Tommy Richman found himself in hot water this week after he boldly rejected the “hip-hop” label.
The Virginia-born artist seemingly distanced himself from the genre via X on Thursday, nearly a week after he unleashed his debut studio album, Coyote. The record was preceded by Tommy’s breakout single “Million Dollar Baby” and its infectious follow-up “Devil Is a Lie.” Both cuts landed on the Billboard US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts, peaking at No. 1 and No. 9, respectively.
“I’m not a hip hop artist,” he wrote in a since-deleted tweet.
The post immediately caught the attention of DJ Hed, who announced his decision to remove Richman’s tracks from his Effective Immediately radio mix. He also called on other hip-hop DJs and stations to follow his lead.
“Fasho. So every Hip-Hop station playing MDB or DIAL should stop today. Thanks for the Heds Up.” the DJ wrote on X. “Glad I got the PSA before I did my radio mix,” he continued. “I now have 2 open slots. What should I play ? (From an artist proud to be Hip-Hop).”
Richman returned to X just minutes later attempting to clarify his original comment.
“I’ll say again, Im thankful for everything. I’m saying I don’t wanna be boxed in. I grew up on hip-hop. But I’m a singer,” he wrote. “I meant to say I’m not SOLEY a hip-hop artist.”
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DJ Hed gave Richman the benefit of the doubt while reminding the crooner to be mindful of his words.
“Understood, however there are nuances that can be perceived when statements are made,” he replied. “I don’t believe you have malicious intent but I do believe there is much to be learned about the system that you have entered within this thing we do. I hope it works out for you.”
