It's hard to overstate the importance of Too Short: the first major-label emcee to represent for Oakland, the father of pimp-rap, and the originator of the term "beeeyatch." He has influenced entire generations of artists (especially on the West Coast), released dozens of records over a span of more than 30 years, and still stays busy in the studio, constantly putting out new music and never trying to alter his signature style. While many of his songs are about loose women and shady characters, a closer listen will uncover a strong social consciousness, with vivid rhymes about the dangers of drug abuse and assorted pitfalls of life in the hood. Twenty-nine tracks deep, The Essential compiles most of his biggest hits, including early classics like "Freaky Tales" and "The Ghetto," the midcareer favorites "Paystyle" and "You Nasty," and the later singles "Shake That Monkey" and "Blow the Whistle." Whether you've been a fan since the '80s or are just getting into Too Short now, this is a stellar compilation that truly lives up to its name.