Nigeria’s Burna Boy makes Biden-Harris inauguration playlist

Nigerian Afro-fusion singer Burna Boy has made the official 46-track playlist by US President-elect Joe Biden and vice-president-elect Kamala Harris ahead of their inauguration on 20 January 2021.

Being the only African in the selection, Burna Boy was chosen for ‘Destiny’ off his 2020 album Twice As Tall, for which he earned his second consecutive Grammy nomination.

The playlist was put together by producer and rapper DJ D-Nice and actress Issa Rae’s Raedio in partnership with the Presidential Inaugural Committee. Burna Boy is joined by other international stars including Bill Withers, (‘Lovely Day’), Marvin Gaye (‘Got to Give It Up – Pt. 1’), Bruce Springsteen (‘We Take Care of Our Own’), Kendrick Lamar (‘Now or Never’), Bob Marley & The Wailers (‘Could You Be Loved’), Jill Scott (‘Golden’) and Dua Lipa (‘Levitating’), among others.

“During a tumultuous year that has kept so many loved ones apart, music has been a consistent vehicle that has kept us connected,” the chief executive of the Presidential Inaugural Committee, Tony Allen, said. “Whether you are a country soul, a jazz enthusiast, a hip-hop head, a classical sort, or just love that old-time rock and roll, music clarifies, inspires, unites, and heals.

“These songs and artists reflect the relentless spirit and rich diversity of America. They are the score to a new chapter and will help bring people together as the Biden-Harris administration begins its important work to unite our country.”

Raedio co-founder Benoni Tagoe said: “We know that music has the power to bring people together, and after a year of national challenges and division, we hope this collection serves as an indication of a new beginning, positive change, and a reminder that music of all types is a common language.”

Burna Boy has become a fixture on the playlists of high-profile politicians. In August 2020, he appeared on former US president Barack Obama’s summer playlist alongside fellow African stars Davido, Shatta Wale and Wizkid.