Artist Guides, Best Song & Album Lists, Rankings

Too $hort Albums | A Guide to a Westcoast Discography (Updated 2023)

Too Short's Discography
Too Short | Shutterstock

Guide to Too $hort Albums | The Pinnacle of West Coast Rap

Too $hort, born Todd Anthony Shaw, is a Westcoast rapper who started his career in the early 1980s. Known for his explicit lyrics and funky beats, Too $hort has become a staple in the hip-hop industry, with his pimpin’ rhymes inspired by Iceberg Slim. What follows is a guide to Too $hort albums.


Early Career and Albums

Don’t Stop Rappin’

Too $hort’s journey began with his first album, Don’t Stop Rappin’, released in 1983. This album began his career, introducing his unique style to the world. Listen to part of the album below:

Players

His second album, Players, was released in 1985. This album continued establishing Too $hort’s presence in the industry, showcasing his lyrical prowess and unique style. Check out the rare snippet below:

Raw, Uncut and X-Rated

In 1986, Too $hort released Raw, Uncut, and X-Rated, his third album. This album further solidified his place in the industry with its raw lyrics and uncut style.


Rise to Fame

Born to Mack

Too Short’s fourth album, Born to Mack (1987), catapulted him to mainstream success, featuring the hit single “Freaky Tales.” The album solidified his distinctive sound, characterized by catchy basslines, smooth flow, and explicit lyrics.

Select Tracks:

Life Is…Too Short

In 1989, Too $hort released Life Is…Too Short, which became a major hit. This album further increased his popularity, making him a household name in the hip-hop industry.

Select Tracks:


Continued Success for Too Short

Short Dog’s in the House

In 1990 Too $hort released Short Dog’s in the House. This album succeeded commercially, further establishing his place in the industry.

Select Tracks:

Get in Where You Fit In

In 1993, Too $hort released Get in Where You Fit In. This album was another major hit, showcasing his versatility and talent.

Select Tracks:


Late 90s Too $hort Albums

Gettin’ It (Album Number Ten)

In 1996, Too $hort released Gettin’ It (Album Number Ten). This album was a commercial success, marking a milestone in his career.

Select Tracks:

Can’t Stay Away

In 1999, Too $hort released Can’t Stay Away. This album marked his return to the music industry after a brief retirement.

Read: Best of Too Short Songs: Nostalgia at Its Finest


Too $hort’s Albums (2000-2010)

You Nasty

Too Short’s discography in the 2000s was marked by a consistent output of albums showcasing his distinctive style. His first album of the decade, You Nasty was released on September 12, 2000, under the label Jive.

Select Tracks:

Chase the Cat

Chase the Cat was released in 2001. This album further established Too Short’s presence in the industry, showcasing his lyrical prowess and unique style.

Selects Tracks:

What’s My Favorite Word?

In 2002, Too Short released What’s My Favorite Word? This album’s raw lyrics and uncut style further solidified his place in the industry.

Selects Tracks:

Married to the Game

Married to the Game was released in 2003. This album continued to showcase Too Short’s unique style and lyrical content.

Selects Tracks:

Blow the Whistle

“Blow the Whistle,” released in 2006, marked a defining moment in Too Short’s discography. It rejuvenated his career and introduced him to a new generation of fans. The album’s titular single became an instant hit, showcasing Too Short’s unique ability to create catchy, memorable hooks and deliver his signature smooth flow over a pulsating beat.

The production of “Blow the Whistle” played a significant role in its success. The album was primarily produced by Lil Jon, a renowned producer, and rapper known for his work in the crunk music scene. His contributions brought a fresh, contemporary sound to the album while maintaining the essence of Too Short’s classic West Coast style.

“Blow the Whistle” featured a mix of party anthems, introspective tracks, and collaborations with other notable artists. The album included appearances by Snoop Dogg, will.i.am, and Rick Ross, among others, showcasing Too Short’s ability to work seamlessly with various musical talents. These collaborations expanded the album’s sonic palette and demonstrated Too Short’s versatility as an artist.

Standout tracks from “Blow the Whistle” include “Money Maker,” a bass-heavy anthem celebrating success and wealth, and “Nothing Feels Better,” a reflective, introspective track discussing the ups and downs of life in the music industry. In addition, the album’s variety of themes and styles solidified its appeal to a wide range of listeners, further cementing Too Short’s status as a rap icon.

