12 Forbes’ Top-Earning Musicians of 1987
Let’s hop into our musical time machine and discover the top-earning solo artists of 1987.
1. Bruce Springsteen
Net Worth: Estimated $56 million
Music Hits of ’87: “Brilliant Disguise”, “Tunnel of Love”
The Boss, with his rock anthems and poignant lyrics, struck a chord with the masses. While “Born in the U.S.A.” had set him on a path to superstardom, tracks from the “Tunnel of Love” album in ’87 showed a more introspective side, resonating with many of his fans.
2. Madonna
Net Worth: Estimated $47 million
Music Hits of ’87: “La Isla Bonita”, “Who’s That Girl”
The Queen of Pop was not far behind in the earnings list. Madonna, with her ever-evolving style and penchant for controversy, ensured she was always in the limelight. “La Isla Bonita” showcased her diverse talents, blending Latin vibes with her signature pop style.
3. Whitney Houston
Net Worth: Estimated $44 million
Music Hits of ’87: “I Wanna Dance with Somebody”, “Didn’t We Almost Have It All”
The golden voice of Whitney soared high in ’87. With her incredible vocal range and soulful ballads, she captured hearts globally. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” became the anthem for many, blending the mix of pop and soul.
4. Michael Jackson
Net Worth: Estimated $43 million
Music Hits of ’87: “Bad”, “The Way You Make Me Feel”, “Man in the Mirror”
1987 saw Michael release ‘Bad’, his follow-up to the monster hit ‘Thriller’. The album was a commercial success, spawning numerous hit singles.
5. Wayne Newton
Net Worth: Estimated $24 million
By 1987, Wayne Newton, fondly dubbed as “Mr. Las Vegas,” had already established himself as a showbiz legend, holding an unrivaled Las Vegas residency. Even though his most iconic tunes came earlier, their timeless appeal combined with his magnetic stage presence ensured packed performances. His influence extended beyond music, as he made headlines that year with his purchase of the Aladdin Hotel, cementing his status as an entertainment mogul.
6. Neil Diamond
Net Worth: Estimated $24 million
Neil Diamond, the Brooklyn-born singer-songwriter, had been a musical staple since the ’60s. By the time 1987 rolled around, he had evolved from his pop and rock roots into a more contemporary sound, blending adult contemporary with his iconic voice. Neil Diamond had released the album “Headed for the Future” in 1986. The year saw Neil touring and continuing to connect with audiences both old and new.
7. Prince
Net Worth: Estimated $23 million
Music Hits of ’87: “Sign o’ the Times”, “U Got the Look”
The Purple One, with his eclectic mix of funk, rock, and R&B, continued to enthrall audiences. ’87 was a significant year, with hits like “Sign o’ the Times”.
8. Billy Joel
Net Worth: Estimated $23 million
Billy Joel’s career was in full swing by 1987. “The Bridge” showcased his versatility, blending rock with jazz, doo-wop, and even gospel influences. The hits from this album were chart-toppers, and Joel’s tours were drawing fans in droves.
9. Paul McCartney
Net Worth: Estimated $18 million
1987 was a trip down memory lane for McCartney fans. Paul released “All the Best!” in ’87, a compilation album that brought together many of his hits post-Beatles. The album was a commercial success, and Paul, as always, was a prominent figure in the industry, both as a performer and a composer.
10. Julio Iglesias
Net Worth: Estimated $13 million
Music Hits of ’87: “Un Hombre Solo”
In 1987, Julio Iglesias was the name synonymous with Latin love songs. With his distinctive voice and heart-melting lyrics, Julio’s “Un Hombre Solo” captured hearts around the world. While he was already an international sensation, 1987 reinforced his reputation as a giant in the Latin music scene and a cross-over success in non-Spanish speaking countries.
11. Phil Collins
Net Worth: $12 million
Music Hits of ’87: “Land of Confusion,” “In Too Deep”
Phil Collins, renowned for his distinctive sound and multifaceted talents, was one of the notable earners in 1987. This English musician, singer-songwriter, and actor gained immense popularity as the drummer and lead singer of the rock band Genesis, before branching out to a highly successful solo career.
12. Barbra Streisand
Net Worth: $11 million
Music Hits of ’87: “Somewhere,” “Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star is Born)”
Barbra Streisand, the incomparable icon, marked her territory in the music and film industry with her timeless elegance and unparalleled talents in 1987. With a career spanning several decades, she has amassed a legion of fans and has earned accolades for her contributions to music, film, and theater.
