Although songwriters and singers are often the same people, Drake and Meek Mill’s feud reveals this is not always so. This does not necessarily mean that only singers can be songwriters. The names you’ll see on this list are all pop culture favorites who have made themselves famous for their art, both pen to paper and vocally, from Joni Mitchell with her iconic Reprise Records hit ‘Woodstock’ to songwriter Carole King, who has had hundreds of songs reach the Billboard Hot 100. From all those royalties, they also collect a hefty amount of money.
Check Out Who Are The Richest Songwriters In History
Mick Jagger – $360 million
Whoa, can you believe that Mick Jagger has been active for more than 50 years in the music industry now? He is best known for his lively and unique voice. One of the most iconic people in rock music history is a member of the Rolling Stones! Did you know that he went to the London School of Economics before he launched his music career? He wrote many tracks for the band, but some of them was Keith Richards’s collaborations. He’s making headlines even to this day for all kinds of antics!
Mick Jagger – $360 Million
Neil Diamond – $175 million
Greatest Hits: Song Sung Blue, Cracklin’ Rosie
Neil Diamond is a leading entertainer who has sold over one hundred albums worldwide, achieving recognition on the top 10 billboard charts with thirty-eight singles. He’s one of the bestselling artists in history. In 2011 and 1984, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and The Hall of Fame of Songwriters. Diamond is also famous for his humor. On Saturday Night Live, Will Ferrell parodied him and enjoyed the spoof he performed on the comedian’s final May 2002 broadcast alongside Ferrell.
Neil Diamond – $175 Million
Dolly Parton – $500 million
Greatest Hits: Jolene, I Will Always Love You, 9 to 5
Dolly Parton is not only a singer; she also has written over 3,000 songs. Whitney Houston wrote, “I Will Always Love You,” and many popular artists also covered that song. When asked about her songwriting, she stated that she began writing at the age of 7. Whether it’s a poem, a concept, an album, or a little tidbit, she said she tries to write something every day. Through a deep religious tradition in the Appalachian Mountains, her folk childhood influenced her. She was awarded 35 BMI Awards.
Dolly Parton – $500 Million
Madonna – $590 million
Greatest Hits: Like a Virgin, Like a Prayer, Vogue, Hung Up
Madonna is known for breaking boundaries in many areas, like her acting, songwriting, and singing. Sometimes, her pictures and lyrics bring controversy. She has been in the music industry for decades. Before turning to music and working as a guitarist for the Breakfast Club, she moved to New York City to pursue a dance career. She signed a recording agreement with Sire Records in 1982. Her songs include the award-winning “Like a Virgin,” “Ray of Light,” “Confessions on a Dance Floor,” and much more. Other artists refer to her as an influence as well.
Madonna – $590 Million
Taylor Swift – $360 million
In this day and age, Taylor Swift, born in Pennsylvania, must be one of the most popular musicians. When she kicked off her music career, she was only 14 years old. To chase her dreams, she moved to Nashville and bagged a deal with Big Machine. Did you know she was the youngest artist ever signed by Sony? She released her debut album in 2006. Since then, she has set different records in the industry. Over the years, her sound has changed. She has dabbled in pop-rock and indie rock ever since.
Taylor Swift – $360 Million
Johnny Cash – $60 million
Greatest Hits: I Walk the Line, Folsom Prison Blues
Johnny Cash is a globally known artist with more than 90 million records sold worldwide. He was introduced to the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. Known for music with hard-edges. “Hello, I’m Johnny Cash” was his opening line. Before each concert, he would make a simple introduction, shaking the popular rock-genre showboat. In Walk, the Line, distributed by 20th Century Fox, Cash’s legacy was remembered.
Johnny Cash – $60 Million
Joni Mitchell – $50 million
Greatest Hits: Woodstock, Big Yellow Taxi
Joni Mitchell’s album Blue is one of the most iconic albums of all time. She’s an accomplished poet, pianist, and guitarist. The singer embedded folk, pop, jazz, and rock into her work style creatively. She was active in the Baby Boom counterculture, with regular advocacy and demonstrations. Her “Big Yellow Taxi” songs, “Woodstock,” were among her most popular hits, all of which were released by Reprise. Also noted for her adaptability. She has changed her look and voice many times, and she uses her music to influence pop culture.
Joni Mitchell – $50 Million
Jerry Garcia – $40 million
Greatest Hits: Truckin’, Sugaree
During his 30 year career, Jerry Garcia became a prosperous rock band member. He had several other bands and other solo albums as well. He was 13th on Rolling Stone’s “100 Greatest Guitarists” list. He was the primary songwriter for the Grateful Dead, best known for his psychedelic rock style. He was renowned for his “Truckin,” improvisation, and guitar solos, which suited him well because the stress he said in an interview was alleviated.
Jerry Garcia – $40 Million
Paul Simon – $75 million
Greatest Hits: Bridge Over Troubled Water
Paul Simon wrote almost all their songs, including most of their most popular hits, including ‘Mrs. Robinson’ and ‘Sound of Silence.’ The duo broke up in 1970, and Graceland, influenced by South Africa, where he lived for a while, was published by Simon. Graceland sold 14 million copies upon its release, and it is his most successful solo work so far. He had a career on Broadway, writing musicals. With the poet Derek Walcott, he wrote The Capeman. He was also a screenwriter.
Paul Simon – $75 Million
James Taylor – $60 million
Greatest Hits: Paint It Black, Night Owl
James Taylor won 5 Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. He’s one of the best artists ever to sell a hundred million albums in the world. He had his breakthrough with the album Fire and Rain, followed by the cover of You’ve Got a Friend by Carole King. He also covered several popular songs, including How Sweet It Is, HandyMan, and Sweet Baby James. Before This World, his first U.S. number one album was not released until 2015.
James Taylor – $60 Million
Carole King – $70 million
Greatest Hits: It’s Too Late, Nightingale, Jazzman
Carole King was one of the most popular and lucrative female songwriters ever, from 1950-2000. She has written or co-written 118 Billboard Hot 100 hits. And America alone is that. As the most popular female songwriter, she wrote sixty-one hits, making her hit the UK charts. She released various albums, including Writer and Tapestry, her breakthrough being the latter. For almost four months in America, Tapestry remained on the charts and remained on the charts six years later. In 2012, she received a Hollywood Star.