“Blow the Whistle” represents a pivotal moment in Too Short’s discography, blending his classic West Coast sound with contemporary production and collaborations. The album revitalized his career and left an indelible mark on popular culture, showcasing Too Short’s music’s enduring appeal and influence.

Selects Tracks:

Still Blowin’

Still Blowin’ was released in 2010 under the label Dangerous Music. This album marked the end of Too Short’s output for the decade, showcasing his consistent style and lyrical content.

Selects Tracks:

 


Too Short’s Albums (2011-Present)

No Trespassing

In the following decade, Too Short released albums, starting with No Trespassing in 2012. This album began a new decade of music for Too Short.

Selects Tracks:

The Pimp Tape

In 2018, he released The Pimp Tape. This album continued to showcase Too Short’s unique style and lyrical content.

Selects Tracks:

 


Collaborative Albums

History: Mob Music and History: Function Music

In 2012, Too Short collaborated with E-40 on two albums, History: Mob Music and History: Function Music. Both albums were released under the label Heavy On The Grind, EMI, showcasing Too Short’s ability to collaborate with other artists.

Selects Tracks:

Snoop Cube 40 $hort

In 2022, Too Short, along with E-40, Ice Cube, and Snoop Dogg, formed the supergroup Mount Westmore. They released their debut album, Snoop Cube 40 $hort, under the label MNRK Music Group. This album showcases the talents of all four artists, making it a unique addition to Too Short’s discography.

Selects Tracks:

 


Conclusion

Celebrating the Impact of Too Short’s Albums

Too Short’s discography is a testament to his enduring talent and influence within the rap industry. From his early beginnings in Oakland to his mainstream success and ongoing contributions to West Coast rap, Too Short’s work reflects an unparalleled dedication to the craft. By exploring the various phases of his career, one can appreciate the depth and breadth of his impact on the musical landscape. As fans and music enthusiasts continue to discover and understand his discography, Too Short’s legacy as a West Coast rap pioneer remains secure for generations.

The Future of Too Short

As Too Short continues to create music and collaborate with contemporary artists, his discography is bound to evolve further, offering fresh sounds and perspectives while staying true to the essence of his style. Too Short remains influential in rap by embracing new trends and incorporating emerging talent. His discography is a shining example of artistic resilience and adaptability.

Ultimately, Too Short’s discography is an inspiring reminder of the power of authenticity, persistence, and innovation in the ever-changing music landscape. As we look forward to the next chapter in his storied career, we can’t help but be excited for the new heights that Too Short’s discography will undoubtedly reach.

FAQs

When did Too $hort start his career?

  • Too $hort started his career in the early 1980s.

What is Too $hort’s real name?

  • Too $hort’s real name is Todd Anthony Shaw.

What was Too $hort’s first album?

  • Too $hort’s first album was “Don’t Stop Rappin’,” released in 1983.

What is one of Too $hort’s most popular albums?

  • One of Too $hort’s most popular albums is “Life Is…Too Short“, released in 1989.

How many albums has Too Short released? 

  • Too Short has released over 20 studio albums, numerous compilation albums, and guest appearances on other artists’ tracks.

What is Too Short’s most popular song? 

  • One of Too Short’s most popular songs is “Blow the Whistle,” released in 2006, which became a viral sensation and cultural touchstone, further cementing his legacy in the rap world.

Which artists has Too Short collaborated with? 

  • Too Short has collaborated with many artists, including but not limited to Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., E-40, Snoop Dogg, and Jay-Z.

How has Too Short’s discography influenced the West Coast rap scene?

  • Too Short’s discography has significantly influenced the West Coast rap scene with his distinctive sound, storytelling abilities, and innovative production techniques. In addition, his music has inspired numerous artists to adopt similar styles and lyrical themes, contributing to the overall growth and development of the genre.

Check out a guide to Too Short’s best songs.

Read more from 92.5 The Beat.

 

To Top
Image Suggested dimensions: 490 × 200 Body Footer Sign up success message Pop-up Form Copy/paste onto your site After you embed the code to your site, any changes you make to your form can be published directly from the editor.