Slick Rick

There is much debate about who is the greatest rapper of all time. Honestly, I think it's whoever you feel it to be. No one can convince you who you think is best..can they? That being said, there is no debate about who the greatest hip hop storyteller is. As Slick Rick would echo, "there is no competition". Slick Rick's approach to rap was unique for a number of reasons. For starters, he didn't sound like anyone else we had ever heard. Originally from England, he later moved to the Bronx and eventually started his rap career. The half-British accent mixed with New York street slang was a hit with rap fans everywhere! I first got a dose of his flow on a song titled "The Show" which he did with Doug E. Fresh.

Another appealing feature about his rap style was that it was very colorful and animated. Throughout the album, he actually raps both as Slick Rick and the fictitious MC Ricky D. When Slick Rick rapped, you could see the story play out in your mind, not a detail to be missed. My favorite track on this album is "The Moment I Feared" which tells a quick witted rags to riches story and is very comical to say the least. Another one now deemed a hip hop classic is "A Children's Story". This is a perfect example of a great song marred by a poor video that doesnt' measure up. Have you seen the video? Don't bother...just enjoy the song.

The Great Adventures of Slick Rick showcased production by the late Jam Master Jay (Jason Mizell), Rick Rubin, Hank Shocklee, and others.

DJ Come of Age

Giving this album more praise is like beating a dead horse. You see the 5 star reviews and know how great Slick Rick is when it comes to his story telling abilities (except a few people, like the reviewer who doesn't know how to spell). What I believed is that Slick Rick was ahead of his time when he made this album, because no one could rhyme like he can (and people today still cannot do that). Everybody knows his huge classic single "Children's Story". My favorite from this album would be "Teenage Love" which is an excellent story about love. Other favorites would be the funny "Treat Her Like A Prostitute", "The Ruler's Back" (guess who made a cover of that song???), and the even funnier track "Lick The Balls".

Production here is great too. Handled by Slick Rick himself, Jam Master Jay, Hank Shocklee, and Erick Sadler, expect some nice production here. It may sound a little dated for younger ears, but trust me, you'll love it. Slick Rick opened the door for a new rhyme style in rap music. If you don't have this, you need to purchase this right away. Slick Rick would put together more excellent albums down the line, but everyone is going to remember him for this one here. Peace.

Lyrics: A+
Production: A
Guest Appearances: N/A
Musical Vibes: A+

Top 5 Tracks:
1. Teenage Love {personal favorite}
2. Children's Story
3. Lick The Balls
4. Treat Her Like A Prostitute
5. The Ruler's Back

How can we possibly forget about Slick Rick when we talk about great rappers? He is the greatest hip hop storyteller alive. Chlidren's Story, The Moment I Feared, Indian Girl, Mona Lisa, Kit(whats the scoop) and Teacher, Teacher further solidifies that claim. I guess you pay one hell of a price when you let TV and radio define to you what's hip hop. Aside from telling vivid stories, Slick Rick can also bring it to you on an MC level(Teacher, Teacher, The Ruler's Back) and can give it to you on a positive tip(Teenage Love, Hey Young World). Standout Tracks: THE RULER'S BACK, CHILDREN'S STORY(classic), THE MOMENT I FEARED(Slick Rick's finest moment), INDIAN GIRL(comical story with an ending that will leave you in stitches), MONA LISA, HEY YOUNG WORLD, TEENAGE LOVE, and TEACHER, TEACHER. Filler: NONE!!! Bottom Line: The Great Adventures of Slick Rick is definite requirement for any hip hop head who loved hip hop before it became S***hop. Slick Rick is not only one of hip hop's elite, he is also in the hip hop hall of fame. HANDS OFF ASSATA AND SLICK RICK!!!

Wow..wackest trash ive heard in a minute. How do yall think this cat is dope? Doesnt take alot of skill tow rite a rhyming story with no mettas or punches...

