Taylor Swift Is Highest-Earning Female Musican On ‘Forbes’ List

On Wednesday, Taylor Swift appeared at the top of Forbes’s list of the highest-paid female musicians with a grand total of $170 million in annual income.

This can most likely be attributed to her 1989 world tour, totaling $250 million gross. Her various brand endorsements, hit songs, and interactions with her fans have fueled her financial success.

“She has been building her fan base for years, and that fan base crosses multiple market segments,” entertainment attorney Lori Landew told Forbes. “It’s this ability to appeal to younger and older audiences, and those in between, that makes Taylor such a sure bet with both concert promoters and brands who want to affiliate with her and with the community she has cultivated.”

In second place for highest earnings is Adele with $80.5 million, less than half of Swift’s total. Her most recent album 25 has become the fastest-selling album of all time in the UK and the best selling album overall of 2015.

Madonna placed third with $76.5 million, her Rebel Heart tour traveling through North America, Europe, Asia and Australasia, total touring grosses reaching $1 billion this year.

Rihanna came fourth at $75 million, focusing on brand deals with companies such as Dior, Puma, and Samsung. Her hit album ANTI, released Jan. 28 of this year, also brought in a substantial amount despite Tidal’s first week free download option.

Finally, Beyoncé placed fifth with $54 million, although the results of the upcoming Formation world tour remain to be seen.