Too $hort has been rapping longer than some of us have been alive and may even be old enough to be your granddaddy!

An Oakland, California representer, Todd Anthony Shaw brought you hits like: The Ghetto, Freaky Tales, Blowjob Betty, I’m A Player, Gettin’ It, Way Too Real and Blow the Whistle.

We could go on and on until Christmas morning, but brevity is key. For those tardy to the party, did you also know that he played in the Jada Pinkett and Larenz Tate starred Menace II Society.?

Dude is a legend!

Add another feather to his cap: podcast host!  

His show, Too $hort’s Boombox,’ with Bobby Loco on PodcastOne, is the nation’s largest advertiser-supported podcast network. The podcast features conversations with Too $hort’s celebrity friends, social media influencers, moguls, and more. Add  Ice Cube, Russell Simmons, Snoop Dogg, Tech N9ne, Drumma Boy Fresh, G-Eazy, Sal Masekela, DJ Destructo, to name a few.

Additionally, each episode will also showcase exclusive Too $hort music.

In between taking over the world, Too $hort caught up with me and discussed why the word, bitch is still his favorite word and how he’s been able to maintain a level of independence in his music.

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University of Michigan sophomore Travis Jones III, 19, stands with his mouth taped shut with “#We Can’t Breathe”

The notion of a city being denounced from a basic human right to fresh, clean water is a concerning issue that not only needs to be addressed, but also apprehended in a pragmatic manner because retrospectively speaking, the progressiveness of our communities will certainly be impacted negatively; if we continue to live as voiceless victims of racial and economic divisions that plague our nation’s vitality.

The Flint Water Crisis should be used as a platform to create better opportunities, by addressing health issues and financial concerns; for those whom are explicitly impacted. As we look at the situation at hand, problems become much more confusing. Egotistical personalities have superimposed themselves on this city’s water disaster, which could ultimately generate a false reality of hope for the residents and other conscientious if we allow it to.

According to hip-hop mogul, Russell Simmons, “”It’s not a natural disaster but they should be able to do more. What’s happening here, this kind of environmental racism could be happening in many other parts of the county. If this were Beverly Hills, it would be a minute before we found out and a second before someone would be blamed and be brought up on charges.”

Although the water epidemic has brought new attention to the city of Flint, it most certainly isn’t a new concept. We’ve seen what celebrities’ persuasiveness, and a strong media presences can bring to a crisis situation similar to The Flint Water Crisis.

Ferguson Market & Liquor, Mike Brown was allegedly last seen here before his death; becomes prime destination for looters.

Today, urban communities around America are growing substantially. Pain and suffering has monetized an environment of joy; even through the face of tragedy, and with or without the presence of media attention. Residents young and old are becoming more educated in all things social justice, business development, while understanding public policies that affect the vitality of inner-city neighborhoods, to ensure measures of a quality life are given to everyone in these communities.

Darius Simpson, an Eastern Michigan University student from Akron, Ohio, carries water he brought to donate for Flint residents.

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“Pray For Me” serves as the debut offering from UK native recording artist Ikes’ long awaited “Outside|In” project. The cinematic small screen contribution was directed by Olan Collardy and inspired by the popular British crime drama series “Luther,” with starring actor Idris Elba. As the visual progresses Ikes is forced to make the tough decision of killing his former self in order to evolve into something entirely different. Watch as he embarks on an epic journey in Russell Simmons‘ All Def Digital: The SIGNAL presented visual.

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Recently, Def Jam celebrated its 30th anniversary in the world of Hip-Hop. Founder/producer Rick Rubin teamed up with Hip-Hop mogul Russell Simmons to create a label that set the standard for artist repertoire and for commercial success.

Like the saying goes, big things come in small packages. Rubin began scheming on what came to be the greatest Hip-Hop label of all time in a tiny NYU dorm room. In Rick Was Here, Rubin tells us about the parties he used to throw in his old dorm room, and having legendary industry people such as Adam Horovitz from The Beastie Boys pick out records in his dorm room. Check out the inspiring clip above and let us know what you think.

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The Combat Jack Show is known for having some of the most candid conversations with hip-hop greats. Last night’s special guest was hip-hop pioneer Russell Simmons, who is currently promoting his new book Success Through Stillness. He opened up about his early life, what it was like starting Def Jam, and the transition that not only hip-hop has made, but himself as well. People often forget the impact that Russell has had on the game, but after listening to this you will definitely be reminded. Listen below.

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The New Orleans emcee is quick on her feet creatively, which explains her mounting success in the digital music industry; 3D Na’Tee, will be joining forces with Russell Simmons to create content for Mr. Simmons’ new YouTube channel, All Def Digital.

SIGN THE NAACP PETITION HERE: http://www.NAACP.ORG

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