Carole King – $70 Million
Stevie Wonder – $110 million
Greatest Hits: Superstition
One of the most popular artists ever is Stevland or more famous as “Stevie Wonder.” He also played harmonica, drums, keyboards, Harpejji, and many other instruments, besides singing and writing prowess. He sold over a hundred million records and won 25 Grammys and an Academy Award. He has also been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Hall of Songwriters. On the Billboard Hot 100, Wonder had several major hits. He signed with Tamia, an 11-year-old Motown label. He was and is known to be a prodigy.
Stevie Wonder – $110 Million
Billy Joel – $180 million
Greatest Hits: Piano Man, Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song)
After his first song’s success, Billy Joel was dubbed as the “Piano Man” He has spent more than four decades in the music industry. He has sold over 150 million records worldwide and remains one of American history’s best-selling musical artists. He was born in the Bronx and dropped out of secondary school to study music. In 1972, he seized Columbia Records and signed a treaty. Out of 23 nominations, he has won five Grammys.
Billy Joel – $180 Million
Burt Bacharach – $160 million
Greatest Hits: Arthur’s Theme, Close to You
One of the most influential composers of the 20th century was Burt Bacharach. He was born in Missouri and began composing in the 1980s. He has partnered with the writer Hal David to create songs recorded by more than 1,000 singers. He is referred to as a singer for his work with Dionne Warwick, his chord progression, and jazz harmony. He also collaborated with smaller orchestras, assigning unique instruments to their members. Contemporary, easy-to-hear, and pop are some of his styles. He plays the piano as well and sings.
Burt Bacharach – $160 Million
Randy Newman – $50 million
Greatest Hits: Just One Smile, I’ve Been Wrong Before
Randy Newman is widely recognized for his prolific songwriting and arrangement and his distinctive voice and film scores. He mainly worked as a film composer, earning 20 Oscars and winning twice. It’s one of the most-nominated Oscars. In 2007, he was included in the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame. He was involved in producing a lot of animated and live-action music, including Cold Turkey, Meet the Parents, Seabiscuit, and various Pixar films.
Randy Newman – $50 Million
Tom Petty – $95 million
Greatest Hits: Here Comes My Girl, Refugee, Don’t Do Me Like That
Tom Petty, a musician, was one of the best-selling artists ever. When he met Elvis Presley, ten years old, he became interested in rock and roll. The Rolling Stones, his version of punk rock, also influenced him. He formed a Mudcrutch Band, but it failed. But the formation of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers proved to be a game-changer. Petty formed the group in the 1970s, and their second album reached the Top40. Even better was their third album, with two million copies and singles sold.
Tom Petty – $95 Million
Loretta Lynn – $65 million
Greatest Hits: You Ain’t Woman Enough, Coal Miner’s Daughter
Loretta Lynn, who has become one of the most popular country singers, was born in Kentucky. She’s renowned for such hits as “You Ain’t Woman Enough Don’t Come Home A Drinkin,” “Fist City,” “One’s on the Way,” and so on. Her biographical film, The Coal Miner’s Daughter, is named after her greatest hits. She has sold over 45 million records. She had a record of two dozen, eleven numbers, and a single one. She is still touring at 87 on this day. She’s at the Grand Ole Opry as well.
Loretta Lynn – $65 Million
Lou Reed – $15 million
Greatest Hits: Think It Over, Heavenly Arms
Lou Reed was the lead singer and songwriter of The Velvet Underground, and he had a flourishing solo career that lasted for over fifty years. The Velvet Underground was not commercially successful during their time together but is now considered one of the most influential underground alt-rock bands of its time. In 1970, Reed abandoned the Velvet Underground and published 20 solo records. He did well with his second and third albums, but he has had several ups and downs. He was brought alive by his later records, New Sensations, and New York.
Lou Reed – $15 Million
Kris Kristofferson – $160 million
Greatest Hits: Me and Bobby McGee, Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down
Kris Kristofferson is an internationally successful recording artist and songwriter. He was a writer, and several of his songs became popular songs for other talented artists. He was known for the collaborations between his outlaw country and The Highwaymen, including Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, and Willie Nelson. He starred in movies such as Heaven’s Gate, Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore, Blade, and A Star is Born. With the success of A Star is Born, he won a Golden Globe. Now, in Maui, Hawaii, he lives.
Kris Kristofferson – $160 Million
Paul McCartney – $1.2 billion
Greatest Hits: Yesterday
In terms of fame, Paul McCartney is the only name worthy of comparison with John Lennon, and it makes sense that he was a co-founder of the Beatles. He had over 2,200 song-covering performers, especially for yesterday’s song. He was acknowledged twice – first as a member of The Beatles and then as a solo artist. He received 18 Grammys, and he and his fellow members of the Beatles were named MOBs in 1965. He was knighted for his contributions to music in 1997.
Paul McCartney – $1.2 Billion
Van Morrison – $90 million
Greatest Hits: Gloria, Brown Eyed Girl
Morrison began his music career at a very young age. Before becoming a member of Them, he was a member of a few bands in Northern Ireland. His song Gloria is the epitome of pop music in the ’60s. He released his first single ‘Brown-Eyed Girl’ in 1969. ‘Astral Weeks’ was the first album, but initially, sales were slow. But his second album, Moondance, was a sensation. Van Morrison has also made music tours to this day.
Van Morrison – $90 Million
Bob Dylan – $200 million
Greatest Hits: The Times, They Are A’Changin’, Blowin In The Wind
Folk singer Bob Dylan is one of the most influential pop culture artists of all time. Throughout the early 1960s, The Times They Are A’Changing ‘and’ Blowin ‘In the Wind, his eponymous album, his hit record after hit, released. Politically, many of the albums and singles he released were popular. He was among the first to use amplified instruments in rock music (in which the use of amplified instruments had previously been controversial). The artist sold over 100 million albums in 2012 and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016.
Bob Dylan – $200 Million
Brian Wilson – $75 million
Greatest Hits: Good Vibrations, I Get Around, God Only Knows, Barbara Ann
Brian Wilson co-founded the Beach Boys. Signed in 1962 to Capitol, he wrote over twenty-four of the band’s top 40 hits. He is considered one of the twentieth century’s most creative songwriters, and some say he is a genius. He founded the Beach Boys, along with his brothers and cousin. Wilson still tours occasionally and is considered an indie pop and punk godfather. Although artists gained a lot from their influence, initiating his melodies and orchestrations proved to be difficult.
