Obama’s iPod: Stones, Coltrane And Stevie Wonder

With the Democratic party lining up for what is most likely going to be a colossal ass-kicking in November, Jann Wenner’s left-leaning Rolling Stone decided the time was right to drag out a cover story on President Obama.
The interview covers the usual political/social issues, but, lucky for us, we are treated to yet another breakdown of what the President listens to on his iPod.

“I am probably still more heavily weighted toward the music of my childhood than I am the new stuff,” Obama tells RS.
“There’s still a lot of Stevie Wonder, a lot of Bob Dylan, a lot of Rolling Stones, a lot of R&B, a lot of Miles Davis and John Coltrane. Those are the old standards.”

That’s a solid list of artists right there, and one that must be applauded regardless of political persuasion.
What’s giving the RS interview extra news juice is that the president reveals he also has acquired “a little Nas and a little Lil Wayne” for his iPod collection.

“Thanks to Reggie [Love, the president's personal aide], my rap palate has greatly improved.”

I like to think when the president is pouring over the latest unemployment numbers, he has Lil Wayne’s “Got Money” playing on the presidential iPod in the Oval Office.
The president is quoted as to having about 2,000 songs on the iPod, which besides soul, jazz and rock n’ roll also features a great deal of classical music.

“I’m not a big opera buff in terms of going to opera, but there are days where Maria Callas is exactly what I need.”

I feel the same way, Mr. President.
The president does say a lot of other, non-music related things in the interview, which is essentially a direct address to his base. But leading with his iPod collection is far more interesting than the current state of the economy and upcoming mid-term elections.

“Music is still a great source of joy and occasional solace in the midst of what can be some difficult days,” said the president.

Considering all the nonsense and madness happening in Washington D.C. these days – from both sides of the aisle and everywhere in between – the president is right on message about music and its healing effects.