In 1985, two groundbreaking artists — Doug E. Fresh and a young, British-born MC named Ricky D (who would soon be known globally as Slick Rick ) — released two records that would forever change the landscape of hip hop: “La Di Da Di” and “The Show” along with the Get Fresh Crew (DJ Barry B and DJ Chill Will). Fusing Doug E. Fresh’s revolutionary human beatbox with Slick Rick’s unmatched storytelling, these songs were more than musical moments — they were cultural breakthroughs.

Coinciding with the 40th. Anniversary of the release Fat Beats is re-releasing a vinyl 12″ with exclusive content, a rare photo from Slick Rick’s personal archives and limited edition autographed copies.

“La Di Da Di”, with its clever lyrics and infectious melody, became a blueprint for lyrical style and verbal microphone dominance. “The Show” offered an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at performance life, capturing the spontaneity and energy of Hip Hop’s glorious golden era. Over the decades, both songs have been sampled, referenced, and revered by generations of artists. In fact, “La Di Da Di” and “The Show” are the most sampled songs in hip hop history with over 1,000 songs and counting. Their DNA can be heard in hundreds of tracks across decades influencing legends that created new age classics, The Notorious B.I.G, Snoop Dogg, Beyoncè, Beastie Boys, Miley Cyrus and countless others. These records didn’t just echo through time; they laid the very foundation for what creativity looks like in Hip Hop and culture today.

In 2024, “La Di Da Di” and “The Show” received one of the highest honors in American music from the Library of Congress. These recordings are part of the National Recording Registry, solidifying a place in history recognized for cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance.

With his sharp wit, visual storytelling, and an international perspective, Slick Rick brought distinctly British energy into rap music, reshaping the genre’s possibilities and helping to expand its global voice. Personifying the American Dream as an immigrant, Slick Rick used his talent, determination and drive to create an iconic career. Doug E. Fresh, already an established artist, was hesitant to put on an unknown MC but once he heard Slick Rick’s undeniable talent their partnership was official and their place in pop culture’s zeitgeist secured.

These records are more than classic tracks, they are works of art that helped define the language, rhythm, and imagination of hip hop. Four decades later their influence continues to shape music, inspire artists, and move audiences across the globe.