Is this word racist?

[Brassx]

We had a vote on it awhile back, and the majority didn't think it was racist. The word itself has evolved into a more friendly meaning, although based on a racist word, that's not at all what it's supposed to be used as today. Of course if someone is using it to offend someone, it can be acted on, but if someone is being friendly about it, and not directing it at anyone with any malicious intent, is there any reason to be offended by it?(Especially if you use it yourself)