The album presents
hip hop in the setting of a live band. Vocalist
Tony M. raps on most of the songs and a variety of
segues throughout the album provide a humorous storyline about the recording of the album, as well as Tony M.'s sexual exploits. Many of the themes are about racism and other ills in the Black community. Prince plays a background role in the album, though he sings in character on the songs "Black M.F. In the House" and "Johnny". Both songs were played live in concert by Prince several times during this time period. The track "Call the Law" is older than most of the songs, being considered for release on an early version of 1991's
Diamonds and Pearls and later being released as a
B-side for a track from that album, "
Money Don't Matter 2 Night".
Rosie Gaines provides backing vocals for "Call the Law", although she left the NPG long before
Gold Nigga was compiled. The album was the first release after
Warner Bros. Records shut down
Paisley Park Records. The track "Guess Who's Knockin'" referenced
Paul McCartney's "
Let 'Em In" without credit. Probably to avoid any legal difficulties, the track was removed from second and subsequent pressings, making initial copies of the album even more highly sought after. ==Track listing==