Slick Rick breaks his decades-long silence with Victory, a star-studded visual album executive-produced by Idris Elba and featuring Nas.
Slick Rick returned to the spotlight Friday (June 13) with Victory, his first full-length album in more than two decades, featuring Nas and executive produced by Idris Elba, blending cinematic visuals with cross-continental Hip-Hop storytelling.
The 10-track project, released through Elba’s 7Wallace imprint, marks Slick Rick’s first album since 1999’s The Art of Storytelling.
Victory also arrives as a visual album, paired with a 30-minute film directed by Meji Alabi that spans the U.S., U.K. and Africa.
The visual component debuted at SXSW London on Friday (June 7). The U.S. premiere was held at the Tribeca Festival in New York on Thursday (June 12).
“Victory is all about perseverance, storytelling, imagination and evolution,” Rick said in a statement. “A visual blend of art and heart — a sonic journey that reflects where I’ve been and where I’m going. Victory isn’t just music — it’s a bold in your face statement, showcasing British artistry at its finest!”
Nas & Idris Elba Give Slick Rick His Flowers
The album includes guest appearances from Estelle, Giggs and longtime collaborator Nas, who praised Rick’s legacy and their creative reunion.
“Slick Rick and I have a long history of working together, so it was great to get back in the studio with him to create this new record,” Nas said. “He has been such an influential figure in Hip-Hop culture, and I look forward to him sharing this project with the next generation of fans.”
Elba, who helped shape the project behind the scenes, called the experience a personal milestone.
“Working with Slick Rick … back home in the U.K.,” and then ” he said. “Offering the world of Hip-Hop something amazing has been a blessing. It’s literally a gift!”
Victory is now available on all major streaming platforms.
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