'Return of the Mack' Singer Mark Morrison Arrested for Battery in Florida

1:42 PM PT -- Mark Morrison’s attorney is calling the heated altercation between the singer and restaurant management "a racially charged confrontation."

Rick King, Morrison's attorney, tells TMZ ... the alleged shove was sparked by a dispute over an unpaid entertainment fee. King goes on to say, "However, it is important to acknowledge that this altercation between Mr. Morrison and the male employee of the Le Bar à Vin, Nicola Lavacca, arose in the context of a racially charged confrontation. At this time, Mr. Morrison and legal counsel are working diligently to ensure that the facts of the case are fully understood and appropriately addressed."

The attorney says Morrison is fully cooperating with authorities, and is confident that the investigation will clear up the situation and vindicate him from any wrongdoing. For now, Morrison is asking the public to withhold judgment until all the facts are presented.

"Return of the Mack" singer Mark Morrison got busted on a battery charge in Florida ... after allegedly striking the general manager of a swanky restaurant.

According to the police report, obtained by TMZ, Morrison stormed into Le Bar à Vin in Palm Beach on Saturday evening ... and started yelling and cursing at the venue's general manager. It seems Morrison was upset over an event he started planning with the venue on Friday.

Cops say witnesses told officers the situation escalated to the point Morrison allegedly pushed the manager in his upper body. Nicola Lavacca, the manager, did not fight back.

The report says a witness jumped in, separating the two and asked Morrison to step outside. Based on the evidence, cops arrested Morrison on a charge of simple battery.

In a photo we've obtained, Morrison is seen cuffed with his hands behind his back, sporting a black shirt, khaki shorts and bright yellow shoes.

The singer later posed for a mugshot in a blue jumpsuit ... and from the looks of it, doesn't seem too happy. He was released Sunday morning after posting $1,000 bond.