In 2008, Barack Obama famously showcased his diverse musical interests, ranging from Bob Dylan to Jay-Z, to Bruce Springsteen. Obama said that, growing up, he listened to Elton John and Earth, Wind & Fire but that Stevie Wonder was his ultimate musical hero during the 70s.

Bill Clinton was arguably the most musically talented head of state in history. He’s an accomplished jazz saxophonist, has been known to hang out with rock stars from time to time, and has even won two Grammys. After revealing his 20 favourite songs of all time, we learnt of his affinity for Van Morrison, Simon & Garfunkel, Elton John and Carly Simon.





Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo may very well be the world’s first head of state with a strong interest in Metal. Jokowi claims he owns every album by metal legends Metallica, and says the loud music helps clear his thoughts. His interest in heavy metal began in middle school and says he could not study for his forestry degree at Yogyakarta’s Gadjah Mada University without such music.

Barack Obama’s self-proclaimed taste for rap music had many conservative pundits feeling nervous. In a similar way, Jokowi’s admiration for metal music is seen by some as a departure from the image of traditional Indonesian politicians averse to modern music.

Strumming a bass guitar given to him by Metallica’s Robert Trujillo

Wearing a Napalm Death T-shirt





At the August 2013 Metallica concert in Jakarta

The smile says it all

Rocking out in Jakarta traffic

Wearing a Lamb of God T-shirt





Campaigning in September 2012

Throwing up a metal sign during a meeting with supporters

Leaving Bung Karno Stadium after the Metallica concert

Playing the air guitar

Singing on stage at British band Ankara’s concert

Crowd surfing like a true metalhead