Bob Dylan – $350 million
Bob Dylan, an influential folk and rock musician, started recording music in the 60s. His distinct voice is instantly recognizable with timeless hits like Blowin’ in the Wind and Like a Rolling Stone. Still considered a leading voice of the 60s protest movement, many would say Dylan’s massive $350 million fortune is well deserved.
The Edge (U2) – $400 million
A man never to be seen without his distinctive beanie hat, The Edge (real name David Evans), has an impressive $400 million in the bank thanks to being part of the mega group U2. The Irish guitarist made friends with his bandmates in their Dublin high school after seeing a note pinned to a noticeboard seeking members for a new band.
Gene Simmons (Kiss) – $400 million
Kiss frontman Gene Simmons’ rise to fame and a fortune of $400 million is truly the stuff American dreams are made of. Born and raised in Israel, Simmons lived an impoverished childhood. He moved to the US at the age of eight with his mother, herself a Hungarian Holocaust survivor, and went on to form one of the world’s biggest and most successful rock groups.
Sting – $400 million
Gordon Sumner, better known to fans around the world as Sting, was always determined to make it to the top. Growing up in England, Sting desperately wanted to escape his low-income upbringing. Joining bands throughout school, bandmates noticed him wearing a black and yellow striped hoodie and said he looked like a wasp, so the Sting nickname stuck. 17 Grammys later and he’s worth $400 million.
Keith Richards – $500 million
A founding member of The Rolling Stones, Richards has seen it all and done it all in the rock and roll game. Continual touring has earned Richards half a billion dollars and after performing to sold-out crowds for over 50 years, he shows no signs of stopping. Once admitting to snorting a line of his deceased father’s ashes, you don’t get much more rock and roll than Keith Richards.
Bruce Springsteen – $500 million
The Boss Bruce Springsteen, who once dodged the draft for the war in Vietnam by acting insane as an early act of protest, has gone on to become one of America’s greatest artists. Racking up $500 million along the way, Springsteen’s marquee album Born in The USA has gone 15 times platinum selling over 30 million copies.
Elton John – $500 million
The man who brought us Your Song and Candle in the Wind, Elton John is without doubt one of his generation’s best musicians. Never known for writing his own lyrics (he leaves that up to long-time writing partner Bernie Taupin), Elton has still pocketed a whopping $500 million. Elton has performed for royalty, presidents and his adoring fans since the 60s, yet in 2023 he announced his retirement from public performances.
Jimmy Buffet – $600 million
With $600 million in the bank, guitarist Jimmy Buffet certainly wasn’t wasting away down in Margaritaville. Plying his musical trade in the bars of Bourbon Street, New Orleans in the 60s and 70s, Buffet would go onto build a booming restaurant and bar business known as Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville.
Herb Alpert – $850 million
Sitting atop the pile as one of America’s richest musicians is legendary trumpeter Herb Alpert. Enjoying massive success in the 60s with Herp Alpert and the Tijuana Brass, he would go on to make his real fortune when founding A&M Records alongside Jerry Moss in 1962. Alpert would then sell A&M for $500 million in 1989, helping him to amass a cool $850 million fortune.
Paul McCartney – $1.2 billion
Who else but Beatles co-founder Paul McCartney to top this list? The story of the Beatles is legendary, they literally shaped the industry as a whole, breaking and setting records as they went. With over a billion records sold, the Beatles are untouchable in terms of numbers and the same goes for McCartney’s personal fortune of $1.2 billion. A billionaire Beatle? Hey, not bad for a lad from Liverpool.
Jay-Z – $2.5 billion
According to Forbes’ real-time billionaire list, rapper record producer, and entrepreneur Jay-Z (Shawn Corey Carter) has a net worth of $2.5 billion. The husband of A-list singer Beyoncé is the founder of Roc Nation and was the president of Def Jam Recordings until 2007 which definitely contributed to his massive wealth, alongside the sale of streaming platform Tidal.
Sean Combs – $1 billion
As the second richest player in the hip-hop industry, Sean Combs (otherwise known as Diddy) is astonishingly wealthy. Many financial organizations estimate that P. Diddy will become a billionaire in just a few years due to his burgeoning acting career, his fashion venture, his partnership with a vodka brand, and the launch of Revolut TV.
Madonna – $850 million
If you’re at all familiar with the singer Madonna, then you will not be surprised at the mountain of wealth she’s sitting on. After decades in the industry, Madonna is worth $850 million. She’s been named the annual top-earning female artist by Forbes eleven times and has an art collection worth at least $100 million.
