Barack Obama

Barack Obama Reveals Which Kendrick Lamar Song Is His Favorite Of 2024

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Barack Obama loves dropping year-end lists. He details which films, books, and songs impressed him most on an annual basis. Kendrick Lamar dominated the hip hop sphere in 2024, so he was bound to appear on the President’s year-end list in some shape or form. It was initially unclear which direction Barack Obama would take. He could have gone for the celebratory diss “Not Like Us,” or perhaps the meme-ified “tv off,” but the President decided to chart another path. He chose Kendrick Lamar’s L.A. anthem “Squabble Up” as one of his favorite songs of 2024.

“Squabble Up” delivered on months of anticipation after it was teased during the intro to the “Not Like Us” video. The Debbie Deb-sampling song peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. It makes sense that Barack Obama would choose “Squabble Up” out of Lamar’s chart-topping singles in 2024. “Like That” and “Not Like Us” were far grittier and combative, which directly clash with Obama’s chill and affable persona. The President did weigh in on the Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar battle a few months ago.

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Barack Obama Has Been A K. Dot Fan For Years

He praised Lamar’s lyrical ability and his overall message. “I do think that Kendrick has a unique status right now,” he told DeepCut. “Not just because of this summer… He’s not just gifted, he’s serious about the message… he digs deep into himself. He digs deep.” He didn’t clarify who he believed won the feud, but he actually picked sides as far back as 2016. The President told YouTuber Swoozie that he likes both Drake and Lamar music, but would ultimately choose K. Dot to win in a direct competition. “Gotta go with Kendrick,” Obama asserted. “I’m just saying, I think Drake is an outstanding entertainer, but Kendrick, his lyrics, his last album was outstanding.”

The admiration seemingly goes both ways. Kendrick Lamar met Barack Obama in 2016, and was highly complimentive of the President. He told Billboard he was overwhelmed when Obama told him how much he enjoyed To Pimp a Butterfly. “When [the President] said to my face what his favorite record was,” he recalled. “I understood that, no matter how high-ranking you get in this world, you’re human.” Another feather in Kendrick Lamar’s cap. No, Drake did not appear on Barack Obama’s year-end list.

Read More: Hip-Hop Albums That Grew On Us The Most In 2024

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Barack Obama Releases Statement On Donald Trump’s Victory In The U.S. Election

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Barack Obama, along with his wife and former First Lady Michelle, released a statement on the United States’ presidential election on Wednesday night (November 6). The 44th president congratulated Donald Trump on his victory as the soon-to-be 47th chief executive of the nation and also offered a message to Trump’s opponent, Kamala Harris. The convicted Republican candidate won the popular vote for the first time across his three campaigns for president, and his Democratic opponent spoke to voters on Wednesday. In the Obamas’ statement, they emphasized their will for a peaceful transition of power and their pride in Harris and her running mate Tim Walz’s campaign.

“We want to congratulate President Trump and Senator Vance on their victory,” Barack Obama and his wife Michelle expressed. “This is obviously not the outcome we had hoped for, given our profound disagreements with the Republican ticket on a whole host of issues. But living in a democracy is about recognizing that our point of view won’t always win out, and being willing to accept the peaceful transition of power. Michelle and I could not be prouder of Vice President Harris and Governor Walz – two extraordinary public servants who ran a remarkable campaign.”

Read More: Barack Obama Has Some Hot Takes About “The Big Three”

Barack Obama Shares Statement From Him & His Wife Michelle On 2024 Election

In addition, Michelle and Barack Obama thanked volunteers and staff who contributed to this election. Then, they spoke on the challenges of the United States over the past several years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuing inflation, “rapid change,” and hopelessness despite hard work. Specifically, the Hawaii native and his wife explained how the U.S. suffered a lack of trust in democratic incumbents that, on a worldwide scale, also received a negative impact based on these circumstances.

Finally, the Obamas affirmed the “good news” that folks can solve these problems through open ears, dialogue, constitutional values, and standards of democracy. Barack Obama wrote that full agreement on every issue is impossible in the diverse and large United States, and that “good faith and grace” even with folks that they staunchly oppose is what will lead to progress. He concluded his message by reflecting on the path forged so far and pointing to a future that builds a “more fair,” “more just, more equal, and more free” nation through this dialogue.

Read More: Barack Obama Raps “Lose Yourself” At Detroit Rally After Eminem Introduction

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Barack Obama Has Some Hot Takes About “The Big Three”

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Barack Obama was the most recent guest on the Deep Cut podcast with barber and media personality Vic Blends, and their conversation (which you can watch in full by clicking here) eventually led to his musical interests. More specifically, they spoke on “The Big Three,” everyone’s favorite talking point in 2024 a decade after the title was most relevant. Regardless, Blends shouted out J. Cole as his GOAT as a proud fellow North Carolina native. But the former POTUS had some hot takes – or omissions, we should say. He mostly focused on Kendrick Lamar, briefly referencing the Drake battle but also suggesting that there’s still an MC on top of all of them.

