Liberian artist Cralorboi CIC has sparked major debate in the music industry after declaring himself “001” and challenging fellow artists to a hits-for-hits competition.
Speaking in an interview with Sassy MC, CIC announced that he is willing to stake $25,000 USD on the contest, promising the cash prize to any artist who can defeat him in a showdown of hit records.
“If you think you are the 001, let’s go hits for hits. Anybody ready, I will put $25,000 down,” CIC said, while emphasizing his dominance. “I have a very huge discography. Basically, there is no Liberian artist that has a better discography than me. If you taking a four-hour drive, you can play CIC songs from start to end. I’m the 001. I’m the Commander-in-Chief.”
His bold remarks have drawn reactions from fans who argue that other heavyweights also deserve recognition in such a contest. Names like JZyno, the self-proclaimed “Global Boy,” and Eric Geso, widely celebrated for his string of hits, were strongly put forward by fans as possible challengers. Many also insisted that Christoph the Change, a rapper known for multiple classics and his significant contributions to Liberian music, cannot be overlooked.
Christoph, notably, became the first Liberian artist to single-handedly sell out the SKD Sports Complex, an achievement that remains unmatched. Despite his milestone, Christoph has maintained humility, rarely making boastful claims online, but his track record continues to speak for itself.
While CIC’s challenge has ignited excitement, it has also reopened debate about who truly deserves the “001” title in the Liberian music industry. For many observers, until another artist can replicate Christoph’s historic SKD feat, the crown of 001 will remain with him.