Dr Dre – $500 million
After one of the deals of the century (selling his audio products brand Beats to Apple in 2014 for $3 billion), it’s no surprise that rapper and producer Dr. Dre is worth $500 million in 2023. His net worth seems to be on an upward trajectory as well, so he’s one worth that might cross into billionaire status in the near future.
Emilio Estefan – $500 million
While renowned across the world for his contribution to Latin music, Emilio Estefan is much more than just a musician. Estefan is an author, an entrepreneur, and an investor, owning multiple hotels and restaurants as well as a minor ownership stake in an NFL team alongside his wife Gloria Estefan.
Taylor Swift – $780 million
If you experienced the magnitude of the Eras tour or the hype behind the rerecordings, then you’ll understand the powerhouse that is Taylor Swift. The singer-songwriter is the recipient of fourteen MTV Video Music Awards and became the first female artist in history to reach 100 million monthly Spotify listeners. Swift’s net worth of $780 million is only set to increase.
Celine Dion – $800 million
Her heart will go on, and so will her cash flow. Singer Celine Dion is a phenomenal talent with a net worth of $800 million after decades of working in the entertainment industry. The 55-year-old earned a lot of her fortune from her Las Vegas residencies and the 15 concert tours that grossed over $1.1 billion.
Andrew Lloyd Webber – $1.25 billion
A true household name, and well-respected composer, it’s no surprise that Andrew Lloyd Webber is a certified billionaire. With an estimated salary of $100 million annually that’s only set to climb. Without Webber, we wouldn’t have Evita, The Phantom of the Opera, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, or Jesus Christ Superstar.
Rihanna – $1.7 billion
Umbrella singer Rihanna, became America’s youngest self-made billionaire in 2022 at the age of 34. Much of Rihanna’s $1.7 billion fortune comes not from music, but cosmetics and fashion with her brands like Savage X Fenty and Fenty Beauty dominating multiple industries.
Dolly Parton – $670 million
While many celebrities may invest their wealth into high-end fashion, large mansions, and extravagant parties, Dolly Parton chooses to spend more philanthropically (while also enjoying grand fashion, gorgeous grounds and a good time). The singer’s biggest financial asset however is Dollywood – the family amusement park owned by the country music star.
Julio Iglesias – $600 million
With a list of accomplishments most people could only dream of, including being a former professional football player and the most successful Spanish singer in the world, it makes sense that Julio Iglesias would be included in the richest musicians of all time. The Spanish songwriter and father of Enrique has a net worth of $600 million.
Kanye West – $500 million
In 2022, Kanye West (now known as Ye) would have topped the list of richest musicians in the world. However, Ye’s net worth dropped from $2 billion to just $500 million in the space of days when he lost his lucrative deal with Adidas, amongst other professional deals, for sparking controversy online. He does, however, still have incredible wealth from his decades as a recording artist.
Mariah Carey – $320 million
Every Christmas the jokes roll around about how Mariah Carey will be stuffing her pockets with all the royalties she makes from ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’, but it’s not far from the truth. Forbes estimated in 2022 that the singer may more than half a million from royalties of that song alone, bumping up her $320 million net worth.
Beyoncé – $540 million
After one of the most impressive careers of all time, it’s unsurprising that Beyoncé has a net worth of over half a billion dollars. The 42-year-old singer and actress gained her fortune through her entertainment career as well as her entrepreneurial skills. Forbes has estimated that her Renaissance tour could net her a whopping $2 billion.
Barbra Streisand – $415 million
Utterly iconic, Barbara Streisand is a true legend in her field. As a singer and actress, she’s earned her title as EGOT (holding an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony award) and made millions of dollars. At the age of 81, she currently has a net worth of $415 million, which is a far cry from the near poverty she experienced as a young child.
Jennifer Lopez – $400 million
Jenny From The Block may not have forgotten where she came from, but she’s definitely not living in the same neighborhood. Jennifer Lopez is currently worth $400 million, making her richer than her ex-boyfriend (former baseball star Alex Rodriguez) and her current partner (actor Ben Affleck).
Lady Gaga – $350 million
Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta (professionally known as Lady Gaga) is a multi-talented performer and business owner who has smashed all expectations. During her Las Vegas residency, it was reported that she earned $1.5 million per show and her makeup brand Haus Labs was the third-best-selling celebrity makeup brand of 2020.
Justin Bieber – $300 million
At one point in the 2000s, Justin Bieber was the biggest star in the entire world. There wasn’t a magazine you could pick up without his face somewhere on the pages. So it’s no shock that the popstar is a multi-millionaire, with a net worth of $300 million. That’s more than enough money to fund his luxury lifestyle of expensive cars, mansions, and holidays.
