The album was produced by Marcus Miller, who also played bass and keyboards on the record. Miller's influence is evident in the album's sound, which features synthesizers, drum machines, and other electronic instruments. The album also features collaborations with musicians such as George Duke, Omar Hakim, and Paulinho da Costa.

"Tutu" received mixed reviews upon its initial release, with some critics criticizing its use of electronic instruments and others praising its innovative sound. However, it has since been recognized as a landmark album in Davis' career and a pioneering work in the fusion of jazz and electronic music.

The album's success also helped to revitalize Davis' career, which had been in decline in the early 1980s. He went on to record several more albums before his death in 1991.