Barack Obama has honored Oscar-winning Irish musician Glen Hansard following his shocking death in a motorcycle crash in Dublin.
The former president placed Hansard’s “Song of Good Hope” at the very top of his annual summer playlist, revealing that the track held special meaning for both him and former first lady Michelle Obama.
“Here are some of the songs I’ve been listening to this summer,” Obama wrote while sharing the 2026 playlist on social media.
“It starts with a song Michelle and I love by Glen Hansard, a great musician who passed tragically this week. Our hearts go out to his family.”
Hansard died this week at the age of 56 after a motorcycle crash in Dublin.
The celebrated singer-songwriter was best known to American audiences for co-writing and performing “Falling Slowly” in the acclaimed 2007 romantic drama Once. The song went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
“Song of Good Hope,” Obama’s first selection on the playlist, appeared on Hansard’s 2012 debut solo album, Rhythm and Repose.
Obama’s annual summer playlist has become an 11-year tradition, offering a glimpse at the music the former president has been enjoying. This year’s selections also include songs by Nina Simone, Raye, The Strokes and several other artists.
However, Hansard’s song received the most prominent spot, turning the popular playlist into a moving public tribute to the late musician and his legacy.
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