Drake – $270 million
With a nickname like Champagne Papi, Drake’s $270 million fortune isn’t a surprise to anyone – the Canadian-born star is one of the richest rappers in the world. Drake began his career appearing on ‘Degrassi: The Next Generation’ before beginning to release music in 2005. He’s now gone on to sell more digital singles than any artist in the world.
Mick Jagger – $520 million
As the lead singer of a band as famous as The Rolling Stones, if Mick Jagger wasn’t sitting atop a fortune it would be a surprise. The vocalist has amassed a wealth of $520 million since beginning his career, largely from songwriting, performing, acting, and touring – making him the richest member of the band.
Ringo Starr – $350 million
The wealthiest drummer in the entire world, Ringo Starr is worth a whopping $350 million. While not the richest member of The Beatles by far, Starr has amassed massive wealth and a range of accolades that would be mind-blowing to most musicians. Starr has even been inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Jon Bon Jovi – $410 million
As of 2023, musical artist Jon Bon Jovi has a net worth of $410 million. Since the 1980s, the frontman of the rock group Bon Jovi has been a musical pioneer, and in the 90s he began his acting career appearing in The Leading Man. As well as continuing to perform and tour, Jon Bon Jovi has an impressive real estate portfolio.
Berner – $400 million
With over 40 albums to his name, Berner is a mainstay of the rap genre, signing with Wiz Khalifa’s record label in 2012. However, his music is only part of the reason behind his $400 fortune. His links to the recreational drug industry and his lifestyle/clothing brand Cookies have earned him millions, leading to his Forbes magazine cover in 2022.
Eminem – $260 million
Most rappers in the industry will attest to the influence that Eminem has had over them and the genre. He’s an incredible powerhouse, first releasing music in 1988 and going on to become a multi-platinum-selling rapper, producer, and actor. His net worth is currently estimated at $260 million.
Pharrell Williams – $250 million
If you were around in 2014, there’s no way you aren’t familiar with Pharrell William’s iconic song Happy. Written for Despicable Me 2, the song instantly went viral – like many of Williams’ tracks. He’s an incredibly successful rapper, producer, songwriter, and fashion designer who has worked with most of the greats in his industry, netting him a fortune of $250 million.
Lars Ulrich – $350 million
Metallica is possibly the most famous heavy metal band in the entire world. With nine Grammy Awards and several successful albums and tours, it’s safe to assume the pivotal members have amassed a fortune. Lars Ulrich (the Danish drummer and cofounder) is currently the richest member of the band with a net worth of $350 million.
Dave Grohl – $320 million
In terms of current rock artists, there may be no one as iconic or as active as Dave Grohl. Not only was Grohl the drummer of Nirvana, but he is still the current vocalist for Foo Fighters and has played in at least eight other bands. He has currently turned to directing and producing in recent years, and so his net worth continues to grow.
Bono – $800 million
In 2023, the Irish singer-songwriter and philanthropist Bono was named the second richest rockstar on the planet. The lead vocalist of U2 amassed a good proportion of his $800 net worth from his musical accomplishments, but alongside this, he’s ventured into real estate with an impressive property portfolio and has invested in drone delivery companies.
Neil Sedaka – $300 million
For the younger generation, you may not be as familiar with Neil Sedaka’s name as you are with the other richest musicians of all time, but you’ll definitely be familiar with his work. Neil Sedaka has an impressive net worth of $300 million due to writing more than 500 songs such as The Lion Sleeps Tonight and Stairway to Heaven.
L.A. Reid – $300 million
While he started his career as a musician playing drums L.A. Reid went on to cofound LaFace Record (one of the most successful record labels of the 90s) and have a dazzling career as a producer. He even acted as the CEO for Island Def Jam Records, during which he kickstarted the career of artists like Justin Bieber and Rihanna. His net worth stands at $300 million.
Phil Collins – $350 million
Phil Collins has built a massive net worth of $350 million over his long career. From being the frontman of Genesis to having a highly successful solo career, Collins has brought the world timeless hits like Against All Odds and Tarzan’s You’ll Be in My Heart. Despite dealing with numerous health issues, Collins’ wealth is still climbing – his music is still widely listened to, and he’s known to be on the most well-toured artists in the game.
Shakira – $300 Million
Shakira, the hip-shaking sensation from Colombia, possesses a groundbreaking fortune of $300 million. She is adored across the world for her distinct voice and incredible dancing, which she showcased recently in her unforgettable 2023 VMAs performance. From Hips Don’t Lie to Waka Waka, her tracks guarantee to get everyone up on their feet.
