Slick Rick Finally Becomes A U.S. Citizen

After 23 long years, Slick Rick, born Ricky Martin Lloyd Walters, finally a United States citizen. The British-born rap legend was sworn in as a naturalized citizen today (April 15).

“I am so proud of this moment – and so honored to finally become an American citizen, said Slick Rick the Ruler via a press release. “This has been a long time coming for me, and I am relieved to finally put this long chapter behind me. I want to thank everyone – my family, friends and fans – who have supported me and stuck by me over these 23 years. I am truly blessed – and stay tuned, I will have more to announce soon.”

Back in 1990, Slick was sentenced to jail in a self-defense shooting of his cousin that played out like his classic hit song “Children Story.”

Despite receiving an official pardon in 2008, by then-New York Governor David A. Paterson, MC Ricky D was repeatedly threatened with deportation—at one point he spent another 17 months in jail in Florida before being released in 2003.

Now Slick Rick need not worry as he is not only a U.S. citizen but he will also maintain his British citizenship.

See pic of Slick Rick shortly after his ceremony below and on the flip.

—