Too Short, born Todd Anthony Shaw, is an American rapper, producer, and actor with an estimated net worth of $5 million. A pioneer of West Coast hip-hop, Too Short has built a legendary career spanning over three decades, known for his explicit lyrics, storytelling, and laid-back flow.
- Too Short Net Worth: $5 Million
- Date of Birth: April 28, 1966
- Place of Birth: Los Angeles, California
- Nationality: American
- Career: rapper, producer, and actor
Early Life
Too Short was born on April 28, 1966, in Los Angeles, California, and later moved with his family to Oakland. Raised by supportive parents who worked as accountants, Shaw developed a love for music early on. He attended Fremont High School, where he played drums in the school band, laying the foundation for his rhythm and flow in rap.
Music Career
Too Short began recording in the mid-1980s, distributing “special request” cassette tapes with a high school friend, Freddy B. With his father’s support, he gained access to a small studio where he recorded his debut album Don’t Stop Rappin’ (1985) at the age of 14. He became known for his explicit lyrics, including being the first rapper to prominently use the word “bitch,” which would become a recurring theme in his music.
In 1988, he released Life Is… Too Short, incorporating funk riffs into his beats. Over the years, Too Short collaborated with major artists like Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., Scarface, Jay-Z, E-40, Snoop Dogg, and Diddy, solidifying his influence in the hip-hop world. His 1999 album Can’t Stay Away featured numerous guest artists, while the 2006 release Blow the Whistle marked a resurgence, peaking at #14 on the Billboard 200. Subsequent albums include No Trespassing (2012), The Pimp Tape (2018), The Vault (2019), and a collaborative album with E-40, Ain’t Gone Do It / Terms and Conditions (2020).

Collaborations
Too Short has left a lasting impact on hip-hop culture, collaborating with some of the genre’s biggest names and helping shape West Coast rap. His music often explores street life, hustling, and the pimp lifestyle, earning him recognition as one of rap’s most notorious storytellers.
Acting and Media Ventures
Beyond music, Too Short has appeared in films such as Menace II Society and straight-to-DVD projects like Too Short Uncensored (2001) and Too Short Presents…Titty City (2003). He also made cameos in shows like The Game and music videos, including Jay-Z’s Big Pimpin’. Additionally, he starred in and produced music for America’s Sexiest Girls and appeared in documentaries such as Planet Rock. Too Short continues to run his record label, Up All Nite Records, and mentors at-risk youth through Youth UpRising.
Personal Life
Shaw married Erica Escarcega in 2000. He became a father in 2019 at age 53, welcoming a daughter named Yani Shaw.




