Some incredible news has arisen from the Slick Rick camp today (April 15).

As confirmed in a press release sent to BET.com, after a 23-year protracted legal process, Grammy-nominated artist Slick Rick has today become a legal American citizen.

“I am so proud of this moment – and so honored to finally become an American citizen,” said Slick Rick in the statement. “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.”

The legendary musician was sworn in as a U.S. citizen during an official ceremony in New York.

For some background, in 1990, the English-born rapper received a prison sentence for a self-defense shooting of his cousin, during which a bystander was injured. He later received a pardon in 2008 and now, years later, will be able to become a dual citizen by retaining his U.K. citizenship. 

Cheers to The Ruler!

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(Photo: Walik Goshorn/Retna Ltd./Corbis)