MADONNA has been ranked as the wealthiest recording artist with a net worth of $800 million by WEALTH-X. At 56 years old, MADONNA has had an illustrious career in the music industry over the past three decades, selling over 300 million records worldwide and inking a series of lucrative contract deals, including a $120 million contract with LIVE NATION in 2007. The “Queen of Pop” has also ventured into other industries such as filmmaking, fashion and children’s books.
In second place is British rock and roll music legend PAUL MCCARTNEY. During his BEATLES career from 1960 to 1970, however, MCCARTNEY only made $7 million. The rest of his $660 million fortune was amassed during his later career as a solo artist. At 72 years old, he is the oldest recording artist on the list.
The youngest musician on the list is 33-year-old BEYONCE, whose personal fortune of $440 million lands her in the 10th spot. BEYONCE, married to JAY Z, would give the couple a combined net worth of $950 million, putting them right on the threshold of billionaire status.
Another hip-hop pioneer on the list is DR. DRE, whose fortune of $650 million earns him third place. The 49-year-old is the co-founder of audio products manufacturer BEATS ELECTRONICS, which was sold to APPLE in 2014 for $3 billion. WEALTH-X estimates that DR. DRE pocketed $630 million from the BEATS deal, before taxes.