Go buy Some Gang Starr..some de la soul...some Wu...some gravediggaz..anything but this garbage

i am pretty sick of rap in 2007, so i go back to 88. it's great. i love it. simple, not too complex and not stupid. 5 stars for hip hop that i'll listen to all my life, even in 2234.

Released after his classic Great Adventures album, Slick Rick's "The Ruler's Back" is a classic in its own right. I'm guessing that since it had a different feel and vibe altogether than Great Adventures people put it back on the shelf. Big mistake. While not as solid a record as the groundbreaking "Great Adventures Of Slick Rick", this album is full of gems. Considering it was done while Rick was in jail, this is an exceptional album. Makes me wonder how great it could have been had he been out of jail. I remember seeing the videos for I Shouldn't Have Done It and Mistakes Of A Woman back in 1991 and thinking damn, these beats are off the hook. It wasn't until I bought the album years later (and by this time it was on CD, it was originally on cassette tape and vinyl) that I was able to absorb Rick's lyrical genius. Excellent production by DJ Vance Wright. The beats are really original and hip hop today should learn from it. From the uptempo I Shouldn't Have Done It, to the whimsical ditty Top Cat, to the slower and more serious Mistakes and Runaway, Rick delivers with an uncanny lyrical talent and his signature storytelling ability. No rapper out now can match Rick's lyrical ability or Vance Wright's original and innovative beats. Truly in a class by himself, Slick Rick in my opinion surpasses many of his peers who came out the same time he did. Do your ears a favor, buy all this man's albums and remember what real hip hop is supposed to sound like.

It would have been better if he was home at the the time. It's a pretty good album with uptempo bouncy beats.

Top Joints:
I Shouldn't Have Done It
Bond
Moses
Tonto
It's A Boy (The Joint)
Top Cat

Considering the circumstances surrounding this album, Slick Rick could be excused for phoning it in. Indeed, the prospect of phoning in his rhymes from the Island, and the unenviable task of following up an undisputed classic...why, that's a mighty cross to bear. Doesn't quite feel like a complete work, but the man hasn't lost his knack for narrative. The beats are dense, the drums so hard and fast they'd slap you like it was Tuesday. Large Pro on the ghost production? Extra P did officially contribute a non-LP remix of "It's a Boy". Me, I prefer the "Mr. Magic" sampling version here. "Moses" finds Rick kicking it OT style (that's old testament, baby) over a reggae break, and it's the obvious highlight. Yeah, there's a misstep or three. "Ship" just sucks, and that house remix of "Teacher Teacher"...what was Def Jam thinking? Still, it's a miracle this is anything but a disaster, let alone a decent record. A lost gem? Hardly. An uneven period piece that's worth a few spins? That's the ticket, man.

Although the first album smashed this one like porsche to a wall, i gotta say that with some very savvy lyrics he kept this one afloat barely. But i will give credit where credit is do, "Mistakes of a woman in love with other men" & i shouldn't have done it got my money and til' this day both cd's sit in my changer in prime condition. Hey! it's a young world....

Goodness. Rick, Rick, Rick, Rick...where have you been after your 'adventures' in your first album? This 2nd album not only proves that he can cut lyrics like a knife to butter but he can also bring unheard beats that till this day I wish someone back in the day can bring it back and show what TRUE rap music is!

From his epic song 'I shouldn't Have Done It' that described his actual TRUE story of killing someone to being a father on 'It's a Boy', Slick Rick proved he can stay in the game with his power with his rhyming. He even went as far as bringing his OWN way of telling a story from the BIBLE called 'Moses'!!!

Well class, what have we learned? We learned that Slick Rick flowed his energy into his music and made it into art. We also learned that although he had issues in his real life but he managed to even have faith with the man upstairs and paid homage to him.

As for your homework, I intend to you all to go out, look for this CD, buy it, listen to it, and tell me if it had put any sense into your minds of what TRUE hip hop was back then and what we wish it would come back.