Roger Waters – $310 million
Roger Waters, co-founder and the imaginative mind behind many of Pink Floyd’s conceptual masterpieces, has accumulated wealth of around $310 million. The Wall, Dark Side of the Moon, and Wish You Were Here are just a few iconic albums to which Waters heavily contributed, both musically and lyrically.
Shania Twain – $400 million
Does a net worth of $400 million impress you much? With Shania Twain’s breakthrough album Come On Over becoming the best-selling studio album of all time by a female act, she reshaped the country and pop genres. Through consistent album sales, and a smash hit Vegas residency, Twain has secured her fortune whilst remaining a beloved figure in the music industry. Impressive, hey?
Eric Clapton – $450 million
Echoing through rock history with a soul-stirring blend of blues and rock, Eric Clapton, the solo artist and Yardbird alumnus, has expertly plucked his way to a robust $450 million. His heartstrings, often as palpable in his music as his guitar strings, have crafted timeless songs that have accumulated not only numerous awards but also a pretty remarkable wealth.
Roger Taylor – $250 million
Roger Taylor, the percussive powerhouse behind Queen’s anthemic successes, has drummed his financial worth up to a grand $250 million. This rock royalty, quite literally, has basked in a legacy wherein his rhythmic skills have significantly contributed to Queen’s multimillion-dollar empire.
Britney Spears – $60 million
Remember the Britney phenomenon? There was a time Britney Spears was everywhere – from her music to the consistent tabloid coverage. She defined a generation with hits like Toxic, and now has a net worth of $60 million. From her beginnings on Disney’s Mickey Mouse Club to becoming a pop sensation, and then going through her very public personal struggles, Spears has maintained a s passionate fan base and continued financial success.
James Hetfield – $300 million
Frontman of the legendary metal band Metallica, James Hetfield, has rocked his way to a solid net worth of $300 million. Metallica has sold over 125 million records worldwide, and Hetfield’s vocals and heavy guitar have not only defined a genre but have also ensured his spot among the wealthiest musicians, bolstered by relentless touring, album sales, and merch.
Lionel Richie – $200 million
Lionel Richie, with a voice that’s simultaneously smooth and rich, has serenaded his way to an impressive net worth of $200 million. Still touring today, his timeless songs, such as All Night Long, have captured generations, and are not only consumed, but cherished. With his ongoing success, it’s no wonder he’s managed to rack up millions.
Toby Keith – $400 million
Country megastar Toby Keith boasts a net worth of $400 million. His lyrics and catchy melodies in hits like Red Solo Cup and Should’ve Been a Cowboy have cemented his place in country music history. And he’s not just a musician: his savvy business ventures, including his successful I Love This Bar & Grill restaurants and his own line of mezcal, have contributed significantly to that massive net worth.
George Strait – $300 million
‘King of Country’ George Strait, with his truckload of hits, holds a fortune of around $300 million. His career has spanned decades, and in that time, he has accumulated an impressive 60 number one hits – the most of any artist in any genre, and his concert tours consistently rank among the best-selling in the world.
Victoria Beckham – $514 million
Despite being best known now for her very successful fashion career, Victoria Beckham, ie Posh Spice, started off her career in music – as a key member of the iconic Spice Girls. Beckham has built an empire worth a staggering $514 million. From her fashion brand to the highly successful Beckham branding across a multitude of products, it’s no wonder she’s raking it in.
Cher – $360 million
Of course, Cher was always going to a feature on this list. Another artist with a very long and extremely successful career, she’s been on the scene for six decades and has built a net worth of around $360 million. Remember her iconic ‘I am a rich man’ interview? With a career that encompasses singing, acting, and producing, Cher has certainly left her mark on the entertainment industry.
Adele – $220 million
Adele is a vocal powerhouse. Bursting onto the scene in 2008, with hits like Chasing Pavements and Make You Feel My Love, she has amassed a personal wealth of $220 million. Her albums, each a snapshot of emotional eras, have resonated universally, resulting in massive commercial success and a now ongoing Vegas residency. She’s nowhere near done, and there’s no doubt her wealth is going to continue to accumulate for years to come.
Jessica Simpson – $200 million
It’s well known that Jessica Simpson is a business mogul, whose endeavours span singing, acting and, notably, her billion-dollar retail empire. Through her hard work, she has proudly built a personal net worth of $200 million. Her financial portfolio is as varied and impressive as her own professional journey.
