A rap legend breaks his 26-year silence—but can today’s fans keep up with the Ruler’s timeless flow?
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TOP 5
5. So You’re Having My Baby
In “So You’re Having My Baby,” Slick Rick spins a vivid tale of a surprise pregnancy that stems from a fleeting relationship. As he processes the news, he reflects on the emotional whirlwind that follows—uncertainty, street loyalty, drama, and the weight of responsibility. True to form, the storytelling is the standout element here, showcasing Rick’s ability to narrate complex situations with wit and depth. The gentle, soulful chorus adds a thoughtful contrast to the track’s raw content, while his punchy, unapologetically old-school rap style feels like a refreshing refusal to chase modern trends. It’s arguably one of the most memorable moments on the album.
4. Documents (Ft. Nas)
Nas played a major role in helping Slick Rick stage his long-awaited comeback, so it’s only fitting that he makes an appearance on this standout track. Backed by a beat featuring dramatic violin stabs, a solid tempo, and rich old-school hip-hop textures, Slick Rick opens with a verse that blends sly wordplay with gritty authenticity, touching on the pressures of being a British emcee navigating life in different environments. Nas follows with a sharp, commanding verse, comparing the track’s ruggedness to the sting of a fresh haircut splashed with alcohol. He also reminds listeners of his universal street respect, earned through his raw, unfiltered approach to life. Together, the legends create a track that feels timeless and tough as nails.
3. Angelic
In “Angelic,” Slick Rick glides over a gentle yet uptempo hip-hop beat, delivering reflections that span from the innocence of his youth to the chaos of modern times. While the production keeps things easygoing and smooth, Rick doesn’t shy away from reminding listeners that he can still get grimy if necessary. He also salutes his legacy, name-dropping the iconic “La Di Da Di” to reinforce his lasting influence. What truly makes the track stand out is his effortless delivery—laid-back, sly, and never pressed for time. The result is a chill, introspective vibe that feels timeless and incredibly easy to vibe with.
2. Landlord
Slick Rick’s Jamaican side makes a vibrant appearance on “Landlord.” The track rides a rich, reggae-infused beat that feels tailor-made for a summer BBQ—jerk chicken on the grill, Red Stripe in hand. While much of the album finds Rick using off-kilter flows that might not be for everyone, “Landlord” features a more accessible, straightforward delivery. His storytelling shines as he vividly paints the picture of surviving in the overpriced hustle of New York City. On top of that, he lays down one of the most memorable hooks on the project, giving the track replay value. This one’s a smooth standout that blends roots and realness in a way only Slick Rick can.
1. Stress (Ft. Giggs)
I f**king love “Stress” (Damn, I sound crazy). The track rides on an uptempo, ‘90s-style beat that feels straight out of Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing movie. Slick Rick attacks the track with a relentless, unorthodox flow, using the chorus to lay out all the reasons he’s mentally worn down, from loneliness to internal battles. In the verses, he finds glimmers of light in the form of vices—small sparks of excitement that keep him going. Giggs enters with his signature brooding style, detailing his own stress-relievers, like dangerous women and high-grade weed. The result is a gritty, honest anthem that blends pain and swagger effortlessly.
SONG BY SONG RATINGS
1. Victory Intro (N/A)
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While scrolling through Twitter after posting my New Music Friday picks, someone dropped a comment that caught me off guard: “Who is Slick Rick?” At first, it seemed wild. But then it hit me—his last album dropped 26 years ago. The person asking probably wasn’t even born yet.
For those who do know, Slick Rick’s new album is a vintage time capsule of what made him a hip-hop icon. The project is packed with slick storytelling, a fusion of house and classic boom-bap beats, and that unmistakable British-New York accent that slices through every verse like a legend reclaiming his throne. His rap style feels like it was pulled straight from a hip-hop vault.
Lyrically, Rick remains sharp and diverse. He reflects on New York life, pays homage to “La Di Da Di,” and even reminds us he’s still tied to the streets. The project flows well from top to bottom and feels cohesive as a body of work. But here’s the thing: for younger listeners, this album might not hit the same. Some of his verses are hard to decipher, and the old-school flows might feel jarring in today’s polished, Auto-Tuned climate. I’ll admit—there were at least five tracks where I couldn’t understand the points he wanted to make.
Still, this release is a historic moment in hip-hop. Whether it’s your cup of tea or not, you’re witnessing a legend add a new chapter to his legacy.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