“Kendrick is a friend of mine,” Barack Obama remarked regarding the “Big Three” conversation. “I’ve been knowing him for a long time. He actually performed at the White House. I was the first, I think – I am pretty confident saying that not that many presidents were familiar with hip-hop before I was president. And I do think that Kendrick has a unique status right now, not just because of this summer. But he’s not just gifted, he’s serious about the message. He digs into himself. He digs deep. You’d enjoy Kendrick because when we get together, he wants to talk about fatherhood, those are the questions he’s talking about.”

Read More: Barack Obama Raps “Lose Yourself” At Detroit Rally After Eminem Introduction

Barack Obama Speaks On “The Big Three”

https://twitter.com/nfr_podcast/status/1851992196393660562

“I just talked to J [J. Cole] last week,” Barack Obama said of the Fayetteville lyricist, saying that he’s “very high on the list.” However, that’s when he revealed the rapper that he still thinks is on top, or at least, the one who holds the crown over any of the “Big Three.” “There’s a guy named Jay-Z from closer to my generation,” Obama posited. “Look, this is a lot like the MJ [Michael Jordan] versus the LeBron conversation, right,” he compared, pointing to all of their greatness.

Of course, there are other “Big Three” metrics to consider. Travis Scott, for example, is one of the top three most streamed rappers in the world, but he doesn’t fit in the historical and stylistic barriers of the Kendrick Lamar, Drake, and J. Cole conversation. If anything, Barack Obama’s words show that it’s more of an era-defining title than your absolute top three of all time. Both, though, are high praise.

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WATCH: Kamala Harris, Barack Obama, and Bruce Springsteen Kick Off “When We Vote, We Win” Concert Series in Atlanta

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In a spirited push to drive voter turnout across battleground states, Vice President Kamala Harris, former President Barack Obama, and Bruce Springsteen launched the “When We Vote, We Win” concert series tonight in Atlanta, Georgia. With early voting already underway, the rally highlighted what Harris framed as high-stakes decisions facing American voters in the upcoming election.

During her speech, Harris addressed the contrasting visions for the future, drawing attention to former President Trump’s pursuit of power. “So much is on the line in this election,” Harris said, emphasizing Trump’s focus on personal ambition over public service. She warned of the potential consequences if Trump were to regain the Oval Office, asserting that he would claim “unchecked and extreme power” if re-elected. Harris described a choice for Americans between Trump “writing up an enemies list” and her being “hard at work” on a “to-do list” for the nation’s needs.

Harris also criticized Trump’s role in implementing restrictive abortion laws, citing the tragic story of Amber Nicole Thurman and pledging to restore reproductive rights if elected. She emphasized the importance of John Lewis’ teaching on democracy: “Democracy is not a state; it is an act.” With that, she encouraged attendees to cast their ballots, stating, “Your vote is your voice and your voice is power.”

The Atlanta rally is part of a larger Harris-Walz campaign effort focused on mobilizing key voters across the country. This week, Harris has traveled to Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin, with plans to campaign in Texas and Michigan with Michelle Obama.

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Obama Raps Eminem’s “Lose Yourself,” Urgers Michiganders to Vote at Detroit Rally

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Of course, Barack Obama knows the bars about mom’s spaghetti. In Detroit, former president Obama was introduced by Eminem, who he stated set a perfect stage for him. How else could he open his speech? With “Lose Yourself” bars.

His palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy; there’s vomit on his sweater already….

After dropping bars, Obama spoke to the people of Detroit and Michigan, urging them to get out and vote in the upcoming election. Obama emphasized the sharp contrast between Vice President Kamala Harris, who has a clear plan to address rising costs and the needs of everyday Americans, and Donald Trump, whom Obama described as increasingly unstable with a track record of prioritizing tax cuts for billionaires.

His remarks follow a rally in Wisconsin earlier today alongside Governor Tim Walz. Obama is crisscrossing the country to energize voters ahead of Election Day. With high stakes in this election, Obama is focused on mobilizing the electorate to support the Harris-Walz ticket.

“The choice is clear,” Obama said. “We need a leader who is ready for the job, not someone who thrives on chaos and only talks about problems without offering real solutions.”

Obama’s speeches have been central to efforts to galvanize voters in key battleground states as the Harris-Walz campaign pushes to secure its path to the White House. With crucial issues like the economy, healthcare, and democracy on the line, Obama stressed the importance of participating in this pivotal election.

