Early demo recordings of several songs were included on Hollywood Raw: The Original Sessions, while the reunited classic lineup of the band re-recorded a number of tracks for Greatest Hits and Black Beauties.

Critics highlighted the album as a standout of the 1980s "hair metal" scene, praising the balance of commercial compositions and heavier tracks.

Guns signed a recording contract with major label PolyGram in 1987, and changed its lineup significantly at the same time.

Recalling the process, Lewis reported that "We got the whole thing done in six weeks", adding that "we like that Sex Pistols type of edge and energy, so we decided to get in and out of the studio as quickly as possible.

"[5] Sessions took place at The Village Recorder in West Los Angeles with producer Jim Faraci, who had most recently worked with glam metal bands Poison, Lizzy Borden and Ratt.

"[5] "One More Reason", "Sex Action" and "Electric Gypsy" were released as singles, all with music videos directed by Ralph Ziman.

[7][8][9] Videos were also produced for "One Way Ticket" and "Cry No More" by Phillip Detchmendy,[10] and for "Bitch Is Back", "No Mercy" and "Nothing to Lose" by Ziman and Katy Lynne.

[11] The album was promoted on a three-month United States concert tour starting on January 15, 1988,[5] including dates supporting Ted Nugent and AC/DC.

The majority of songs were written by lead guitarist Tracii Guns with Lewis, while some feature co-writing credits for former vocalist Black.

Guns is the only studio album by the band to feature drummer Nickey "Beat" Alexander, who was replaced by Steve Riley before it was released.

[17] In 1999, the reunited "classic lineup" of the band recorded new versions of several songs for Greatest Hits and Black Beauties.

[14] Rivadavia also highlighted the balance between "Shit-kicking anthems" such as "No Mercy," "Sex Action" and "Bitch Is Back", and "more commercial but equally hot offerings" such as "Electric Gypsy" and "Down in the City".