As noted when she played Atlanta in 2015 , it's Taylor Swift's world and we just live in it.

Another bit of proof: Forbes just released its annual list of the 100 highest-paid celebrities and, as a surprise to no one, Swift tops the lineup with $170 million.

Don't shed too many tears for her quickly-moved-on-from boyfriend Calvin Harris. The Scottish DJ parlayed his live skills – primarily from a high-profile residency in Las Vegas – to the tune of a $63 million year (landing him at No. 21 on the list).

Other musical acts with big enough bank accounts to make the Top 20 are Adele at No. 9 ($80.5 million); Madonna at No. 12 ($76.5 million); Rihanna at No. 13 ($75 million);  AC/DC at No. 17 ($67.5 million); and The Rolling Stones at No. 18 ($66.5 million).

Peppered throughout the list – which tallies income from June 2015 through June 2016 – are Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, Justin Bieber, Kenny Chesney and Katy Perry.

Follow the AJC Music Scene on Facebook and Twitter.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Event host Johnnie Hernado, (from left), and contestants Brian O’Connor, Trevor Rogers and Stephen Rouse at the look-alike contest for actor David Harbour on May 4, 2025 at Cabbagetown Park in Atlanta. (Daniel Varnado/For the AJC)

Credit: Daniel Varnado/For the Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Featured

The Midtown Atlanta skyline is shown in the background as an employee works in Cargill's new office, Jan. 16, 2025, in Atlanta.  (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com