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Eminem Delivered A Surprise Endorsement Speech Of Kamala Harris During Her Recent Rally In Detroit

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Eminem Kamala Harris Rally Detroit 2024 (1024x437)
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Eminem has come a long way since his rebellious start in rap nearly thirty years ago. The “Somebody Save Me” rapper still lyrically packs a punch, but the soon-to-be grandfather also uses his sharp pen for civic engagement.

Today (October 22), Eminem made a surprise appearance at Vice President Kamala Harris’ rally. The event geared to drum up support for her presidential campaign also served as the ideal platform for Eminem to vocalize his support for Harris. In a semi-surprise speech (viewable here), Eminem officially shared his endorsement of the presidential hopeful.

“Detroit, What up doe,” he exclaimed. “So look, I wrote down a few things I wanted to say. I’m here tonight for a couple of important reasons. As most of you know, the city of Detroit and the whole state of Michigan mean a lot to me. And going into this election, the spotlight is on us more than ever, and I think it’s important to use your voice, so I’m encouraging everybody to get out and vote, please.”

He continued by saying: “I also think that people shouldn’t be afraid to express their opinions, and I don’t think anyone wants an America where people are worried about retribution, or what people will do if you make your opinion known. I think Vice President Harris supports a future for this country where these freedoms and many others will be protected and upheld. And here to tell you much more about that, President Barack Obama.”

After passing things off to Obama, the former president paid tribute to the hometown hero by rapping his song, “Lose Yourself.”

Eminem’s endorsement of the Harris-Walz ticket isn’t shocking to supporters. Back in 2020, the rapper endorsed President Joe Biden and Vice President Harris. He also authorized the use of “Lose Yourself” for their campaign.

This isn’t the only musician to endorse Harris. Billie Eilish, Finneas, Taylor Swift, Quavo, and Megan Thee Stallion have also thrown their support behind the presidential hopeful.

Barack Obama Performing Eminem’s ‘Lose Yourself’ Isn’t Something You Would Imagine, But It Happened At Kamala Harris’ Detroit Rally

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Vice President Kamala Harris’ recent rallies have been filled with celebrity cameos and musical performances. Today (October 22), the presidential hopeful’s event in Detroit, Michigan was a bit different.

Instead of centering a hometown hero’s endorsement, a special speaker paid homage to them in a rather cool way. During his time at the podium, former president Barack Obama performed a snippet of Eminem’s song “Lose Yourself” (viewable here).

“His palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy / There’s vomit on his sweater already, mom’s spaghetti / He’s nervous, but on the surface, he looks calm and ready / To drop bombs,” rapped Obama.

The authenticity of Obama’s playlist curation has been questioned in the past. But his admiration for Eminem’s beloved track long since documented.

Albeit flattering, Eminem has reportedly sent other politicians (Vivek Ramaswamy) cease and desist letter in the past for referencing his music in the past. However, his hatred for former president Donald Trump may tilt the scales in Obama’s favor. Plus, Eminem gave a thumbs up to Obama’s dramatic reading of the song’s lyrics suggests this time wouldn’t be any different.

On the other hand, another notable Detroit musician, Trick Trick (real name Christian Anthony Mathis), endorsed Trump.

So, fans can sort of consider the Motor City to be balanced.

Barack Obama Raps “Lose Yourself” At Detroit Rally After Eminem Introduction

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Barack Obama has relied on hip hop music throughout his political career. His playlists have become an annual tradition, and he has friendships with high profile artists like Beyonce and JAY-Z. It made all the sense in the world that Eminem, Detroit’s very own rap icon, would introduce Obama during the Harris rally on October 22. The two men have voiced admiration for one another in the past, and Obama paid the vote of confidence forward by performing a segment from one of Eminem’s biggest hits.

Eminem’s opening statement made it clear that he supported Kamala Harris for President. “I think Vice President Harris supports a future for this country,” he noted. “Where these freedoms will be protected and upheld.” He then passed the reigns over to Barack Obama, who walked out to Eminem’s classic hit “Lose Yourself.” The former President continued to heap praise on Harris, but he decided to spice it up by dropping a few lyrics. “Our palms are sweaty,” he yelled. “Knees weak, arms are heavy…” The crowd perked up at the recognition of the “Lose Yourself” verse, and joined in.

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Barack Obama Has Praised The Eminem Song For Years

Barack Obama’s love for this song has been well-documented. He talked about “Lose Yourself” during the promotional rollout for his 2020 memoir A Promised Land. He pointed to Eminem’s Oscar winning hit and JAY-Z’s “My 1st Song” as music that helped him through difficult times in his presidency during an IG interview. “When I needed some inspiration on the presidential campaign I often turned to music,” he noted. “It was rap that got my head in the right place.” He described both songs as inspirational. Eminem Shady co-signed the Obama shoutout and posted interview on his IG Story.