Brian Wilson – $75 Million
John Fogerty – $70 million
Greatest Hits: Proud Mary, Bad Moon Rising, Fortunate Son
John Fogerty was a talented solo artist and an integral part of the Creedence Clearwater Revival, a group he formed with his brother Tom, Doug Clifford, and Stu Cook. He was the composer, the lead singer, and the main songwriter. The band broke apart in 1972, and each went on a successful solo career. He was ranked as a great guitarist and singer by Rolling Stone (respectively). Including “Proud Mary,” which Tina Turner puts back into an iconic bop song, he has penned several hits.
John Fogerty – $70 Million
Willie Nelson – $25 million
Greatest Hits: Family Bible, On the Road Again
When Shotgun Willie was released, Willie Nelson, a songwriter, singer, and actor born in Texas, had his big break. Furthermore, his Red Headed Stranger and Stardust albums made him an iconic figure of the 1970s. He has also starred in thirty films, written numerous books, and worked as a marijuana legalization activist and biofuel use activist. Also known for its release is The IRS Tapes, a double-album whose proceeds went to the IRS to pay off its unpaid tax debt.
Willie Nelson – $25 Million
Elton John – $500 million
Greatest Hits: Rocket Man, Crocodile Rock
Elton John has sold more than 300 million albums and had 58 Billboard singles in the top 40. His song,’ Candle in the Wind,’ which he wrote after his tragic death to honor Princess Diana, remains the best-selling single in the United Kingdom and the United States’ history. He won five Grammys and several other accolades, placing him in critical success behind only The Beatles and Madonna. He is also an outstanding LGBTQ activist, raising over $300 million for LGBTQ people.
Elton John – $500 Million
David Bowie – $100 million
Greatest Hits: Changes, Space Oddity, Modern Love
Over 140 million albums have been sold worldwide by David Bowie, which resulted in over ten Platinum certifications. He earned a reputation for his creative and distinctive style. Ziggy Stardust was a weightless androgynous and daring pop icon. Bowie, born in southern London, started to study art and music at a young age. In 1983, he launched his music career, releasing Space Oddity. Before his sudden death at sixty-two, he married the supermodel Iman. He’s still an artist of glam rock and iconic rock.
David Bowie – $100 Million
Glenn Frey – $200 million
Greatest Hits: Tequila Sunrise, Lyin’ Eyes, James Dean
Glenn Frey became The Eagles’ lead singer (and their guitarist as well). “He has written a number of the most popular songs, including “Tequila Sunrise,” “Lyin ‘Eyes,” “Take It Easy,” “New Kid in Town,” and more. Afterward, he went solo when the Eagles broke up in 1980. His debut was No Fun Aloud. He had many hits, reaching the top 40s, including “Blues Smuggler,” “The Heat Is On,” “Sexy Girl,” and more. At 67, he died in New York City.
Glenn Frey – $200 Million
John Prine – $6 million
Greatest Hits: Sam Stone, Illegal Smile, Dear Abby
Ever since the 1970s, John Prine has been a songwriter and musician with a successful career. At the age of 14, he learned to play guitar and attended Folk’s Old Town School in Chicago. He took a break from music after eighteen and served in West Germany as part of the Army. He moved back to Chicago, where he worked like a man until the singer Kris Kristofferson noticed him and released his first Atlantic album. He is famous for his satirical songs about life and current affairs in general.
John Prine – $6 Million
Bono – $700 million
Greatest Hits: Sunday, Bloody Sunday
In Dublin, Bono is one of the most popular musicians. He is the unofficial leader of U2 and has written most of their songs. He won 22 Grammys for that band. The songwriter spoke about her songwriting style at great length. The artist has incorporated social and political themes in his songs and is often affected by his religious school upbringing. In his earlier days, Bono’s music was defiant or rebellious, but as he matured, he began to write songs about his personal experiences and feelings with the members of U2.
Bono – $700 Million
George Harrison – $400 million
Greatest Hits: Taxman, Here Comes the Sun
George Harrison was The Beatles’ lead guitarist. His lack of fame made him infamous as the “Quiet Beatle.” He co-wrote many of their most famous songs, including “Here Comes the Sun,” “Taxman,” “Something,” and many more. George Formby, Carl Perkins, Chuck Berry, and Django Reinhardt were among his musical influences. He was also inspired by Indian culture and music, expanding pop music into the band’s work to incorporate Indian instruments and Hindu spirituality.
George Harrison – $400 Million
Sam Cooke – $650,000
Greatest Hits: Wonderful World, Chain Gang, A Change is Gonna Come
The resident, musician, and business proprietor was Sam Cooke. He produced well-received songs as well. His power in pop music and his popular voice called him “King of Soul.” When he was young, he started singing, joining The Soul Stirrers until his later solo career. This film’s production benefited from the patronage of Aretha Franklin, Al Green, Curtis Mayfield, Bobby Womack, Billy Preston, Marvin Gaye, and others. He made James Brown and Otis Redding popular. He was called the “inventor” of the soul genre by AllMusic, Bruce Eder.
Sam Cooke – $650,000
Bert Berns – $20 million
Greatest Hits: Hang on Sloopy, Twist and Shout, Here Comes the Night
In the 1960s, Bert Berns was a very prominent producer and songwriter born in the Bronx. His most notable contributions include “Twist and South,” “Hang on Sloopy,” and more. He produced popular and critically acclaimed singles, such as “Brown Eyed Girl,” “Under the Boardwalk,” and “Baby Please Don’t Go,” while living and recording in Havana before the Cuban Revolution forced him to move to America. He used to dance in mambo nightclubs. He died of heart complications at 38 years of age.
Bert Berns – $20 Million
Marvin Gaye – $5 million
Greatest Hits: How Sweet It Is, Ain’t That Peculiar, I Heard it Through the Grapevine
The 1960s Motown sound helped form Marvin Gaye’s signature style as the Prince of Soul and the Prince of Motown. He is also one of the first Motown songwriters to break away from the music industry and make his music independently. Also, he was an influence on the genre of neo-soul and quiet storm music. Grammy won for “Midnight Love.” He had his last public appearance singing the national anthem of the NBA All-Star Game in 1983.
