Transcript for:
Duki: Rise of a Latin Music Star

Duki - Detailed Biography Duki, whose real name is Mauro Ezequiel Lombardo Quiroga, was born on June 24, 1996, in the Almagro neighborhood of Buenos Aires, Argentina. From a young age, Duki showed a strong interest in music and hip-hop culture. He began writing lyrics and experimenting with beats as a teenager, inspired by international rap icons as well as local Argentine artists. His breakthrough came in the Argentine freestyle battle scene, particularly with his participation in the iconic competition El Quinto Escalón, which became a key platform for emerging urban artists in Latin America. Duki quickly gained recognition for his aggressive delivery, lyrical creativity, and charismatic stage presence. Winning the competition in 2016 gave him the exposure he needed to launch a professional music career. In 2017, Duki released She Don’t Give a FO, which went viral and marked a turning point in his career. The track introduced a new sound that blended Latin trap with melodic flows and auto-tuned vocals, helping popularize the trap genre in the Spanish-speaking world. He soon followed up with other successful singles, such as Hello Cotto, Rockstar, and Loca—the latter in collaboration with Khea and Cazzu, also major names in the scene. Duki is known for his versatility as an artist. His music encompasses a range of genres including trap, reggaeton, rap, pop, and even rock. Over time, he has evolved from freestyle rapper to one of the most influential figures in Latin urban music. He has released multiple albums, including Súper Sangre Joven (2019), Desde el Fin del Mundo (2021), and Temporada de Reggaetón (2022). In 2023, he surprised fans with his album Antes de Ameri, where he explored a more introspective and rock-inspired sound. Throughout his career, Duki has collaborated with global stars such as Bad Bunny, Bizarrap, J Balvin, Nicki Nicole, and YSY A, among many others. His appearance on Bizarrap’s Music Sessions (BZRP Music Sessions #50) broke streaming records and became one of his most iconic performances. Beyond music, Duki is seen as a cultural leader and a symbol of Argentina’s rising presence in the global music industry. His influence on the youth is undeniable, as he represents a new generation of artists who grew up online, built their careers independently, and achieved massive success without traditional industry support. With millions of followers on social media and billions of streams on platforms like Spotify and YouTube, Duki has firmly established himself as a major figure in international music. Despite his fame, Duki remains connected to his roots and frequently highlights his journey from the streets of Buenos Aires to the world stage. He is admired for his authenticity, work ethic, and ability to constantly reinvent his sound while staying true to his origins. His story continues to inspire aspiring musicians across Latin America and beyond.