AceShowbiz - Tommy Richman, the Virginia-based singer known for his viral hit "Million Dollar Baby", sparked controversy with a now-deleted tweet in which he seemingly distanced himself from hip-hop. Richman's tweet ignited a back-and-forth with West Coast radio personality DJ Hed, who responded by saying that hip-hop stations should stop playing his music.

In an attempt to clarify his stance, Richman explained that he doesn't want to be solely labeled a hip-hop artist. He acknowledged growing up on the genre but emphasized that he's a singer. However, many hip-hop fans remain wary of white artists who use the genre as a stepping stone to other genres and relevance.

DJ Hed advised Richman to be mindful of the nuances of his statements and hinted at the potential for malicious intent. Richman responded by reiterating his gratitude and stating that he doesn't solely identify as a hip-hop artist.

Richman's tweet and subsequent clarification shed light on the complex relationship between race and genre within the music industry. His comments ignited a discussion about white artists in hip-hop and the boundaries of the genre. Whether or not Richman's intentions were malicious, his words have undoubtedly stirred a conversation about the role of race and authenticity in the world of hip-hop.