Marvin Gaye – $5 Million
Chrissie Hynde – $12 million
Greatest Hits: Talk of the Town, Back on the Chain Gang
The Pretenders, Chrissie’s frontwoman since 1978, were developed by Chrissie herself. The hippie counterculture movement influenced her, working in a clothing store with designer Vivienne Westwood in London. She left the music for fashion. She released songs with musicians including UB40, Cher and Frank Sinatra. After making a demo tape in 1978, she gave it to Real Records’ Dave Hill. She started paying back the rent she owed in her London practice room, making it all come back and more.
Chrissie Hynde – $12 Million
Lucinda Williams – $15 million
Greatest Hits: Can’t Let Go, Get Right With God
A country singer from Louisiana, one of the most prominent folk-rock and country-rock groups, is Lucinda Williams. Since 1978, she has been in the music industry and became famous for her style when her debut album, Lucinda Williams, was released. The song ‘Passionate Kisses’ was included in this debut, which earned Williams her first Grammy in 1994. She is known for continuously working, releasing only two more albums to date.
Lucinda Williams – $15 Million
Harry Nilsson – $7 million
Greatest Hits: Without You, Coconut
One of the most popular rock artists of his age, Harry Nilsson, enjoyed commercial success without a single concert. He is a renowned artist for his style of the Great American Songbook, mixed with Caribbean sounds. As a tenor, he had a three-and-a-half-octave range. He had an enduring impact on Indie rock. He wrote songs for such bands as The Monkees. Nilsson Schmilsson is his most commercially effective album.
Harry Nilsson – $7 Million
Curtis Mayfield – $10 million
Greatest Hits: People Get Ready
Curtis Mayfield, a civil rights activist and singer of big band music, was a member of the Impressions. Born in Chicago, he started singing as part of a gospel choir. When he met Jerry Butler, a fellow artist, Mayfield, joined the Impressions. Due to the political consciousness of his songs, he helped lead the Civil Rights Movement. His album ‘People Get Ready’ was listed on Rolling Stone’s Greatest All-Time Songs as #24. He directed Super Fly as well.
Curtis Mayfield – $10 Million
Max Martin – $260 million
Greatest Hits: Baby One More Time, It’s Gonna Be Me, I Want It That Way
Max Martin is one of our more contemporary authors. Born in Sweden, Britney Spears (“…Baby One More Time”), The Backstreet Boys (“I Want It That Way”), and NSYNC (“It’s Gonna Be Me”) have composed a hit string for them. Twenty-two of his songs appeared on the Billboard Hot 100. He has produced several works with positive financial returns. He was also in a band with other artists such as Taylor Swift, Maroon 5, and The Weeknd. As a number one hitmaker, he’s up there with Paul McCartney and George Martin.
Max Martin – $260 Million
Allen Toussaint – $3 million
Greatest Hits: Working in the Coal Mine, Yes We Can Can, Java
In Gert Town, Louisiana, one of the most prominent rhythm and blues figures in New Orleans was Allen Toussaint. As a “backroom figure” for his writing and composition, he started his career in the 1950s. He has written several songs, including “Fortune Teller,” “Working in the Coal Mine,” “Java,” “Mother – in – Law,” and more. He made some big hits as well, including “Lady Marmalade” and “Right Place, Wrong Time.” He learned to play the piano as an elderly neighbor. His dad also played the trumpet and worked for the railroad.
Allen Toussaint – $3 Million
Chuck Berry – $10 million
Greatest Hits: Ida Red, You Can Never Tell, Johnny B. Goode
Chuck Berry was hailed as the “Father of Rock ‘N Roll.” He refined and re-adapted the rhythm and the blues to create rock and roll, creating a style of solo guitars and performances that became the genre’s basis. He was born in St. Louis and became involved in music at an early age. He started playing with the Johnnie Johnson Trio band, but he had a break when he met vocalist Muddy Waters. Muddy got him hooked with Chess Records, and Ida Red was his first hit, selling over a million records.
Chuck Berry – $10 Million
Pete Townshend – $105 million
Greatest Hits: Happy Jack, Pictures of Lilly
Pete Townshend is well-known to everyone. He was a co-founder of the legendary band called “The Who.” His career as a band lasted more than fifty years, and in the second half of the 20th century, the band under his leadership became one of the most prominent voices in music. He composed more than a hundred songs for the eleven albums of The Who, including songs for two rock operas, Tommy and Quadrophenia. He also wrote essays, columns, books, etc. He began a promising career as a soloist.
Pete Townshend – $105 Million
George Clinton – $1.8 million
Greatest Hits: Can’t C Me, Loopzilla, You’re Thinkin’ Right
George Clinton, a former Motown songwriter, is renowned for writing and recording various hit songs for indie Detroit soul labels. He formed The Parliaments and later renamed Parliament and Funkadelic as his own band. Clinton was renowned for his distinctive psychedelic rock and electro-funk style in the years after that. He inspired rap music, writing the song “Can’t C Me.” by Tupac. For artists including Ice Cube, Outkast, Redman, Wu-Tang Clan, and more, he also wrote “Bop Gun.”
George Clinton – $1.8 Million
Isaac Hayes – $12 million
Greatest Hits: Soul Man
The key force behind Stax Records was Isaac Hayes. He excelled as a session musician before becoming a solo artist. He was born in Tennessee, where he wrote and sang “Soul Man,” one of the most influential soul songs. He has written many successful film songs. He composed the score for Shaft, which earned him an Oscar Award for composing. He won the most prestigious Oscar as the third African American man.
Isaac Hayes – $12 Million
Joe Strummer – $4 million
Greatest Hits: Rock the Casbah
Joe Strummer is an influential punk rock figure. He is the founder of the band The Clash, which was inducted into the Rock Hall in 2003. The band’s second album was #2 on the UK charts, and they were successful with their third and fourth US albums, becoming platinum-certified. Strummer collaborated with such bands as The Mescaleros, Pogues, Latino Rockabilly, 101ers, and more. He also had a solo career, wrote television and film scores, made radio plays, and became a major performer for an activist organization, Rock Against Racism.
