Slick Rick & Idris Elba Unite on Powerful New Track “Badman Generation”

Hip-hop legend Slick Rick and multi-hyphenate star Idris Elba have officially joined forces for a brand-new collaboration. Today, the two UK icons dropped “Badman Generation”, a striking track and music video directed by Grammy winner Meji Alabi. The release arrives as a bonus offering from Rick’s recently unveiled visual album VICTORY.

Slick Rick - "Badman Generation" feat. Idris Elba (Official Video)

A First-of-Its-Kind Collaboration

Though both have long been cultural powerhouses in their own right, this marks the first official collaboration between Slick Rick and Idris Elba. Recorded at Elba’s own 7WALLACE Studios in London, the song and video highlight their shared British roots while pushing boundaries sonically and visually.

The video, filmed on the iconic Electric Avenue in South London—where Slick Rick grew up—serves as a cinematic homage to identity, resilience, and community.

What They’re Saying

For Slick Rick, the track is deeply personal:

“‘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.”

Idris Elba adds that the collaboration reflects their lived experience:

“My generation of creation was born out of originality. This is actually who we are and what we experienced in life—our influences were us.”

The Bigger Picture

Clocking in at just over four minutes, “Badman Generation” is more than a one-off single. It’s a glimpse of what’s next: music that blends heritage with innovation. A limited edition 45 RPM vinyl release is also on the way for collectors.

Meji Alabi’s bold direction ties it all together. Known for his cinematic storytelling, Alabi has worked with Beyoncé, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Stormzy, bringing a global lens to every project.

From VICTORY to the Future

The track emerges from Slick Rick’s VICTORY visual album, released in June—his first full project in 26 years. Executive produced by both Rick and Elba, the album arrived via 7WALLACE and Mass Appeal Records and features collaborations with Nas, Giggs, and Estelle, with visuals spanning the U.S., UK, and Africa.

With “Badman Generation,” Slick Rick and Idris Elba aren’t just making music—they’re making a statement. It’s a celebration of storytelling, originality, and Black creativity across borders.