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Veteran West Coast rapper Too Short has made waves once again with the surprise release of his latest single, “Still Mackin,” a bold and confident track that reminds fans and critics alike that he’s still very much a force in the rap game. Dropped earlier this week, the song marks the return of one of hip-hop’s most iconic and enduring figures, just ahead of his first studio album in half a decade: Sir Too Short, Vol. 1 (Freaky Tales).
Known for his unapologetic lyrics and smooth Bay Area flow, Too Short delivers “Still Mackin” as a message of longevity and authenticity in an industry often obsessed with youth and trends. Now 58 years old, the legendary MC hasn’t lost a step—and he makes that very clear on the track. “I thought you knew, I’m still rappin / Bitch, I’m still mackin,” he raps, his trademark bravado riding effortlessly over a heavy synth-and-bass-laced beat. “They say I got a foul mouth, I’m too controversial / I am who I am, no actin’ and no rehearsal.”
The new single is now available for streaming on all major music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal. And it’s not just a stand-alone release—it’s a precursor to a full-length album that marks a major milestone in Too Short’s decades-long career.
Too Short—born Todd Shaw—first rose to fame in the 1980s with his gritty lyrics, funky beats, and a unique brand of West Coast pimp swagger that made him an underground legend and later, a mainstream success. Hailing from Oakland, California, he’s one of the original pioneers of West Coast rap and one of the few artists who has managed to stay relevant across four different decades.
From his early hits like “Freaky Tales” and “Blow the Whistle” to high-profile collaborations with artists like Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., and E-40, Too Short has built a legacy on staying true to himself. He never chased mainstream trends, and instead carved his own lane with explicit lyrics, funky beats, and a philosophy rooted in street wisdom, hustle, and self-confidence.
With “Still Mackin,” Too Short taps back into that same raw energy. The title itself is a nod to his longtime moniker as the original “mack”—a term deeply associated with his brand and persona. The song’s production, handled with classic West Coast finesse, supports his unfiltered rhymes with a groove that blends nostalgia with freshness, appealing to both longtime fans and a younger audience discovering his music.
“Still Mackin” is just the beginning. The single is the lead-up to the much-anticipated release of Sir Too Short, Vol. 1 (Freaky Tales), which is set to hit digital platforms on Friday, April 18. This album represents his first full-length studio effort since 2019 and promises to deliver not only that signature Too Short sound, but also collaborations that bridge generations of hip-hop.
The album is produced by Ant Banks, a name that fans of 90s Bay Area rap will recognize immediately. Banks has a long-standing working relationship with Too Short, and together, they’ve created some of the most influential tracks in the genre. Known for his smooth G-funk and mob-style beats, Ant Banks’ return behind the boards is a strong signal that this album is rooted in legacy while still aiming for relevance in today’s fast-changing musical landscape.
But it’s not just Too Short and Ant Banks. Sir Too Short, Vol. 1 will feature appearances from major names including Snoop Dogg, Larry June, and King George. Each of these artists brings a unique flavor to the mix—Snoop Dogg with his laid-back West Coast cool, Larry June with his modern-day Bay Area hustle talk, and King George with his Southern soul and street sensibilities. These features suggest a project that is rich in regional styles and generational bridges—a celebration of the culture as well as a personal statement.
The title Sir Too Short, Vol. 1 (Freaky Tales) isn’t just a clever throwback. It carries significant meaning, especially given Too Short’s recent foray into film. Earlier this month, Freaky Tales, a feature film produced and narrated by Too Short, debuted in theaters. The film, which takes its name and inspiration from the rapper’s seminal 1987 track of the same name, is a high-energy action-comedy set in the gritty streets of Oakland in 1987.
The movie boasts a notable cast, including The Mandalorian’s Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Insecure’s Jay Ellis, and pop singer Normani in her acting debut. Too Short’s involvement behind the scenes is substantial—he doesn’t just lend his name but helped shape the narrative and tone of the film. It’s a love letter to a certain time and place in hip-hop history and to the city that raised him.
By aligning the film with his new album, Too Short is weaving together his music, his story, and his legacy in a multimedia way. It’s not just about dropping another project—it’s about reaffirming his status as a cultural icon, one whose influence continues to ripple through hip-hop history and the present moment.
Too Short’s return comes at an interesting time in hip-hop. The genre has evolved dramatically, with newer generations often leaning into melodic rap, auto-tune, or hyper-digital aesthetics. Yet Too Short remains rooted in a gritty, analog swagger that feels both timeless and refreshing.
That said, his ability to adapt while staying true to his identity is part of what makes this new release exciting. “Still Mackin” doesn’t sound dated—it sounds deliberate. It’s an artist who knows his voice, knows his audience, and knows exactly what kind of statement he wants to make.
In a world where authenticity is often traded for virality, Too Short’s latest track feels like a grounding force. It’s music for people who’ve lived through more than just algorithms and trends. It’s music that speaks to experience, grit, and endurance.
As fans gear up for the full release of Sir Too Short, Vol. 1, there’s growing speculation about what’s next. Will this album spark a full tour? Will there be a sequel to Freaky Tales on the big screen? And will we see more collaborations between Too Short and today’s newer artists?
Given his track record, it wouldn’t be surprising if Too Short continues to reinvent and expand his artistic reach. Whether it’s music, film, or culture, his voice remains distinct, and his message—about authenticity, hustle, and self-belief—resonates louder than ever.
And perhaps that’s the ultimate message of “Still Mackin.” It’s not just a rap song. It’s a declaration. A statement of identity. A reminder that legends never really leave the game—they just evolve with it.
