Barack Obama Allison Russell

Montreal artist Allison Russell is one of Barack Obama’s favourite musicians of 2021

The debut solo album by the local singer-songwriter has been nominated for three Grammys.

Two years ago, former U.S. President Barack Obama featured Kaytranada on his annual playlist of favourite songs, and this year another Montreal artist, Allison Russell, made his year-end music list with the song “Nightflyer.”

“Art always sustains and nourishes the soul. But for me, music and storytelling felt especially urgent during this pandemic year.

“I’ve always enjoyed listening to a wide variety of music, so it’s no surprise that I listened to a little bit of everything this year. I hope you find a new artist or song to add to your own playlist.

—Barack Obama

Barack Obama listed “Nightflyer” by Montreal singer-songwriter Allison Russell as one of his favourite songs of 2021.

Outside Child, the debut solo album by the local singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, poet and activist, which was released in May, has been nominated for three Grammys. The album was also featured on the Polaris Music Prize’s long list this year.

Barack Obama also shared his lists of favourite books and movies of 2021.

For more on Allison Russell, please visit her website.


For more Montreal music coverage, please visit our Music section.