Generaly acepted for recorded songs is that "After The Ball" by Charles K. Harris was the first "tear jerker" bringing Harris $25,000.00 per week including sheet music sales. Others song writers saw the numbers, followed suit, and the "Parlour Era" of sad songs began on cylinders and then later on 78rpm discs followed at the turn of the last century. The Mechanically recorded Cylinders and 78's era ended in 1921 but the "tear jerker" had been born and continues. For those interested in these early recorded sad songs, check out Harris and what he wrought, as well as the Lester Levy sheet music collection. An early version of "Mary of the Wild Moore" from this time period indicates by sales the public's craving for sad songs in the various recordings of "The Fatal Snowstorm". Them's my two votes! :)

Mountain Tyme