Barack Obama has remained steadfast in channeling his inner-Eminem. In 2016, footage surfaced of the former President gearing up to give a speech at the Democratic National Convention. He nodded intently to the song in the minutes leading up to his speech. Not everybody was thrilled with Eminem’s decision to co-sign Obama and Harris, however. Elon Musk, noted Donald Trump supporter, tweeted a withering insult about Em before the campaign rally got underway. He accused the Detroit rapper of being aligned with Diddy and being a “party participant.”

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Elon Musk Dubs Eminem A “Diddy Party Participant” In Scathing Tweet

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Eminem’s politics were on full display October 22. The rapper took the stage during Kamala Harris’ campaign rally in Detroit. He not only voiced support for Harris, but he introduced former President Barack Obama as well. The introduction plans were revealed shortly before the campaign rally took place, and this did not sit well with Elon Musk, evidently. The Twitter owner decided to take aim at Eminem by making a very bold claim about the rapper.

Elon Musk did not imply that Eminem was a close associate of Diddy, or attended Diddy’s “freak off” parties. He flat out stated out. He commented on a screenshot of the TMZ article confirming Eminem’s plans, and wrote: “Another Diddy party participant.” The comment did very little, however, since there’s absolutely nothing to link Eminem to Diddy or the mogul’s alleged crimes. In fact, Em has been one of Diddy’s most vocal critics for decades. The rapper has dissed the Bad Boy founder several times on record. He did so most famously on the 2018 MGK diss “Killshot.” “Kells, the day you put out a hit is the day Diddy admits that he put the hit out that got Pac killed,” Eminem rapped.

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Eminem Has Repeatedly Dissed Diddy Over The Years

There are no major public examples of Eminem and Diddy being close. In fact, one of Eminem’s closest friends, 50 Cent, has been the loudest Diddy critic dating back to the 2000s. Em and 50 continue to be close friends, and the latter even commented on Em’s newfound status as a grandfather. Elon Musk, on the other hand, has a more complicated history with Diddy. The Tesla titan has gone on record to state that he is close friends with Diddy. “I don’t know if you know this, but Puff is an investor in Twitter,” Musk was quoted as saying in the book Character Limit. “You know, he’s a good friend of mine. We text a lot.”

Elon Musk’s Twitter diss is far cry from his Eminem fandom in 2022. The controversial figure quoted Em when he was trying to take back control of his Twitter account from the SEC. Musk’s court filings alluded to Eminem’s “Without Me” song, and paraphrased it to read: “The [SEC] won’t let me be or let me be me so let me see…” Times have obviously changed.

Read More: Benzino Reveals Why He Wants To Be Friends With Eminem

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Eminem Will Introduce Barack Obama At Kamala Harris’ Rally In Detroit

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Eminem was already confirmed to appear at Kamala Harris’ campaign rally on October 22. The rapper announced that he would be attending, given that the rally will take place in his native Detroit. The part that was left out, however, was what Eminem would be doing. While it was speculated that Slim would perform or give a speech, TMZ revealed that he actually has a bigger responsibility. Eminem has been tasked with introducing former President Barack Obama and welcoming him to the stage.

The outlet stated that Eminem will introduce Obama and make a few comments about the election in totality. He will, however, perform. The rapper is in the midst of a tour, and CNN claims that he’s merely been tapped to speak. This is a still a pretty huge get for Harris. Eminem remains the best selling rapper of all time, and was the second best-selling male artist of the 2020s. He last album, The Death of Slim Shady, debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. It was the eleventh time he did so, which put him ahead of Michael Jackson all time.

Read More: 50 Cent Reveals Why Eminem Will Be The “Greatest” Grandfather

Eminem Showed Love To Barack Obama Back In 2020

Eminem’s endorsement of Kamala Harris makes sense, given his political history. The rapper granted permission for the song “Lose Yourself” to be used in a Biden-Harris ad from 2020. The rapper was also cordial to Obama when the former President did a dramatic reading of the song to promote his memoir A Promised Land. Obama praised “Lose Yourself” as an song “about defying the odds and putting it all on the line.” Eminem responded to the shout out by posting a screenshot of Obama’s video on his IG Story with the praying hands emoji.

Eminem’s support for the Democratic party is outdone only by his hatred for Donald Trump. The rapper has spent over a decade dissing the former President in song and in interviews. When asked about how he felt about Trump in 2017, he told New York Magazine he felt a responsibility to criticize the politician whenever he could. “I’m trying to get a message out there about him,” he explained. “I want our country to be great too, I want it to be the best it can be, but it’s not going to be that with him in charge.”

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