Master Shortie

Master Shortie

Master Shortie is the stage name of Theo Kerlin, a British hip hop artist, singer and MC from the United Kingdom. He is originally from Mitcham in South London and is associated with London hip hop, rap, UK garage and electronica.

Early life and background

Kerlin grows up around a wide range of music because his father runs an east London jazz bar during his childhood. He starts rapping at 12. He begins at The Kidz in the Biz Academy in South East London, then spends a short period at the BRIT School before leaving, saying it does not suit him. At 16, he enrols on a BTEC course at Nescot, studying music technology.

Career

He starts recording and producing his own teenage hip hop songs with producers and with an underground reggae singer called Sparky. In 2005, he supports American urban acts including ATL at venues such as the Hackney Empire, the Scala and Shepherd's Bush Empire. He is also asked to support Hadouken! on their UK tour because he shares the same management company.

Record label and recognition

Master Shortie establishes his own record label, Odd One Out. He is included in the Sound of 2009 poll.