About this album
Where they were
Released in 1988, 'The Great Adventures of Slick Rick' marked Slick Rick's debut album following his successful feature on Doug E. Fresh’s 'The Show.' At this point, he was establishing himself as a distinctive voice in hip-hop, known for his narrative style and unique fashion sense. The album solidified his status as an influential figure in the genre during its golden age.
Why it matters
The album is celebrated for its storytelling prowess and lyrical creativity, particularly with tracks like 'Children’s Story,' which became a classic. It peaked at number 31 on the Billboard 200 and was pivotal in shaping the narrative-driven style of hip-hop that influenced countless artists. The album's blend of humor and serious themes has made it a reference point within both pop culture and hip-hop history.
Essential tracks
- "Children’s Story" — 'Children’s Story' encapsulates Slick Rick's signature storytelling ability, presenting a cautionary tale that resonates across generations.
- "Mona Lisa" — This track showcases Slick Rick's playful lyricism and clever wordplay, becoming one of his most recognized songs.
- "Hey Young World" — With its motivational message aimed at youth, this track highlights Slick Rick’s ability to blend social commentary with catchy melodies.
- "The Ruler’s Back" — This opening track sets the tone for the album with confident bravado and a catchy hook that established Slick Rick’s persona.
Release Date
November 1, 1988
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 Treat Her Like a Prostitute 3:55
- 2 The Ruler’s Back 5:38
- 3 Children’s Story 4:02
- 4 The Moment I Feared 3:36
- 5 Let’s Get Crazy 3:51
- 6 Indian Girl (An Adult Story) 3:17
- 7 Teenage Love 4:53
- 8 Mona Lisa 4:08
- 9 Kit (What’s the Scoop) 3:22
- 10 Hey Young World 4:37
- 11 Teacher, Teacher 5:00
- 12 Lick the Balls 3:56