Rod Stewart – $300 million
We can all recognise that distinctive raspy voice that has become synonymous with rock and pop classics. Rod Stewart has romanced the world to the sound of $300 million. His career, full of hits that have endured through decades, attests not only to a musical legacy but also a pretty large fortune sat in the bank.
Robbie Williams – $300 Million
Loved by millions, Robbie Williams probably feels like he rules the world with his fortune of $300 million. From his initial days with Take That to his solo career, to being a judge on X Factor, Williams has accumulated a wealth fit for pop royalty. He’s long admitted he is not the strongest vocalist, but with his sharp wit and charming stage presence he continues to captivate fans and remain massively successful.
Brian May – $210 Million
With anthems for a generation and a trademark mop of curls, Brian May not only rocked the world with Queen but also amassed a royal treasure worth $210 million. His riffs and scholarly demeanor punctuate a career that’s both brilliantly luminous and lucratively successful in the annals of rock history.
Ozzy Osbourne – $220 Million
The ‘Prince of Darkness’, Ozzy Osbourne, rocks a net worth of $220 million. With a career spanning over 50 years, Ozzy has rocked as the frontman of Black Sabbath, to becoming a solo icon, to a reality TV star. With his notorious antics, he’s continued to build his wealth and a legendary status in rock and roll history.
Mick Fleetwood – $30 million
As a backbone to one of the most iconic rock bands in history, Mick Fleetwood amassed a wealth of $30 million. He’s built his wealth through timeless tracks, emotional tours, and classic album sales. Though he encountered some financial woes in the past, Fleetwood has managed to rebuild to a very healthy bank balance.
Billy Joel – $225 Million
Billy Joel, the Piano Man himself, has composed his fortune to a loud $225 million. From romantic ballads to rock anthems, his timeless creations have consistently charmed audiences worldwide. Joel’s incredible songwriting ability and soulful performances have solidified his place among music’s elite.
Cyndi Lauper – $50 Million
Girls just want to have fun, and Cyndi Lauper certainly can with her $50 million fortune. She has brightened up the musical world with her vibrant hits Girls Just Want to Have Fun and Time After Time. Her songs have become anthems of empowerment and emotion, making her an influential powerhouse in the music industry.
Nicki Minaj – $150 Million
The queen of rap, Nicki Minaj, has built an empire currently valued at $150 million. With her unique style and provocative lyrics, she has dominated the charts and broken numerous records. Minaj’s unique blend of rap and pop, has not only catapulted her to insane wealth but has also cemented her status in hip-hop royalty.
Diana Ross – $250 Million
Diana Ross is widely known as the epitome of grace and talent, and elegantly carries a fortune of $250 million. Her legendary voice, first showcased in The Supremes and later in her unparalleled solo career, has captured the hearts of millions, and built her legendary fortune.
Enrique Iglesias – $100 Million
With a cool $100 million fortune, Latin pop sensation Enrique Iglesias definitely doesn’t need a hero. Known for his romantic ballads and energetic pop hits, Enrique has stolen hearts across the globe. His irresistible charm and infectious rhythms have crafted a super successful career.
Nana Mouskouri – $300 Million
Nana Mouskouri, singer turned policition, has a timeless and enchanting voice. Often considered one of the most influential voices of her generation, she’s amassed a massive fortune of $300 million. Her melodies and voice have not only spanned continents but also effortlessly bridged cultures.
Alice Cooper – $50 Million
The king of shock rock, Alice Cooper, with his charismatic stage persona, has thrilled audiences and accumulated a ghoulishly large fortune of $50 million. He’s been performing his thematic spectacles and classic hits for decades, steadily building a comfortable fortune.
Charlie Watts – $250 Million
As the steady heartbeat of the Rolling Stones, the late Charlie Watts drummed up a legacy and a fortune of $250 million with unerring consistency. His sticks didn’t just strike drums; they etched rhythmic history, underlining a legendary journey to the rock hall of fame.
Gloria Estefan – $500 million
The Queen of Latin Pop, Gloria Estefan, has spun her music into an incredible fortune of $500 million. Through heartfelt melodies and spicy Latin rhythms, she hasn’t just captured hearts but also built an empire shimmering with successful albums, tours, and business ventures.
Will.i.am – $70 million
Will.i.am has built an insane net worth of $70 million through his futuristic beats and judging endeavors. From the Black Eyed Peas, to his solo career, to his long standing tenure as judge on The Voice, Will.i.am has well earned his fortune. On top of this, his range of tech investments and brand endorsements have built him a very full financial portfolio.
