Shyne Collaborating with Timbaland, Polow Da Don on New Music

The former Belize politician and rapper is working on his first album in over 20 years.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Shyne, the Belize-born rapper who rose to fame in the late 1990s before being deported, is back in the studio working on new music with acclaimed producers Timbaland and Polow Da Don. Shyne shared an Instagram post showing the trio in the studio, teasing that he's recording his first full-length album since being released from prison over 20 years ago.

Why it matters

Shyne's musical comeback is notable given his long absence from the industry. After his 1999 arrest and conviction, he was deported to his native Belize, where he pursued a career in politics before losing his seat in 2025. His return to music, especially with high-profile collaborators like Timbaland, signals a potential resurgence for the once-promising rapper.

The details

Shyne was signed to Bad Boy Records and released his self-titled debut album in 1999, but it was overshadowed by his legal troubles stemming from a 1999 club shooting involving Sean 'Diddy' Combs. After serving nearly a decade in prison, Shyne was deported to Belize, where he became the country's Music and Goodwill Ambassador and was later elected to the House of Representatives, serving as Opposition Leader. He lost his seat in 2025. Now, Shyne is back in the studio with acclaimed producers Timbaland and Polow Da Don, working on what he calls his 'second new Shyne album' in an Instagram post.

  • Shyne's self-titled debut album was released in 1999.
  • Shyne was released from prison over 20 years ago.
  • Shyne was elected to the House of Representatives in Belize in 2020.
  • Shyne lost his seat in the House of Representatives in 2025.
  • Shyne plans to celebrate his 25th anniversary with a concert in Brooklyn, New York on May 2.

The players

Shyne

A Belize-born rapper who rose to fame in the late 1990s before being convicted and deported, Shyne is now returning to music after a long absence, collaborating with high-profile producers.

Timbaland

A legendary music producer who has worked with numerous top artists, Timbaland is collaborating with Shyne on new music.

Polow Da Don

A successful music producer who has worked with many hip-hop and R&B artists, Polow Da Don is also working with Shyne in the studio.

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What they’re saying

“What's better than being in the studio with one of the GOATS @timbaland working on the new Shyne Album ? When one of the best ever @polowdadon stop in and I walk away with the second new Shyne Album…… You had to be there…….CLASSIC.”

— Shyne (Instagram)

What’s next

Shyne plans to celebrate his 25th anniversary with a concert in Brooklyn, New York on May 2.

The takeaway

Shyne's return to music after over 20 years, with the help of acclaimed producers like Timbaland and Polow Da Don, signals a potential comeback for the once-promising rapper who faced major setbacks in his career. His musical resurgence comes after a foray into Belize politics, underscoring his versatility and determination to reclaim his place in the industry.