Too Short – Don’t Stop Rappin’

Description

“Don’t Stop Rappin'” is a seminal album by the legendary rapper Too Short, released in 1985 under the label 75 Girls Records And Tapes. This album marks one of the early full-length releases in Too Short’s extensive discography and is pivotal in the development of West Coast Hip Hop and the broader rap genre.

The album is packaged in a cassette format with a distinctive white (checkered shell), a common physical media format during the mid-80s, especially in the hip-hop music scene. The release of “Don’t Stop Rappin'” in this format underscores the grassroots and DIY ethos prevalent in early hip-hop culture.

Containing five tracks, the album showcases Too Short’s unique style and lyrical content, which would become his signature in the ensuing years. The title track, “Don’t Stop Rappin’,” sets the tone for the album, characterized by Too Short’s straightforward delivery and storytelling prowess, laying the foundation for what would become a hallmark of West Coast rap.

“Shortrapp” and “Playboy Short” further establish Too Short’s lyrical dexterity and his ability to narrate vivid street tales over simple yet catchy beats. The tracks “Girl” and “Female Funk” delve into themes of relationships and encounters with women, a recurring subject in Too Short’s later works.

Production-wise, the album was arranged by D. Hodges and T. Shaw (Too Short himself), featuring Linn drums played by the duo. This gives the album a raw and unpolished sound, indicative of the era’s emerging hip-hop production techniques. Keyboards by G. Levias and T. Shaw add a melodic element to the beats, while the engineering by H. Johnson ensures a sound quality that was impressive for independent releases of the time.

“Don’t Stop Rappin'” was recorded at Different Fur Studios and mastered at Fantasy Studios, which suggests a level of professionalism and ambition in Too Short’s early career. His involvement in writing, producing, and performing speaks to his multifaceted talent and hands-on approach to his music.

This album is not just a collection of songs but a crucial piece in the puzzle of hip-hop history, especially within the context of the West Coast scene. It exemplifies the beginnings of a rap icon, whose influence would grow to be monumental in the following decades.