THE POETIC AND CINEMATIC TRIBUTE TO CULTURAL IDENTITY SHOT IN SOUTH LONDON PAYS HOMAGE TO THEIR SHARED BRITISH ROOTS
September 19, 2025 – Today, hip-hop’s most revered master storyteller and record producer Slick Rick and multi-hyphenate creative Idris Elba have dropped their new collaborative track and music video “Badman Generation” directed by Meji Alabi. The record is a new bonus release track from Slick Rick’s recently debuted visual album project, VICTORY.
The new music release is a powerful extension of the VICTORY visual experience, marking the first official collaboration between two globally recognized cultural forces—Slick Rick and Idris Elba—whose creative synergy transcends borders and generations with shared British roots.
Recorded at Idris Elba’s 7WALLACE Studios in London, “Badman Generation” marks the first official collaboration between the two UK-born visionaries. The music video, shot on the iconic Electric Avenue in South London, where Slick Rick grew up, serves as a poetic and cinematic tribute to cultural identity, forward-thinking artistry, and purpose-driven storytelling.
“Badman Generation’ is style, strength, and storytelling — rooted in the brotherhood between Idris and I infused with the grit and glory of South London – brought to life under the marque of Electric Avenue – home sweet home,” said Slick Rick.
“My generation of creation was born out of originality,” said Idris Elba. “This is actually who we are and what we experienced in life, our influences were us.”
Clocking in at four and a half minutes, this provocative piece is more than just a track — it’s a signal of what’s next. Brought together by fate and fueled by a shared commitment to innovation, Slick Rick and Idris Elba deliver bold, forward-thinking music offerings to the global stage. The song will be released as a limited edition 45 RPM record.
The music video is directed by Grammy award–winner, Meiji Alabii. The Nigerian-British director is known for his bold visual style that redefines the intersection of music, film, and culture. Known for his cinematic storytelling and global lens, Meji has crafted iconic work for Beyoncé, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Rema, Davido, and Stormzy.
“Badman Generation” arrives from the VICTORY visual album project released this past June celebrating 26 years since The Ruler’s last album. The project, executive produced by Slick Rick and Idris Elba, is collaboratively released by Idris Elba’s 7WALLACE record label and Mass Appeal Records. VICTORY is a sonic and cinematic tour de force that redefines the boundaries of storytelling, legacy and the power of imagination – continuing Slick Rick’s mission to elevate Black storytelling through sound, style, and soul. The project features powerful collaborations with Nas, Giggs, special contributions from Estelle, and striking visuals filmed across the U.S., the UK, and Africa for a cross-continental homage to Rick’s roots.
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