On January 18th, Brooklyn Bowl hosted a legendary celebration for the 60th birthday of hip-hop icon Slick Rick. Fans and special guests packed the venue for an unforgettable evening of surprises, classic tracks, and tributes to the pioneers of the genre.

The night began with an air of mystery as a masked DJ in a long coat and hat set up his equipment on stage. As the first notes of the famous “p-p-p-p-p Premier!” sound effect rang out, the DJ dramatically removed his mask and hat, revealing none other than DJ Premier himself. The crowd erupted in shock and excitement, as Premier, a surprise guest, warmed up the audience with a masterful set of hip-hop classics, including hits from his iconic group Gang Starr.

Following Premier’s electrifying performance, Slick Rick’s longtime DJ, DJ Kaos, took the stage. Kaos kept the energy high with a medley of hip-hop staples before surprising the audience further by bringing out Dana Dane for a two-song set. The crowd sang along, thrilled to witness the reunion of these two pioneers who shared a history from the early days of hip-hop.

Then, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived: Slick Rick himself stepped onto the stage. Dressed in a flashy white suit, sunglasses, and adorned with his signature oversized rings and watch, he captivated the audience from the first note. He opened with timeless classics like “La Di Da Di,” “Mona Lisa,” and “The Show,” reminding everyone why he’s regarded as one of the greatest storytellers in hip-hop.

After a brief interlude, during which DJ Kaos paid homage to late DJs who paved the way for the culture, Slick Rick returned to the stage, this time sporting his iconic eye patch and a massive diamond-encrusted necklace that shimmered under the stage lights. He launched into more beloved tracks, including “Teenage Love,” “Hey Young World,” and the immortal “Children’s Story,” with the audience rapping along word for word.

As if the night couldn’t get any better, Slick Rick brought out special guest Erick Sermon, who performed his hit “Music,” much to the delight of the crowd. But the grand finale took the celebration to an entirely new level. Hip-hop heavyweights Ralph McDaniels, the pioneering creator of Video Music Box, Busta Rhymes, DJ Premier, Erick Sermon, and others joined Slick Rick on stage. Busta led the audience in a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday,” creating a magical moment of unity and celebration.
Slick Rick 60th Birthday Celebration – Brooklyn Bowl, Williamsburg – Saturday, January 18, 2025
Setlist: Lick the Balls, Street Talkin’ I shouldn’t Have Done It, Mona Lisa, La Di Da Di, The Show, Teenage Love, Hey Young World, Runaway, Children’s Story



















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