Ricky Martin Lloyd Walters, known to the world as Slick Rick, is a Hip-Hop Artist and GRAMMY-nominated performer who has pioneered what is celebrated today as the “Golden Age of Hip-Hop.” Rick began his career in 1983 as a member of Doug E. Fresh’s “Get Fresh Crew.” He has produced four albums and has collaborated with a range of musical icons, from Jay-Z and Missy Elliot to Outkast, Jermaine Dupri, Mos Def, Common, R. Kelly, Aaliyah and more. Rick’s music has been sampled and interpolated over 650 times by such artists as Eminem, Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Beastie Boys, TLC, Nas, Miley Cyrus, Kanye West, Black Star, The Notorious B.I.G., Snoop Dogg and Color Me Badd. In the process, he has become the most sampled Hip-Hop artist ever. Many of the new songs became hit singles, underscoring his timeless influence. In addition, Rick has been referenced in over 70 songs from the early 1990s to present day by recording artists such as Nicki Minaj, J Cole, Pitbull. will.i.am. Amy Winehouse, Big Sean and Future.
Rick is also an actor, music producer, and entrepreneur. Known for his fashion sense, Rick became the face of Pop-In at Nordstrom, an exclusive collection celebrating the heritage, history and future of MCM. He has also partnered with will.i.am to create collection of sunglasses for his brand, ill.i Optics. Rick has joined forces with Teespring to produce a limited edition white tee featuring representations of his best-known gold and diamond chains, as well as designing customized socks for Odd Sox. In addition to his many entrepreneurial endeavors, he partakes in many philanthropic events, partnering with various organizations to raise funds and awareness for underserved communities and devoting his time to mentoring youth on the dangers of violence.