A modern rap music genius, Slick Rick’s legend precedes him like no others. Originally known as Doug E. Fresh’s vocal partner in the Get Fresh Crew, MC Ricky D’s (as he was then known) unforgettable performances on 1985’s double-sided single, “The Show” b/w “La Di Da Di” brought a new kind of hip hop hero to light. Suave, debonair and capable of both great poignancy and bawdy humor, Rick’s charisma wouldn’t actually flourish fully until the commencement of his own solo career. Highlighted by classics like “Children’s Story”, “Mona Lisa” and “Hey Young World”, 1988’s platinum selling The Great Adventures Of Slick Rick found the U.K. Expatriate/Bronx resident displaying a remarkable talent for wit-filled narratives like some lyrical crossbreed of Bob Dylan and Richard Pryor. And his influence on a generation of rappers-from Snoop Dogg to the late Notorious B.I.G.- continues to be felt through contemporary times.
Sadly, tragedy would strike before Rick could completely capitalize on the fruits of his success. A well-publicized incident that landed Rick in jail from 1990 through 1996 would form part of the subject matter of his next two releases-1990’s The Ruler’s Back and 1995’s Behind Bars (both recorded during stints outside of prison). However now, after three years comes news from the East that will warm the hearts of rap fans worldwide: with his new album, The Art of Storytelling, hip hop’s most storied storyteller, Slick Rick, makes his triumphant return.
But right now Slick Rick has another problem. Slick is being detained by the INS (The Immigration and Naturalization Service) in Florida over complications stemming from his previous arrest and conviction, regardless of the fact that he has served his time assigned to him for the crime committed.