Thank you class, now, you can go home!

slick rick may have out done himself here its hard to imagine him haven another album this good i think it might even be better then the great adventures. he did really well on who he would put on this album nas wu tang outkast what more do you whant. storytellin dies once nas is gone but hopefully the great hip hop storytellers will come back evrynow an then to drop a classic like this

the greatest come backs of the year I like about every song on this one it had gotten a whole lot of replay from me hot music!!!!

At first I was skeptical to buy it without hearing it first, but it came to be one of my favoriate albums. The downfall of this album is too many skits that does not move the cd along smoothly. The first song or track #2 "Kill Niggaz," Rick starts the cd off strong with the line, "Hoes ass kiss, 'cause I'm like Jason vision / releasing me a basket case from prison..." He adds color to all the tracks with his "singing" and descriptive vision of his lyrics. Just listen to "Adults Only," track #16. He puts a lot of rappers/emcees in check with "Impress the Kid," by saying "...girl catch this fever / and I don't need anyone else to rap with either / if this is based on skill / kill / anybody..." Slick Rick reigns as the Ruler. The most slept on and underated emcee/albums ever!

In 1999, Rick made a big return to the game with this effort, his first since being released from jail. I haven't heard "The Ruler's Back" or "Behind Bars," but this could legitimately be considered the follow-up to his historic debut "The Art Of Storytelling." The title of this is a little misleading, since Rick only tells a handful of his world-renown tales on this album. The rest of the album contains braggadocio, battle rhymes, and such. That sounds disappointing, but Rick wears the hat convincingly.
As much as I want to dislike Slick Rick the ruler, because of his arrogant attitude and his lack of respect towards women, I just can't hate him as I listen to his music. The man's just such a gifted MC, and he's been in the game since the mid-80's. He does curse more than ever on this album, and uses the p-word and similar words frequently, but his superior skill and assured cadence manifest throughout. He does drop a touch of wisdom every here and there, and even praises the Creator at some points. He's not one-dimensional. Rick leaves out talk about silly crap like cars, jewelry, drugs, gang activities, etc., but does include talk of two of his favorite pastimes: women and sex.
The first song, "Kill Ni***z," has him fantasizing about releasing all his pent-up rage right after being released from prison. Kinda interesting as he steps out of character. The next is "Street Talkin'"(w/ Big Boi) and it's about helping the kids grow to men. I like the chorus and the laid-back feel of this one. If you listen closely, "Who Rotten 'Em" is the best example of Rick's storytelling skills, and sits proudly next to his most famous tales. I think you already know what "Adults Only" is about, one of the most explicit and graphic songs EVER. But it's Rick, was anyone that suprised by it? It's definitely a forgettable one, as is the preceding "Why, Why, Why," which is done in the same(but not so graphic) spirit. "Unity"(w/ Snoop Dogg & Kid Capri) is a decent song about bringing both coasts together, and Snoop actually says something about Farrakhan and the Holy Koran(stick to your league Snoop, don't even try to step foot in ours!), and should technically be the last track. However, then you have a skit, then a second version of "I Own America"(with a better beat), another skit, a bonus song w/ Doug E. Fresh, then two live recordings with classic Rick and Doug E. Fresh joints, ending at 24 tracks.
The standouts are subjective to taste, but my favorites were definitely "2 Way Street," "Impress The Kid," the old-school throwback "I Run This," as well as the reminiscing "Memories" and "Street Talkin'." Other decent tracks include "Me and Nas Bring It To Your Hardest,"(w/ Nas) "Who Rotten 'Em," "King Piece In This Chess Game,"(w/ Canibus on the hook) and possibly "I Own America Part II." The production keeps it flowing throughout, some great points, but overall is simply decent. "2 Way Street" and "Memories" possess great beats that I can think of off the top of my head. Overall, this album is constantly laid-back and soothing. "The Art of Storytelling" falls a little short of classic, but was a strong and worthwhile return for Rick back to this thing we call Hiphop. Ricky D's mark will forever be left in the game.

