Too $hort, born Todd Anthony Shaw on April 28, 1966, in Los Angeles, and later moving to Oakland, California, is a rapper and producer who is one of the pioneers of West Coast hip hop and has been a major influence in the rap industry since the mid-1980s. Known for his explicit lyrics and tales of street life and sexual exploits, Too $hort has an enduring career characterized by his distinctive, raspy voice and colloquial delivery.

Too $hort's career has spanned over three decades, marked by a prolific discography and an influential role in shaping the sound of West Coast rap. He began by selling custom tapes out of his car and eventually founded his own independent label, Dangerous Music, which later became Up All Nite Records. With over 20 albums to his credit, his hit songs like "The Ghetto" and "Blow the Whistle" have become hip hop staples. Still active in the industry, Too $hort has adapted to the evolving music landscape, collaborating with contemporary artists and exploring new sounds while staying true to his Oakland roots, as evidenced by his recent releases such as "Raider Colors," and "Ain't Gone Do It / Terms and Conditions." His legacy is not just in his longevity and consistency but also in the influence he’s wielded across multiple generations of hip hop artists.

Genres

Cali Rap

Gangster Rap

Golden Age Hip Hop

Hyphy

Oakland Hip Hop

West Coast Rap

Related Artists

Snoop Dogg

Ice Cube

E-40

Warren G

DJ Quik

MC Eiht

Mac Dre

Spice 1

The Notorious B.I.G.

Nate Dogg

Bun B

UGK

Latest Release

GIVE ME A BEAT!

LaRussell•

P-Lo•

Too $hort

Single - Released June 13, 2024