Slick Rick and Idris Elba team up on new track ‘Badman Generation’

Slick Rick and Idris Elba have teamed up on new track ‘Badman Generation’, as well as sharing a new video for the track.

The dancehall-flecked song is a follow-up to Slick Rick’s album Victory, which arrived in June and marked his first record in twenty-six years. The project was also executive produced by Elba.

Now, ‘Badman Generation’ marks the first time the pair have lent their voices to a track together – alongside a video shot in Brixton which celebrates the pair’s mutual London roots.

“Two creatives, a visionary and a poet, anointed by fate, driven by purpose…dedicated to art,” reads a description at the start of the video.

“‘Badman Generation’ is style, strength, and storytelling—rooted in the brotherhood between Idris and I infused with the grit and glory of South London [and] brought to life under the marque of Electric Avenue—home sweet home,” Slick Rick said.

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

Describing Slick Rick’s latest album back in June, Rolling Stone UK said: “Talk about star-studded. Idris Elba, Giggs and Nas all make cameos on this first album from Slick Rick since 1999.

“Victory is all about perseverance, storytelling, imagination and evolution,” said Rick. “A visual blend of art and heart — a sonic journey that reflects where I’ve been and where I’m going. Victory isn’t just music — it’s a bold in your face statement, showcasing British artistry at its finest!”