<P> He notes too that "barbershoppers almost never speak of' singing' a chord, but almost always draw on a discourse of physical work and exertion; thus, they' hit',' chop',' ring',' crack',' swipe', and' bust .' Vocal harmony is interpreted as an embodied musicking . Barbershoppers never lose sight (or sound) of its physicality ." </P> <P> While the modern era of barbershop music is accepted to have begun with a 1940s revival, opinions as to the genre's origins vary with respect to race, gender, region and context . </P> <P> Historical memoirs and journalism indicate a strong tradition of quartet singing among young African American men, gathering informally to "crack up a chord". This was acknowledged as early as 1882, when a New York Age writer traced the development of singing as a home - grown amusement, arising from the exclusion of Blacks from theaters and concert halls . </P> <P> Barbershops have a long history of serving as community centers, where men would gather for a variety of activities . English "barber's music", for example, was described in the 17th century by Samuel Pepys as amateur instrumental music . In the United States, the role of the barbershop continued, particularly for African American men, who passed time there singing spirituals, folk songs and popular songs . This generated a new style, consisting of unaccompanied, four - part, close - harmony singing . Later, white minstrel singers adopted the style, and in the early days of the recording industry their performances were recorded and sold . Early standards included songs such as "Shine On, Harvest Moon", "Hello, Ma Baby", and "Sweet Adeline". </P>

Where did the term barbershop quartet come from