Too Short is the most well known rapper hailing from Northern California.

Todd Shaw was born on April 28, 1966 in Los Angeles and moved to Oakland at the age of 14. He started his rap career in early 80's rapping custom made tapes which were sold on the streets. Too Short released his first album in 1983 on local 75 Girls label and in 1987 signed to Jive Records, to which he remains signed. In 1996 Short moved to live in Atlanta. He has released 15 full length albums and is still active in the music industry.

Too Short was one of the first to represent the pimp/playa lifestyle in his lyrics. The phrase "Bee-yatch" is one of Short's trademarks.