Joe Strummer – $4 Million
Patti Smith – $16 million
Greatest Hits: Because the Night
Patti Smith is a songwriter, poet, and singer, and her LP Horses had a huge impact on the punk rock movement of the 1970s. She was known for her work as a punk poet, uniting poetry and punk music. She also wrote and performed the song “Because of the Night” with Bruce Springsteen. She is also an accomplished writer and won the National Book Award for her memoir, Only Kids.
Patti Smith – $16 Million
Fats Domino – $8 million
Greatest Hits: Ain’t That a Shame, Jambalaya, Lady Madonna
One of the genre’s most influential musicians was the New Orleans rock-and-roll pioneer Fats Domino. He also inspired R&B. During the years between 1955 – 1960, he sold over sixty-five million records and had eleven top 10 hits. Because of his shy nature, his influence on rock is often overlooked. He has achieved chart success on 35 albums. Highly-rated platinum or gold records are several of these. He was one of the first rock and roll artists to sell a million records.
Fats Domino – $8 Million
Kurt Cobain – $50 million
Greatest Hits: Smells Like Teen Spirit, Sappy
Nirvana’s lead singer was Kurt Cobain, an incredibly influential member of the Generation’s X. He is also the lead guitarist for the group. Born in Washington, he and Aaron Burckhard and Krist Novoselic founded the band in 1987. It was part of the Grunge scene in Seattle. Mostly through his second album, which had the single “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” This marked the beginning of their success. Cobain hated the coverage of his message and how it was oversimplified by the mainstream media.
Kurt Cobain – $50 Million
Walter Becker – $20 million
Greatest Hits: Bad Sneakers, Do It Again
Steely Dan’s co-songwriter and founder was Walter Becker. For jazz/rock bands, he played guitar and bass, too. He met his co-founder, Donald Fagen, at Bard College when they were students. They decided to start Steely Dan, and then they relocated to Los Angeles. Following the breakup, Becker moved to Hawaii, became a record producer, and later became part of the band China Crisis. Steely Dan was reformed in 1993 by Fagen.
Walter Becker – $20 Million
Tom Waits – $25 million
Greatest Hits: Closing Time, Somewhere
Tom Waits, born in California, is a singer-songwriter and actor. He is recognized for his distinctive style and his lyrics containing heavy punk elements. He focused on jazz, but he also had blues and vaudeville influences. The Beat Generation and Bob Dylan inspired him. He signed an asylum agreement in San Diego and moved to Los Angeles. His first albums, which marked his first commercially successful album, included Closing Time, Saturday Night’s Heart, and Small Change.
Tom Waits – $25 Million
Dan Penn – $1 million
Greatest Hits: Cry Like a Baby, The Dark End of the Street
Dan Penn is a successful songwriter who wrote and recorded The Dark End of the Street, Cry Like a Baby, and Do Right Woman hits from the 1960s. Numerous other artists, including Spooner Oldham, collaborated with Penn. As he was camera-shy, he preferred songwriting over showmanship. The composer’s relationship with Chips Moman was successful, although the pair had a fall-out that ended the relationship, defined as “short-lived” but “intense.” One of his most successful collaborations to date is his collaboration with Aretha Franklin.
Dan Penn – $1 Million
Stevie Nicks – $75 million
This is a photo of Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks! She was the band’s lead singer and wrote many wonderful lyrics. She was born in Arizona and worked with Lindsey Buckingham, her boyfriend at the time. To this day, over 40 million copies of their second album have been sold. Nicks has sold more than 140 million albums overall, along with her solo career. She had over 40 songs, too, which made it to the Top 50 charts. She released her most recent album in 2014: 24 Karat Gold.
Stevie Nicks – $75 Million
Willie Dixon – $2 million
Most of the time, you will hear the name Willie Dixon alongside that of Muddy Watters. After the Second World War, both of them were iconic figures in Chicago’s blues scene. Anyway, he played bass and guitar and sang with a unique voice. It goes without saying that he was one of the 20th century’s greatest songwriters! “My Babe,” “Hoochie Coochie Man,” and “Spoonful” include some of his works. We’re not shocked to hear that other iconic musicians have covered his songs.
Willie Dixon – $2 Million
Morrissey – $50 million
Steven Morrissey, better known by his last name, was born to a pair of Irish immigrants. When he began to develop an interest in music, he was just a young boy. He fronted The Nosebleeds, but it was with The Smiths where he found commercial success. With Johnny Marr, the singer formed a band, although he later also went solo. “Your Arsenal,” “Viva Hate,” and “Kill Uncle” are some of his solo works. We are sure that you know just how big an influence he had on indie rock and Britpop.
Morrissey – $50 Million
Smokey Robinson – $100 million
If it had not been for frontman and founder Smokey Robinson, the Miracles band would not have seen any success. He was also the musical act’s songwriter and producer in chief. He retired and launched a solo career in 1972. He ended up leaving Motown Records in 1990 and wrote a lot of music for other musicians. Did you know that from his uncle, he got his nickname? The older one gave him “Smokey Joe” as his “cowboy name.” For the rest of his life, the name stuck!
Smokey Robinson – $100 Million
Kenny Gamble – $8.5 million
Kenny Gamble, born in Philadelphia, made a name for himself through his work on the local soul scene. He recorded himself on arcade machines as a child and developed a profound interest in music. He later founded a band that Jerry Ross managed, called Gamble & Huff. Back in 1967, the Soul Survivors covered the first one! He is best known for songs like “Expressway to Your Heart” and “I’m Gonna Make You Love Me.”
Kenny Gamble – $8.5 Million
Jimmy Webb – $10 million
Jimmy Webb was added to the Hall of Fame of Songwriters in 1986. The Oklahoma native has also made it to the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in addition to that. To his name, he has several platinum songs such as “All I Know,” “MacArthur Park,” and “Wichita Lineman.” He has worked with the likes of Art Garfunkel and also Linda Ronstadt in the past. He has talked about songwriting and aspired to make music that “crushed lonely hearts.” He published a memoir called “The Cake and the Storm” in 2017.
Jimmy Webb – $10 Million
Merle Haggard – $40 million
When it comes to country music, one of its founding fathers is considered to be Merle Haggard. This is true for the sound of Bakersfield as well. He was born during the Great Depression in California. After his dad passed away, he decided to pursue a career in country music. His songs made him great, and by writing about American patriotism, the working class, and the Vietnam War, he was able to make a name for himself. He had a lot of hits that topped the country charts. Some of them even made it to the charts on Billboard!
