Hip-hop legend Slick Rick has made a triumphant return to the music scene with his latest album, Victory, marking his first full-length project in 26 years. Known for his masterful storytelling, the English-born rapper has once again showcased his lyrical prowess, proving that hip-hop’s narrative tradition remains as powerful as ever.
Released on June 13, 2025, Victory is a visual album, blending cinematic storytelling with music. The project was four years in the making, with Slick Rick writing and recording between London and France, while the visuals were filmed across the United States, United Kingdom, and Africa.
The album features 10 tracks, with Slick Rick handling 95% of the production himself. It includes collaborations with Nas, Giggs, Estelle, and is executive-produced by Idris Elba. The project was released under Mass Appeal Records, co-owned by Nas.
Slick Rick’s storytelling has evolved with time, reflecting his personal growth and experiences. He emphasized that his music now explores mature themes, stating, “You was a young adult, then a middle-aged man, and now you’re an older man, so my mentality has to grow with it”.
The album incorporates hip-hop, reggae, and house music, reflecting Slick Rick’s diverse musical influences. He explained, “We’re not just hip-hop. We like reggae. We like house music. We go all over the place”.
Victory is accompanied by a 30-minute film, directed by Meji Alabi, known for his work with Beyoncé. The film debuted at SXSW London on June 7 and had its U.S. premiere at the Tribeca Festival on June 13.
Slick Rick described the visual album as a way to enhance the storytelling experience, stating, “This is like watching a movie. You want to expand the picture. Not only do you hear my voice and the music, but you get a visual picture as well”.
The album features Nas, who praised Slick Rick’s influence on hip-hop, saying, “Slick Rick and I have a long history of working together, so it was great to get back in the studio with him”.
Idris Elba, who co-produced the album, called the experience a personal milestone, stating, “Working with Slick Rick … back home in the U.K. and then offering the world of hip-hop something amazing has been a blessing”.
