Forbes has named Dr. Dre the highest-paid-musician of 2012, despite not releasing an album in over a decade. The super producer surpasses pop stars, rock stars, and his fellow rappers for the No. 1 position. Largely based on his Beats by Dr. Dre headphone line, the 47-year-old hip hop mogul reportedly earned an estimated $110 million during a scoring period that ran from May 2011 to May 2012.
Among the superstars on the list is Rihanna, who comes in at No. 12 with $53 million thanks to endorsements with Vita Coco and Armani Jeans, her fragrance Reb’l Fleur, and her “Loud” tour.
She is followed by Lady Gaga at No. 13 with $52 million. Diddy ties with Katy Perry for the No. 14 spot with $45 million each. Beyoncé lands two spots above her husband at No. 18 with $40 million, while Jay-Z at No. 20 earns $38 million. Kanye West also makes the cut at No. 22 with $35 million, tying Adele for the same position.
Forbes’ Highest-Paid Musicians 2012
1. Dr. Dre – $110 million
2. Roger Waters – $88 million
3. Elton John – $80 million
4. U2 – $78 million
5. Take That – $69 million
6. Bon Jovi – $60 million
7. Britney Spears – $58 million
8. Paul McCartney – $57 million (tie)
8. Taylor Swift – $57 million (tie)
10. Justin Bieber – $55 million (tie)
10. Toby Keith – $55 million
12. Rihanna – $53 million
13. Lady Gaga – $52 million
14. Foo Fighters – $47 million
15. Diddy – $45 million (tie)
15. Katy Perry – $45 million (tie)
17. Kenny Chesney – $44 million
18. Beyoncé – $40 million
19. Red Hot Chili Peppers – $39 million
20. Jay-Z – $38 million
21. Coldplay – $37 million
22. Adele – $35 million (tie)
22. Kanye West – $35 million (tie)
24. Michael Bublé – $34 million
25. Sade – $33 million
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