Rick at his worst is still a 4star album..He's the best rapper ever by far..Its not even close..It's not hard to spit hardcore raps..anyone can do that..All those hardcore artists arent creative enough to do anything else..Rick is a Real Artist..These other bums just spit garbage compared to Rick..
The Art of Storytelling is Rick's worst album by far..buy the other 3 if oyur a true head...In 1988 I heard Slick Rick and haven't stopped listening to rap since..He has too many guest appearnaces and skits on this one..When I buy a Rick record i only want to hear Rick..I could care less about everyone else unless its a classic duet..Skits are just obnoxious..Everyone else just rhymes words and says nothing..listen to Rick if you wanna know how real rap should sound..There must be over 500 rap "acts" that are absolutely garbage..Its nice to know that Rick is still around..Also this album was recorded up state NY in the country which I believe Rick regrets. Ive read statements from him saying how he wants to remain in the Bronx cuz he feel syou lose some creative edge when you leave the environment that inpired you...BUY THE FIRST 3..FORGET THIS ONE

Slick Rick comes back in 1994 with another album amid judicial woes, the appropriately titled Behind Bars. I am not an expert on Slick Rick, for this is the only album I own by him, but he is entertaining. With production by Paul Huston, Vance Wright, Easy Mo Bee, himself, and some remixing by Warren G and Pete Rock, the beats are bass heavy and funky and will rock ya system. Ricky has a dope flow and adapts it well to the beats. He can definitely tell a story, and by listening to Warren G and Snoop Doggy Dogg on their albums, it is easy to see where the influence came from. Behind Bars (title joint) is phat and jazzy boom-bap, and the way he uses his voice and flow, it is almost like there is two of him rapping trading verses! His story is funny. The remix is a Warren G G-Funk beat with Warren G giving a west coast perspective of the county jail. "Sittin' In My Car" is funny too; I love the way he analyzes his relationships with women. Doug E. Fresh adds his slick beat box over a jazzy, soulful background, and his singin' in the hook had a dude rollin on the floor bustin' up! "A Love That's True" is another funny way Rick goes over his relationships with the ladies and wants a good relationship instead of the bad ones he goes through. The beat is lovably odd ball: bumpy, bouncy, with earth shattering bass and intermittent whistles. His relationship with women is a huge theme in this album. "I'm Captive" is mad energetic, and he seems to be stuck in wierd relationships. To really understand this album, you need to really pay attention to his oddball stories because if you miss a word, it will be hard to keep up. If you want an album full of funk and fun, this one is for you.

When I was 11 Slick Rick dropped "Great Adventures." Growing up in New York City in the 80's I was exposed to hip hop, and did like hip hop, but it wasn't until 94's "Behind Bars" that I TRULY got into Rick. When your 11, at least back then, hip hop wasn't as all pervasive as it is now. Remember, it wasn't really until 1986 with RUN DMC gettin down with Steven Tyler and crew that "rap" was even shown on MTV with any regularity! Well, needless to say I loved "Behind Bars" when it came out. I thought Rick's wordplay was fierce and it was THIS album that brought me back to his classic 88 debut. He recorded this on a work release furlough and although it's not his BEST album it still smokes. People were straight hatin on the Ruler and called this album trash. Everyone expected Rick to do a "Children Story 2" and that wasn't how he was living. Truth was that Rick was a convicted felon and went from on top to bottom of the barrel in a few short years. 1994 was an epic year for hip hop, so compared to Illmatic, Hard to Earn, TICAL, Street Level( don't you DARE sleep on the Beatnuts!!) of course it doesnt sound all of that, but it is still Slick Rick and i like the down and out Rick. I give it 3 and half stars but to this day i appreciate this album for turning me on to the best storyteller hi hop has ever, and will ever know.

When I tell people this one is my favorite, they laugh. I don't know why. Well anyway, its a shame that most rappers today lack a big imagination Like Rick. He tells a story like no other. The lyrics, and his flow is excellent. The prodution is pretty good too. Not club and house party type jams but they still hot. I like the whole album but my favorite tracks are; Behind bars(both versions), Its a boy, and cause its wrong. Recommended to those looking for something different from whats being offered today.