Merle Haggard – $40 Million
Buddy Holly – $1 million
Have you heard of Buddy Holly before? We’re sure you did. The singer and songwriter were born during the Great Depression in Texas. In the ’50s, he became a key figure in the rock’n’ roll scene in the United States. In the past, he dabbled in other genres, such as Western, R&B, and gospel. The musician, after opening for Elvis Presley, decided to pursue the industry more seriously. With Carl Bunch, Tommy Allsup, and Waylon Jennings, he joined a group. The rest was history!
Buddy Holly – $1 Million
The Bee Gees – $86 million
The Bee Gees were made up of three brothers: Robin, Barry, and Maurice Gibb. In the ’60s and’ 70s, they reached the height of their profession. Among disco fans, they were a hit. They liked changing their sound regularly. The trio was born on the Isle of Man, and they spent their youth in Manchester. The Rattlesnakes were launched but changed their name to the Bee Gees. Robert Stigwood joined them in 1967 and promoted them throughout the globe. Since then, they have sold over 220 million copies.
The Bee Gees – $86 Million
Ray Davies – $12 million
This English musician served as The Kinks’ guitarist and songwriter. Ray Davies is considered to be the Britpop godfather! In 1964, the band bagged a recording contract. Many years have been spent in the limelight. Just so you know, he was the man who wrote “You Really Got Me,” which is largely regarded as a breakthrough hit for them. Through his success, he led the band and was not scared to experiment with their sound. In the late ’90s, when the Kinks broke up, he decided instead to launch a solo career.
Ray Davies – $12 Million
Paul Westerberg – $9 million
In the ’80s, Paul Westerberg was a member of The Replacements, an alt-rock band. Did you know that, while working as a janitor, he joined them? He followed the sound of the music after hearing them perform and talked them into letting him in. The lead singer apparently left after Westerberg told him the others were going to kick him out! This doesn’t sound very ethical to us, but the band has seen much success with him. He began his solo career when the band broke up.
Paul Westerberg – $9 Million
Robert Johnson – $500,000 (estate)
This musician was born in 1911 in Mississippi. He was a pioneer of the blues, but his life has not been very well documented. Despite this, in the form of his music, his legacy lives on. He took part in several recording sessions and produced only 29 songs. He did not, unfortunately, live long enough to see them do well. Following his death, Don Law released them as singles. To great success, other musical artists borrowed his lyrics and guitar style. Bob Dylan and Keith Richards acknowledged his influence on their music, mind you!
Robert Johnson – $500,000 (estate)
Eminem – $210 million
Eminem is one of the most famous artists when it comes to the world of rap. Did you know he wrote music of his own? He launched Shady Records, signed by artists like Obie Trice, 50 Cent, and Yelawolf. Eminem, born Marshall Mathers, has sold over 230 million albums. In the past, he has also won 15 Grammys, 17 BMAs, and 8 AMAs. The rapper has nine records that have made it to the top of the Billboard charts. He is the only person to achieve such an enormous feat!
Eminem – $210 Million
John Lennon – $800 million
John Lennon was, without any doubt, an extraordinary artist. He was born and co-founded The Beatles in Liverpool. Before that, when he was in his teens, he launched another band called Quarrymen. He wrote a lot of songs for the Beatles over the course of his career. He also enjoyed a successful solo career with hit songs such as “Working Class Hero,” “War is Over,” and “Imagine.” He was in Plastic Ono with his wife, Yoko Ono. His wit, music, creativity, and social criticism made the singer known.
John Lennon – $800 Million
R.E.M. – $75 million
Did you know that R.E.M. was one of the United States’ first rock bands? Mike Mills, Michael Stipe, Peter Bruck, and Bill Berry made it up. At that time, their guitar solos and revolutionary lyrics altered the music industry! Through an independent label called Hib-Tone, their first release was. Their early popularity was courtesy of a single called “Radio Free Europe.” They released an EP called “Chronic Town” and a “Murmur” full-length album. In 1987, their first mainstream hit was “The One I Love.”
R.E.M. – $75 Million
Jeff Barry – $1 million
In 1938, in Brooklyn, Jeff Barry was born. In the pop-rock scene, he was the key player. By collaborating with Ellie Greenwich, he made a name for himself. The two went on to be one of the biggest songwriting duos of the 1960s. He wrote many popular songs, such as “Chapel of Love,” “River Deep-Mountain High,” and “Do Wah Diddy Diddy.” Let’s not forget that he also worked on tracks like “Sugar Sugar” and “Pack Leader” with Andy Kim and Shadow Morton.
Jeff Barry – $1 Million
Kanye West – $250 million
Come on; there is no way that you do not know who Kanye West The rapper has sold more than 140 million albums. There have been a lot of transformations in his career in the past. From baroque pop to gospel to soul, he is not afraid to try different styles. He is Jay-good Z’s friend. In 1996, the Chicago native began to rap. Before he went to the mic himself, he was initially a writer-producer for Roc-A-Fella Records. He tied the knot with Kim Kardashian, a TV personality, in 2014.
Kanye West – $250 Million
Prince – $300 million
Prince has blessed us with his amazing music for four glorious decades. Thanks to his flamboyant performances and wonderful songs, he became a household name. He was known for his elevated falsetto voice and various experiments in music. He has inspired the pop, soul, psychedelic rock, punk, and R&B genres over the years. When he recorded his debut song, he was only seven years old. Ten years later, with Warner Bros., he signed a contract. He also appeared in Purple Rain and performed with a band known as The Revolt, aside from his solo music career.
Prince – $300 Million
Billie Joe Armstrong – $75 million
Greatest Hits: Boulevard of Broken Dreams, American Idiot, Holiday.
The creator and lead singer of the famous pop-punk band Green Day is none-other than Billie Joe Armstrong. In 1994, he wrote the songs featured on the band’s breakthrough LP, Dookie. The LP went on to sell millions. Over the years, he’s amassed one of the most impressive song-books in the last 20 years. With American Idiot gaining The Who levels of success, Green Day has been on the map every since.
Billie Joe Armstrong $75 Million
Freddie Mercury – $50 million
Greatest Hits: Bohemian Rhapsody, We Are The Champions, Killer Queen.
