, “I love Barack Wrapped.”
Three Year Latterman said, “This is an atrocious list and is absolutely filled with profanity and other obscenities.
Venom on the other side said, “This list makes me cringe every year; the thought of PR people carefully curating the names, which gives him an edge lol.
Barack’s 2025 playlist once again proves he’s not just a fan of music but a curator of culture. From hip-hop legends to rising global stars, his picks reflect a deep appreciation for sound that moves the world.
He also dropped his annual favorites books including Michelle Obama’s “The Look,” “Made Cut,” and “Obviously I’m Biased.”
Other top books include Beth Macy’s “Paper Girl,” Susan Choi’s ‘’Flashlight’’ and Brian Goldstone’s ‘’There is No place for us.
Among the favourite movies top on the list wa One Battle after Another, Sinners, It Was Just an Accident, Hamnet, and Train Dreams, among others.