U2 tops latest Forbes list of highest-paid musicians

17 June 2011

by Poppy Reid

U2 has topped the latest Forbes Magazine list of the highest-paid artists in the music industry. Leading with $195 million, U2 have their most recent 360 tour to thank for their win; the tour grossed over $700 million in two years.

Bon Jovi comes in second on $125 million, Elton John who will tour Australia this November placed third on $100 million and Lady Gaga came in fourth on $90 million and is just one of five females to be included in the list of 25.

Australia’s own AC/DC made the list at #18 with $35 million but holds a five-way tie with P.Diddy, Beyonce, Muse and Tim McGraw who also earned $35 million.

The list, compiled with Pollstar and RIAA among others was assembled during May 2010 to May 2011 and includes all pretax income earned before subtracting agent and manager fees.

For the full list of highest-paid musicians see below.

1. U2 ($195 million)
2. Bon Jovi ($125 million)
3. Elton John ($100 million)
4. Lady Gaga ($90 million)
5. Michael Buble ($70 million)
6. Paul McCartney ($67 million)
7. Black Eyed Peas ($61 million)
8. Eagles ($60 million)
9. Justin Bieber ($53 million)
10. Dave Matthews Band ($51 million)
11. Toby Keith ($50 million)
12. Usher ($46 million)
13. Taylor Swift $45 million)
14. Katy Perry ($44 million)
15. Brad Paisley ($40 million)
16. Tom Petty & the Heartbreaks ($38 million)
17. Jay-Z ($38 million)
18. AC/DC ($35 million)
18. Sean "Diddy" Combs ($35 million)
18. Beyonce ($35 million)
18. Tim McGraw ($35 million)
18. Muse ($35 million)
23. Rascal Flatts ($34 million)
24. Kenny Chesney ($30 million)
25. Rihanna ($29 million)