Frontman and the lead vocalist of the legendary rock band Queen, Freddie Mercury, is regarded as one of the greatest singers in rock music history. During his successful career, Freddie was famous for his flamboyant stage persona and his four-octave vocal range. He wrote many of Queen’s biggest hits, including “Killer Queen,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Somebody to Love,” “We Are the Champions,” “Don’t Stop Me Now,” and “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.” After his death, Freddie was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001, the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2003, and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2004 as a member of Queen.
Freddie Mercury $50 Million
FINNEAS – $20 million
Greatest Hits: Let’s Fall In Love For The Night, Break My Heart Again, I Lost A Friend.
Finneas is a singer-songwriter whose biggest hits are actually his younger sister’s: Billie Eilish. In addition to co-writing many of her successful hits such as “Bad Guy,” he’s a singer-songwriter in his own right and has plenty of hits himself. His own hits include songs like “Let’s Fall In Love For The Night,” “Break My Heart Again,” and “I Lost A Friend.” He writes and produces songs for other famous artists and has won five Grammy Awards so far.
FINNEAS $20 million
Sean Combs AKA P. Diddy – $855 million
Greatest Hits: Can’t Nobody Hold Me Down, Bad Boy Life, I Need A Girl.
You probably know him as P. Diddy, but Sean Combs has become a giant in the music industry throughout his career. He made his breakthrough with his debut album, “No Way Out.” The album went seven times platinum, which is a rarity for debut albums. Naturally, more successful albums followed the first. Funnily enough, he’s become famous for changing his name so many times over.
Sean Combs AKA P. Diddy $855 Million
Michael Jackson – $825 million
Greatest Hits: Beat It, Billie Jean, Smooth Criminal.
Michael Jackson is one of the most significant singers of the 20th century, that’s for sure. He first made his claim to fame as part of the Jackson 5 and his brothers, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon. Following their success, he started a solo career in 1971. We all know how that turned out, of course. He released timeless hits like “Bad” and “Thriller” that are still fan-favorites. Additionally, he became the third best-selling artist of all time.
Michael Jackson $825 Million
Jay-Z – $1 billion
Greatest Hits: Crazy in Love, Déjà vu, Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem).
Even if you don’t happen to be a fan of hip-hop, you must have heard of Jay-Z at some point or another. He’s the first rapper to reach an impressive net worth of $1 billion. That didn’t happen overnight. He’s grown and was able to adapt to the hip-hop music industry’s needs for decades now. Aside from being a talented rapper, this clearly shows his business skills. He’s signed on musicians such as Rihanna, who became huge sensations. Of course, he’s a songwriter and has written dozens of songs that went on to be massive hits.
Jay Z $1 Billion
Jon Bon Jovi – $410 million
Greatest Hits: Wanted Dead or Alive, Livin’ on a Prayer, It’s My Life.
As Jon Bon Jovi’s career progressed, his music kept up with him. As of now, he’s sold over 120 million albums worldwide, showing us just how he’s earned his millions. He’s proved that rock music has a huge fan base and is one of the industry’s highest paying genres. While he only has two solo albums and his famous band, Bon Jovi, he’s released 13 studio albums. What’s most incredible is his continued relevance throughout the decades. His band saw success in the mid-80s and is one of the most popular rock bands around. In fact, Jon was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2009.
Jon Bon Jovi $410 Million
Toby Keith – $365 million
Greatest Hits: How Do You Like Me Now?!, Should’ve Been A Cowboy, Upstairs Downtown.
An American country music star, Toby Keith, has risen to fame back in the early 1990s and is now one of the world’s highest-paid country songwriters. Seeing as his current net worth is an impressive $365 million, it’s easy to see his success. He’s won several awards, including the Academy of Country Music (ACM) award and a Grammy. With hits like “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” and “How Do You Like Me Now?!”, Toby has made his way to the top of the country music industry.
Toby Keith $365 Million
Keith Richards – $340 million
Greatest Hits: Slipping Away, Thru and Thru, Take It So Hard.
A member of the Rolling Stones rock band, Keith Richards is another singer-songwriter with an impressive net worth. Currently, he stands at $340 million. It makes sense seeing as the Rolling Stones are the longest-performing rock band of all time. Aside from writing songs and being a backup vocalist, Keith plays the guitar for the band. With years and years of songwriting under his belt, we see why he’s made as much money as he has.
Keith Richards $340 Million
Tim Rice – $200 million
Greatest Hits A Whole New World; I Can’t-Wait To Be King, Can You Feel The Love Tonight.
You might not be aware of this fact, but Tim Rice is the writer of some of the biggest productions of all time. Some of these will be awfully familiar, we’re sure. One movie made by Disney named “The Lion King” had a soundtrack that mostly featured his songs. Not to mention, Tim is famous for writing songs for other famous Disney movies like “Aladdin” and “Beauty and the Beast.” Oftentimes, these songs are still used in shows today.
Tim Rice $200 Million
Herb Alpert – $250 million
Greatest Hits: Tijuana Sauerkraut, Struttin’ With Maria, A Quiet Tear (Lágrima Quieta).
Herb has spent most of his life as part of the music industry. He has his own record label, a band, and wrote dozens of the world’s most famous songs. His band, Tijuana Brass, is one of the most famous bands. While the band might not be as famous as it was in the 1960s, that doesn’t change the fact that Herb has made his wealth through the music industry, mainly songwriting.
Herb Alpert – $250 Million
Sting – $395 million
Greatest Hits: Every Breath You Take, Desert Rose, Shape of My Heart.
Sting wasn’t always a solo artist. He started his career with a band named The Police – you probably know them. He’s not famous solely for his singing abilities, either. Sting is also famous for his songwriting. He’s written many of his own songs during his solo career and his time with The Police. These days, he spends more time on his charitable work, but he’s still famous for writing his hit songs throughout his career.
Sting $395 Million
Jimmy Buffett – $400 million
Greatest Hits: Cheeseburger in Paradise, He Went to Paris, Fins.
You probably know of Jimmy Buffett as everyone’s favorite beachy summertime singer. He’s famous for his sandals and shorts. He’s definitely earned his fortune. Being the writer of many of his own sings, he’s written songs such as “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and “Margaritaville.” When he performs them, you can’t help but feel good. Of course, Jimmy’s ability to write these songs is what makes him so famous and wealthy.
