Simi’s hit single 'Duduke' makes history with Gold certification in New Zealand

Simi’s “Duduke” Earns Gold Certification in New Zealand, Marking a Global Milestone

Nigerian singer-songwriter Simi has achieved a remarkable international feat as her 2020 hit single “Duduke” has been officially certified Gold in New Zealand her first-ever foreign certification.

The certification, awarded by Recorded Music NZ, recognizes sales and streaming equivalents surpassing 15,000 units, underscoring the song’s continued resonance with global audiences five years after its release.

Blending mid-tempo pop, Afrobeats, and R&B influences, Duduke became an instant classic upon its debut, winning hearts across Africa and beyond. The track’s emotional depth and tender lyrics were amplified by Simi’s personal revelation in the music video a loving dedication to her unborn child, which transformed the song into a cultural moment of joy and motherhood.

Beyond its lyrical intimacy, Duduke has come to represent the softer, soulful edge of the Afrobeats movement, helping expand the genre’s emotional and sonic range. Its Gold certification in New Zealand highlights not only Simi’s artistry but also the growing global appetite for Nigerian music and its ability to transcend borders.

Fans and industry figures have celebrated the milestone as a significant step for both Simi and the broader Afrobeats community a reminder that heartfelt storytelling, paired with authentic sound, continues to find a home on the world stage.