Slick Rick the Ruler pressed forward with the release entitled Behind Bars. Most of the tracks on here have been remixed before we could even judge the original ones. Rick doesn't stray from his storytelling, imaginative nature of rhymes. The heartfelt and reality striken "All Alone (No One To Be With)" gives a tale of life without love. He goes to back to his so called singing on "Sittin' In My Car" and "A Love That's True (Part I)". On "A Love That's True (Part II)" he comes with a reggae, freestyle flow. The never ending bounce and bass lick production by Greg Nice on "Let's All Get Down" has the Ruler flowing between the energetic Nice & Smooth. To end the lp on a high note "Behind Bars (Dum Ditty Dum Mix)" features Warren G and was also produced by him as well. This is definately the highlight Behind Bars! I gave this four stars and this is the weakest release by Slick Rick and that says everything.

THIS IS AN INCREDIBLE ALBUM..MUCH SLEPT ON BY CRITICS AND FANS..SEEMS LIKE MOST SLICK RICK FANS DISAPPEARED AFTER GREAT ADVENTURES..WHAT A MISTAKE..THIS IS REAL UNDISPUTED HIP HOP..RICK RECORDED THIS WHILE LOCKED UP..ITS STILL BETTER THAN ALMOST ANYTHING THAT COMES OUT TODAY..I'LL TAKE RICK AT 75% OVER JUST ABOUT EVERYONE ELSE AT 100%..NOONE CAN TELL STORIES AND CHANGE CHARACTERS LIKE RICK..AND HIS STORIES ARE NEVER WACK..GET THIS ALBUM IF YOU LIKE RICK..FORGET ABOUT GREAT ADVENTURES WHEN YOU LISTEN..PLAY THE WHOLE THING THROUGH AND RELAX TO IT..THERES ONLY LIKE 10 TRACKS..NOT AS UPTEMPO AS THE CLASSIC 2ND RELEASE THE RULERS BACK BUT STILL VERY NICE..HOLD ON TO ALL OF RICKS WORKS BECAUSE THEY WILL UNDOUBTEDLY BE A COLLECTORS ITEM..RICK IS THE ONLY RAPPER LEFT WHO DOESNT HAVE TO BE HARDCORE THAT STILL GETS RESPECT FROM EVERYWHERE..LONG LIVE THE RULER..CAN'T WAIT FOR HIS NEXT JOINT

I wasn't sure who "J Love" was before I bought this, but now I know. He is an idiot. Here is an album of Slick Rick doing his thing, only this guy yells "J Love in the house" over it every 15 seconds. Thanks for ruining a whole bunch of perfectly good old skool hip hop, J Love, I despise you.

This would be an incredible collection, I just can't handle J-Love ruining these tracks. It's like trying to watch a movie when the person next to you in the theater won't shut up. It doesn't matter how good the movie is, the experience is ruined. Hopefully at some point we'll see these tracks released without J-Love putting his name all over them.

Slick Rick is one of my favorites. J-Love, less so. I don't remember J-Love being all over these tracks back in the day, saying his name every 10 seconds like a copy-protection. It reminds me of that punk tagger in Beat Street ("Spit") who tags the beautiful spray paint murals the main character paints. Putting your name all over a superior artist's work doesn't steal that artist's thunder, it makes you look like a fool. Worse, J-Love doesn't even try to stay at the level of the recording in order to blend in... nah, guy's like 10 dB louder than anything in the track. Way to ruin some classic hip-hop, man. Anyway, Slick Rick's line's are still great, and if you can get past J-Love's intrusions, it's still a good record.

This compilation is definitely worth it! It doesn't include all of his greatest songs, however it is excellently mixed and has a lot of unreleased songs. If you're a Slick Rick fan you will definetly be pleased! This MIX is off da chain!