Too $hort

Too $hort, a pioneer of West Coast rap, rose to fame with his explicit tales of sexual prowess and street life, culminating in the RIAA-certified gold album Born to Mack in 1988. His coolheaded, vulgar verses and funk-infused beats set him apart, leading to six consecutive platinum albums and collaborations with hip-hop icons like 2Pac, the Notorious B.I.G., and Jay-Z. Born Todd Shaw in 1966, Too $hort's early grassroots efforts in Oakland led to a major-label deal with Jive Records, propelling him to mainstream success with hits like "The Ghetto" from $hort Dog's in the House.

Despite a temporary retirement in the late '90s, Too $hort's comeback with Can't Stay Away and subsequent independent releases solidified his status as a Bay Area legend. With a prolific output including standout tracks like "Blow the Whistle" and albums such as The Pimp Tape, he continues to influence the rap scene with his raw storytelling and infectious beats. Too $hort's enduring legacy as a trailblazer in the genre remains unmatched, showcasing his unwavering impact on the evolution of West Coast hip-hop.