Its sound also became greatly influential in modern hip hop production, while the group members' explicit, humorous, and free-associative lyrics have served as a template for many subsequent hip hop records. The gritty, distinctive sound of Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) created a blueprint for hardcore hip hop during the 1990s, and helped return New York City hip hop to national prominence. Its title originates from the martial arts films Enter the Dragon (1973) and The 36th Chamber of Shaolin (1978). Recording sessions took place during early-to-mid 1993 at Firehouse Studio in New York City, and the album was produced by the group's de facto leader RZA. Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) is the debut studio album by American hip hop group Wu-Tang Clan, released on November 9, 1993, by Loud Records.