Those who found themselves growing up in the golden era of Hip-Hop know very well just how impactful music was during the 90’s. After the mainstream breakthroughs of acts Run-DMC, and N.W.A in the late 80’s, an abundance of music began flooding from every part of the Untied States. Within that time frame, the World was introduced to artists such as The Fugues, Outkast A Tribe Called Quest, Biggie, Jay –Z, Nas, Eminem and the list goes on.
Specifically, in 1996, Dr. Dre dropped two albums, 2 Pac released his renowned album titled “All Eyez on Me”, and Snoop Dogg dropped “Doggfather.” In addition to these amazing West Coast projects, Too $hort dropped a 15-track album titled “Getting It on May 21, 1996, which later earned the Oakland artist a fifth Platinum plaque for his work. A classic Too $hort record is one that touches on street-related experiences, interaction with women, and money. On his “Getting It” album, Too $hort displays the impressive use of imagery while incorporating the rap style of Gangsta Funk. G-Funk is a subgenre of Hip-Hop that was created back in California during the 90’s. Artists who best display great examples of G-funk are Easy E, Nate Dogg, Warren G, Snoop Dogg, and of course Too $hort.
Upon releasing “Getting It”, Too $hort made it clear that this would be his last and final album due to the overwhelming amount of similar-sounding music that was coming out of California. After his album had dropped, Too $hort began doing various collaborative works with UGK, Jay-Z, and Biggie. But after three years away from the music scene Too $hort returned and dropped ten more albums before officially retiring. Despite his significant record sales and longevity as an artist, many still forget to mention Too $hort amongst the list of pioneers who helped shape West Coast rap. In honor of Hip-Hop in the 90’s and Too $hort, make sure you guys listen to a few tracks off the “Getting It” album. You’ll be surprised just how influential Too $hort’s sound has been on many of your current favorite artists.
