Nigerian singer and songwriter Simisola Kosoko, professionally known as Simi, has made history by securing her first international music certification. Her emotionally resonant single “Duduke” has been officially certified Gold in New Zealand after surpassing 15,000 units in sales and streaming equivalents, as confirmed by Recorded Music NZ.
Released in 2020, the track blends mid-tempo pop with Afrobeats and R&B influences, creating a soothing melody that has captivated audiences across continents. The song serves as a tender tribute to the artist’s unborn child, with lyrics that express the rhythmic connection between mother and baby.
The music video became a cultural moment when Simi proudly displayed her pregnancy, transforming a personal milestone into a celebration of motherhood that resonated globally. The visual accompaniment sparked the viral “Duduke Challenge,” encouraging fans worldwide to share their own creative interpretations and emotional connections to the song.
The challenge swept across social media platforms in multiple countries, amplifying the song’s reach far beyond Nigeria’s borders.
In a recent interview, the award-winning artist addressed the affectionate nickname fans have given her daughter, Adejare. “People call her ‘Duduke’ because of the song, and I know it comes from a good place, so I don’t overreact. But personally, I don’t like it because my daughter has a name,” she explained.
This certification represents more than personal achievement for Simi. It reflects the growing international impact of Afrobeats and solidifies her status as one of Africa’s leading female artists. The recognition in New Zealand, years after the song’s initial release, demonstrates the enduring appeal of authentic storytelling in music.
Industry observers have celebrated this milestone as evidence of Nigerian music’s expanding global footprint and the universal language of maternal love that “Duduke” so eloquently expresses.