Continuing his writing with songwriting partner Charlie Midnight,[2] the new material was marked by Hartman's desire to create an edgier recording.

[3] In recent years, the songs from the album have circulated unofficially on the internet, courtesy of Hartman's close friend Glenn Ellison.

"[7] White Boy is known to have definitely featured ten particular tracks via Ellison's tape as well as MCA vinyl test pressings, all written by Hartman and Midnight, although other recordings were produced around the time and these may have been intended to end up on the album, including "The War is Over" and "Shadow Boxing".

Only one song intended for the album, "Waiting to See You", was released officially on the original motion picture soundtrack for the 1986 film Ruthless People.

Midnight revealed: "The White Boy album was a result of Dan's continuing desire to create an edgier recording that would signify an evolution in his career as an artist.

"[2]When asked if he had a favorite composition on the official fan site, Glenn Ellison stated: "Gosh – there are so many, some of which were on the "Whiteboy" project that has never been released.