Internet divided as Barack Obama names Beyonce's 'America Has A Problem' as one of his favorite songs of 2023

WASHINGTON, DC: Former President Barack Obama recently released his much-anticipated annual list spotlighting his favorite songs. Obama’s selections have become an expected year-end event providing insight into his evolving musical tastes and cultural opinions.

This year featured a surprising addition - American icons Beyonce and Kendrick Lamar’s searing political collaboration 'America Has A Problem.' By highlighting such a bold song critiquing systemic issues, Obama ignited fierce online debate about the reason behind his choice.

Beyonce's 'America Has A Problem' addresses systemic ills plaguing society

The song, which originally appeared in Beyonce’s album 'Renaissance', was later remixed with new verses by Lamar, having subtle references to issues like violence and drug abuse in America.

With oblique yet incisive lyrics, the track does not shy away from pointing out systemic problems plaguing society. Beyonce and Lamar critique issues like the normalization of violence and the disregard for human lives. By sharply addressing these societal ills, the song conveys an important message about the state of the nation.

By highlighting such a bold and critical song, Obama seemed to offer a commentary on the state of the country under his former vice president and successor, Joe Biden. While the two men remain allies, Obama’s pick suggested displeasure with the lack of progress on key issues.

Internet reacts to Obama's inclusion of 'America Has A Problem'

After Obama included Beyonce's 'America Has A Problem' in his 2023 favorite songs playlist, the Internet erupted with diverse reactions, reflecting a spectrum of opinions on the former president's choice.

Some criticized Obama by directly attributing responsibility to him for contributing to the problems mentioned in the song.

"And he helped create it," quipped one user on X, while another remarked, "How ironic of him."

"Except, he’s the one that fueled, therefore responsible for the 'problem'," one user stated firmly.

Another skeptic chimed in, declaring, "No way he sets the problem and liked America has a problem as his best song."

Amidst this wave of criticism, admiration for Obama's choice also surfaced. "HE IS SO REAL FOR THAT!" exclaimed one user.

Some drew a more positive inference, with one user describing Obama as "part of the hive".

One admirer reverentially commented, "Daddy president knows REAL music."

Obama's year-end songs playlist comes on heels of his 2023 movie list

While 'America Has A Problem' grabbed attention, Obama’s 2023 playlist contained his signature blend of music genres. He tapped UK rappers like Dave and Central Cee alongside country stars Zach Bryan and Kacey Musgraves.

Rounding out his selections were R&B singers 6LACK and Victoria Monét, as per The Independent.

This diverse palette has marked Obama’s past lists highlighting his favorite songs and films. Just a day earlier, his 2023 movie list highlighted picks ranging from biopic 'Rustin' produced by his own company Higher Ground to thought-provoking sci-fi like 'Oppenheimer'.

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