So, President Obama's Got a Workout Playlist. Let’s Rank Its Songs
First Lady Michelle Obama may be the White House occupant behind the Let's Move! campaign, but that doesn't mean President Obama is a slacker in the gym. POTUS is so into fitness he's got a must-use playlist for staying in shape—a list he shared with WIRED while guest editing our November issue. All the tracks are solid (hey, the guy knows good music), but we decided to rank his picks to see which best balanced great tunes with undeniable cardio motivation. Here goes!
https://open.spotify.com/user/wired./playlist/65I0seXpVmUyp5o2yrDC1K
“Get Me Bodied,” Beyoncé
As anyone who has survived a spin class will tell you, this is essential. It's got a pulsating beat that doesn't quit, Beyoncé's commanding vocals, and even starts out with a countdown to get you properly, preparatorily pumped.
SONY MUSIC“Live It Up,” the Isley Brothers
A drumbeat that feels like a heartbeat and a rubbery bass line that keeps the rhythm going makes this the perfect song just as you're hitting your stride.
T-Neck Records
“Sinnerman,” Nina Simone
Admittedly, most people don't think gym jams when they think Nina Simone, but POTUS is on to something. The almost-staccato piano and tip-tapping cymbals are perfect. Good luck not hearing Simone sing "I run to Barack" instead of "I run to the rock" from here on out.
Bethlehem“Emergency,” Icona Pop
When it comes to the best Icona Pop to dance to, "I Love It" is still No. 1—Girls proved that—but "Emergency" is great for athletic motivation.
Ten Music Group
“Let’s Get It Started,” Black Eyed Peas
There's a reason sports arenas still crank up this song more than a decade after its release.
A&M“Perro Loco,” Forro in the Dark
President Obama threw a curveball with this one, but he's right: This songs gets bodies in motion.
Nublu Records
“Off That,” Jay Z, featuring Drake
There are better Jay Z songs to workout to, but they don't directly reference POTUS, so...
Roc Nation“Elevator Operator,” Courtney Barnett
A solid track for the final push on the elliptical.
Marathon Artists/House Anxiety/Milk! Records/Mom + Pop Music
“Could You Be Loved,” Bob Marley and the Wailers
A lovely song, but a surprising workout choice.
Island“If You Love Somebody Set Them Free,” Sting
Sting is classic, and while a man known for his stamina belongs on any gym playlist, this maybe isn't the best workout song. That said, it certainly does sound like something Olivia might jog to on Scandal.
A&M
