Nigerian singer and songwriter, Simisola Kosoko, widely known as Simi, has achieved a major milestone in her music career as her hit single “Duduke” earns a Gold certification in New Zealand after surpassing 15,000 unit sales.
This achievement marks Simi’s first-ever international certification, reinforcing her influence as one of Nigeria’s most impactful Afro-pop artists whose music continues to travel far beyond the country’s borders.
Duduke continues to resonate globally
Released in 2020, “Duduke” quickly became a global sensation, admired for its soothing melody and emotional depth. The song doubled as a personal announcement of Simi’s pregnancy, instantly connecting with expectant mothers and parents around the world.
Its success was boosted by the popular “Duduke Challenge,” which saw thousands of fans, influencers, and celebrities worldwide creating heartfelt videos to the song. This helped solidify its position as a cultural moment in African pop music.
A cultural moment beyond the music
Such was the impact of the song that many fans affectionately nicknamed Simi’s daughter “Duduke,” although the singer later clarified that her daughter’s name is Adejare.
The song’s Gold certification reflects not just streaming success but the strong emotional connection listeners continue to have with it. It also signals Simi’s growing international presence and positions her for more global collaborations and opportunities.
A milestone for Simi and Nigerian music
Simi’s latest achievement proves once again that Nigerian music—beyond Afrobeats—has a thriving global audience. With “Duduke” crossing geographical and cultural boundaries, it opens more doors for her and further elevates the visibility of Nigerian female artists on the world stage.
This international recognition marks a new chapter for Simi, celebrating her artistry, storytelling, and universal appeal.