Succeeding in the music industry is no easy task, but one talented Indian singer may be on the path to international fame after securing a spot on Barack Obama’s best songs of the year playlist.

Sticking to tradition, the former American president took to Twitter to share a year-end list of his favorite songs of 2019. While the presidential playlist featured tracks from superstars such as Beyonce, Bruce Springsteen and Alicia Keys, there were several lesser-known artists who also made the cut – including Indian singer Prateek Kuhad for his single ‘Cold/Mess.’

Floored by the honor, Kuhad told his Twitter followers that he was amazed that the ex-president knew about his music.

“I didn’t think 2019 could’ve gotten better, but damn was I wrong,” he wrote.

This just happened and I don’t think I’ll sleep tonight. Totally flipping out. I have no idea how cold/mess even reached him but thank you @barackobama, thank you universe 🙂 I didn’t think 2019 could’ve gotten better, but damn was I wrong. What an honour. https://t.co/zwaJFIQLmC — Prateek Kuhad (@prateekkuhad) December 30, 2019

The endorsement from Obama seems to have already helped the Indian artist to attract new fans.

Who is this Prateek Kuhad ? Heard Obama listens to him!! pic.twitter.com/aTVjzrgUji — hum_bolega (@hum_bolega) December 30, 2019

Some commentators attempted to demystify how the former US president learned of Kuhad’s music, noting that the ‘discovery’ was likely thanks to a recommendation from an algorithm.

im like 90% sure Obama's recommendations are coming from an algorithm, that explains the Prateek Kuhad https://t.co/ki5kpU2AQn — Bisht Don't Kill My Vibe (@nah_im_abdulla) December 30, 2019

While Kuhad may be relatively unknown in the States, he has enjoyed considerable success in his native India. The music video for ‘Cold/Mess’ has received nearly 4.8 million views on YouTube.

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