Tommy Richman is not wasting time. He struck it big with “Million Dollar Baby,” which climbed all the way to number two on the Billboard Hot 100. He then struck again with “Devil Is a Lie,” which has getting lots of positive response from fans. Richman didn’t stop there. The R&B singer announced his plans to drop his debut solo album, COYOTE, in the next few months. He’s proven he isn’t a one-hit wonder in record time, and industry veterans recognize it. Russ is one of them, and he’s impressed.
Russ noticed that Tommy Richman’s album is on the way, and gave the singer his flowers. He praised Richman for not taking the standard one-hit wonder route of milking a hit and dragging out the release until interest in the artist fades. It’s something fans have seen countless times over the years. And it’s something Russ has worked tirelessly to avoid in his career. “He’s moving with a sense of urgency,” the rapper tweeted. “Capitalizing on momentum. Unlike a lot of artists who catch 1 song and parade around for a year and then miss their moment. Kudos to him and his team.”
Russ Applauded Tommy Richman’s Work Ethic
Russ has valued work ethic above all else throughout his career. It’s what allowed him to find success as an independent artist. It’s also why he felt compelled to compliment Richman. Russ talked about the big part that momentum plays in an artist’s career during a 2018 interview with Forbes. “You can’t sit around waiting for someone to come along and help you out,” he asserted. “I was always focused on doing the work, and in turn, that attracted the right people. I’m a true believer that when you’re doing the work… the right people are going to be placed in your path at the right time.”
Funkmaster Flex was someone who failed to see Tommy Richman’s vision. He dismissed the singer upon hearing his breakout single on the radio. “Remember,” he told listeners. “If you’re someone that likes this song, you are a clown.” He dismissed “Million Dollar Baby” as a throwaway. He walked back his criticisms when he heard Richman’s second single, though. Funkmaster Flex tweeted about the premiere of “Devil Is a Lie” on Hot 97, and assured fans that he actually “liked” this song. If Richman can win over skeptics like Flex, and polarizing personalities like Russ, he’s going to have a long career.
About The Author
Danilo is a writer based out of San Diego. He graduated from the Art Institute of Tucson with a B.A. in digital media, and has since forged a career as a pop culture journalist. He covered hip-hop for Heavy.com, Rhyme Junkies and PopMatters prior to joining HotNewHipHop.com. Danilo’s top five is constantly changing, but Biggie and Slug from Atmosphere remain permanent fixtures. His favorite rap album of all time is “Late Registration” by Kanye West, and that stays the same.
