10 Forbes’ Top-Earning Musicians of 1990
The year 1990 was a roller coaster ride for music enthusiasts. From Madonna’s chart-topping hits to Michael Jackson’s moonwalk, the music industry witnessed a blend of style, passion, and talent.
Let’s jump straight into the time machine and take a look at those who made some serious moolah in this fantastic year.
1. Michael Jackson
Age: 32
Earnings: $100 million
Michael Jackson, dubbed the King of Pop, held the world captive with his unparalleled talent. By 1990, the artist had a bevy of chart-toppers and a reputation for releasing groundbreaking music videos.
2. Madonna
Age: 32
Earnings: $62 million
Madonna has always been the master of reinvention. This chameleon of pop constantly evolved her sound and image, remaining at the forefront of the music industry. By the turn of the ’90s, she had given the world hits like “Like a Prayer” and “Express Yourself.”
3. Paul McCartney
Age: 48
Earnings: $45 million
Sir Paul McCartney, once a part of the world’s most famous band, The Beatles, continued to enchant audiences as a solo artist. By 1990, McCartney’s music legacy was a tapestry of classic Beatles hits, Wings’ anthems, and his solo ventures.
4. Julio Iglesias
Age: 46
Earnings: $44 million
The Spanish crooner, Julio Iglesias, had by this time become a household name in many parts of the world. Known for his romantic ballads, his velvety voice transcended languages and resonated with people across different cultures and age groups.
5. Prince
Age: 32
Earnings: $35 million
Prince was more than just a musician; he was an experience. His eclectic blend of funk, rock, and pop combined with his flamboyant style made him one of the most unique artists of his generation. By 1990, tracks like “Purple Rain” and “When Doves Cry” had already cemented his legendary status.
6. Billy Joel
Age: 41
Earnings: $32 million
Billy Joel, affectionately known as the Piano Man, had a knack for crafting songs that resonated deeply with his listeners. By 1990, he had already created a rich portfolio of hits like “Uptown Girl” and “We Didn’t Start the Fire.” His storytelling, combined with his musical versatility, helped him navigate through various music styles with ease.
7. Janet Jackson
Age: 25
Earnings: $30 million
Emerging from the colossal shadow of her brother, Michael Jackson, Janet crafted her unique identity. By 1990, she had already released the influential “Rhythm Nation 1814” album, which tackled socio-political issues, a rarity for pop records.
8. Frank Sinatra
Age: 74
Earnings: $27 million
Frank Sinatra, Ol’ Blue Eyes himself, had been the voice of multiple generations. Even in 1990, his timeless charm and his silky voice were enchanting audiences worldwide. Sinatra’s extensive repertoire, including hits like “My Way” and “New York, New York,” stood as timeless monuments to his musical legacy. His impact wasn’t just in the realm of music but extended to film and television, making him one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
9. Paula Abdul
Age: 28
Earnings: $23 million
Paula Abdul’s rise to fame is the stuff of legends. Starting as a cheerleader, moving on to choreographing music videos, and then launching a music career, Paula was the epitome of multi-talented. By 1990, tracks like “Straight Up” and “Cold Hearted” had turned her into a global pop sensation.
10. George Michael
Age: 27
Earnings: $18 million
George Michael, having achieved massive success with WHAM!, embarked on a solo journey that saw even greater heights. By 1990, he had produced iconic songs like “Careless Whisper” and “Faith.” His soulful voice combined with his ability to craft pop masterpieces made him one of the standout artists of his generation.