Jimmy Buffett – $400 Million
Mariah Carey – $500 million
Greatest Hits: Fantasy, Vision of Love, Love Takes Time.
Famous for her angelic voice, Mariah Carey has made plenty of music that has been popular over the years. With songs like “Hero” and “One Sweet Day,” it’s no wonder she’s made such a fortune. Yes, she wrote them herself. Mariah has more number-one singles than any other solo artists in the world – most of them are songs she wrote on her own. In fact, throughout her career, Mariah has sold over 200 million records worldwide.
Mariah Carey – $500 Million
Andrew Lloyd Webber – $1.2 billion
Greatest Hits Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door; Everything’s Alright.
There’s not a shred of doubt that Andrew Lloyd Webber is the most successful songwriter of all time. He’s famous for writing the music for some of the most famous musicals like “Phantom of the Opera,” “Cats,” and “Jesus Christ Superstar.” There are many more musicals he’s famous for, but the list is very long so we couldn’t include them all. Andrew also happens to be one of only 15(!) people to have won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony — otherwise known as an EGOT winner.
Andrew Lloyd Webber – $1.2 Billion
Sia — $25 million
Greatest Hits: Chandelier, Diamonds, Titanium.
The Australian singer, songwriter, and record producer, Sia has written some very famous pop hits. She’s behind some songs that other artists have sung that you might not have known about. “Diamonds” being the most famous one. Sia has had a long career in music; however, it hasn’t always been commercially successful. All the same, she’s always put out new art consistently. She only made her big breakthrough in 2013 with her huge hit, “Chandelier.”
Sia — $25 Million
Beck — $25 million
Greatest Hits: Loser, Whiskeyclone, Hotel 1997, Where It’s At.
Beck is a songwriter who’s most famous for switching musical styles rather often – and doing it well. He’s written alternative, folk, pop, Americana, hip-hop songs, and more throughout his music career. He’s definitely one of the most creative musicians out there. His mainstream success came around in 1994 with his single, “Loser.” The song helped him reach global fame, having record labels start a bidding war over him.
Beck — $25 Million
John Mayer — $40 million
Greatest Hits: Why Georgia, Edge of Desire, Your Body is a Wonderland.
We’ve all heard this story before: a talented songwriter attends Berklee College of Music, drops out, and then becomes a multi-millionaire. John Mayer may have started in humble beginnings, but he soon started seeing commercial success. It wasn’t long before songs like “Your Body is a Wonderland” and “Why Georgia” played on the radio. John’s second album got positive reviews but didn’t do as well as his first. All the same, his net worth is said to be around $40 million.
John Mayer — $40 Million
Bill Withers — $40 million
Greatest Hits: Just the Two of Us, Ain’t No Sunshine, Lean On Me.
A legendary icon, Bill Withers, was a singer-songwriter who inspired countless others. He wrote massive hits like “Ain’t No Sunshine” and “Lean On Me.” In fact, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015 after his incredibly successful career. Throughout his life, the songwriter has won three Grammy awards. While it might be decades since they were first released, Bill’s songs are often played on the radio.
Bill Withers — $40 Million
Justin Timberlake — $230 million
Greatest Hits: Cry Me a River, Rock Your Body, Mirrors.
Justin Timberlake became famous when he was part of the singing boy band NSYNC. However, he broke off from the group and started his successful career as a solo artist. In 2002, his debut solo album, “Justified” wowed fans with hits like “Cry Me a River” and “Rock Your Body.” Since then, Justin has released five solo albums. On top of his music career, he’s been acting as well, making appearances in movies like “The Love Guru” and “The Social Network.”
Justin Timberlake — $230 Million
Andre Romelle Young – $770 million
Professionally known as Dr. Dre, Andre Romelle Young is an American rapper, record producer, audio engineer, record executive, and entrepreneur. He is the founder and CEO of Beats Electronics and Aftermath Entertainment and was previously the co-owner of Death Row Records. In 1985, Dr. Dre began his career as a member of the World Class Wreckin ‘Cru and later found fame with the gangsta rap group N.W.A. Then, in 1992, he began his solo career, but he focused on producing other artists during the 2000s, sometimes contributing vocals.
Andre Romelle Young $770 million
Ariana Grande — $50 million
Grande first caught the public’s eyes and ears, starring as Cat Valentine on the “Victorious” Nickelodeon show. She achieved teen idol status with the program, but she was more interested in getting into music. Her music career began in 2011 by providing a TV show with a soundtrack. Yours Truly, My Everything, and Sweetener, Grande’s three albums, reached number one in the U.S. Billboard 200. Credited on several tracks on Yours Truly as a songwriter, she is the first female artist to have a debut top of the charts since Kesha.
Ariana Grande $50 million
Michael Bublé — $60 million
There was misinformation as to whether or not Bublé will retire. In October 2018, he told Daily Mail that he was getting out of the music biz. Bublé’s leadership later denied these statements, however, chalking it up to “tabloid stories.” His initial breakthrough is a funny tale. In 2000, Bublé was seen performing by an aide to former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, who then gave Bublé’s album to his boss. At his daughter’s wedding, Mulroney invited Bublé to sing. That was where the young singer met David Foster, the Grammy-winning producer.
Michael Bublé $60 million
Bruno Mars — $150 million
He’s living the lifestyle of “24K magic” now, but things haven’t always been this way. Born and raised in Hawaii before becoming famous, Bruno Mars was one of six siblings. Mars eventually moved to Los Angeles for music. Peter Gene Hernandez adopted his nickname, “Bruno,” as part of his stage name. The energetic and soulful singer had many hits that peaked on Billboard charts, including “Uptown Funk!” “And ‘That’s what I like.’ Other important moments in his career were his Super Bowl XLVIII performance and his first Grammy win in 2011.
Bruno Mars $150 million
Janet Jackson — $175 million
Janet, the youngest of the Jacksons, had her start performing on the 1976 “The Jacksons” variety show. In the ’70s, she appeared on more TV shows, starting her music career in 1982 by signing a contract with A&M. Jackson signed a multi-million dollar, record-breaking contract with Virgin in 1991. She developed her pop icon image from there on out and continued acting in several films as well. After diva Mariah Carey, Billboard named her the second most successful artist of the 1990s.
Janet Jackson $175 million
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