The Art of Storytelling
Slick Rick · 1999
73 min · 24 tracks · hip-hop · East Coast hip-hop · old-school hip-hop
A vivid tapestry of storytelling woven through intricate beats and Slick Rick's signature playful yet poignant delivery.
Why this album works
This album is significant for its critical reception, featuring tracks that highlight Slick Rick's storytelling prowess, which has cemented his legacy as a pioneer in hip-hop narrative. It also includes collaborations with prominent artists like Nas and Q-Tip, underscoring its relevance in the late '90s hip-hop scene.
- Best for
- dynamic storytelling with playful delivery wave-like pacing with engaging highs immersive narratives for attentive listeners
- Context
- Released in 1999, 'The Art of Storytelling' came during Slick Rick's resurgence after a hiatus due to legal troubles. This album marked his first full-length project since 1994's 'Behind Bars', showcasing his unique narrative style that had influenced numerous artists in the hip-hop genre.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Joss Stone· The KLF· Ms. Dynamite· Jamelia· Lady Sovereign· Soul II Soul· Foreign Beggars· Young MC
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Jail Skit 1:20
- 2 Kill Niggaz 2:49
- 3 Street Talkin’ 3:41
- 4 Me & Nas Bring It to Your Hardest Standout 2:36
- 5 I Own America, Part 1 Standout 3:08
- 6 Bugsy Radio Skit 0:19
- 7 Who Rotten ’Em 3:28
- 8 2 Way Street 3:32
- 9 King Piece in the Chess Game 3:19
- 10 Trapped in Me 3:41
- 11 Impress the Kid 3:34
- 12 Q-Tip & Peter Gunz Skit 0:35
- 13 I Run This 4:08
- 14 Frozen 3:11
- 15 Why, Why, Why 3:22
- 16 Adults Only 4:16
- 17 Memories 4:05
- 18 Unify 3:58
- 19 Bugzy Radio Skit 0:17
- 20 I Own America, Part 2 3:30
- 21 CEO Outro 0:04
- 22 We Turn It On 3:35
- 23 La Di Da Di (live) Standout 4:36
- 24 The Show (live) 6:09
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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