12 Forbes’ Top-Earning Musicians of 1991
The 1991. While some of us were trying to master the moonwalk or, you know, figure out how to program a VCR, these musicians were making bank.
Let’s deep dive into the world of those who not only topped the charts but also the money list in ’91.
1. Madonna
Age: 33
Earnings: $63 million
Hits of ’91: “Justify My Love”, “Rescue Me”
Madonna, ever the queen of controversy and reinvention, kept the world intrigued with her provocative style and versatile music. Always one step ahead of the trends, led her to be an undying symbol of pop culture.
2. Michael Jackson
Age: 33
Earnings: $60 million
Hits of ’91: “Black or White”, “Dangerous”
Michael Jackson continued his reign as the King of Pop in 1991. With his unparalleled dance moves and a sound that blended genres, Michael created timeless music that broke barriers and resonated with fans globally.
3. Paul McCartney
Age: 49
Earnings: $49 million
Hits of ’91: “Save The Child”, “All My Trials”
Sir Paul McCartney, one of the legendary Beatles, remained a stalwart in the music industry with his enchanting tunes and profound lyrics.
4. Julio Iglesias
Age: 47
Earnings: $45 million
Hits of ’91: “Crazy”
Julio Iglesias, the man with the golden voice, continued to swoon listeners with his romantic melodies.
5. Janet Jackson
Age: 26
Earnings: $43 million
Hits of ’91: “Love Will Never Do (Without You)”, “The Best Things in Life Are Free”
Janet Jackson, with her innovative sound and socially conscious lyrics, remained a pivotal figure in pop and R&B. Her daring exploration of societal and sexual themes has marked her growth as an artist and has earned her acclaim and a devoted fan base.
6. MC Hammer
Age: 28
Earnings: $33 million
Hits of ’91: “2 Legit 2 Quit”, “Addams Groove”
MC Hammer brought rap into the mainstream with his catchy tunes and energetic dance moves. His distinctive style and infectious beats made him a cultural icon during the early ’90s.
7. Billy Joel
Age: 42
Earnings: $31 million
Hits of ’91: “Storm Front”, “We Didn’t Start the Fire”
Billy Joel, with his versatile music style and poignant lyrics, continued to be a significant figure in the music scene. His unique blend of pop and rock, coupled with his storytelling ability, has made him one of the most beloved musicians of his time.
8. Frank Sinatra
Age: 75
Earnings: $27 million
Frank Sinatra’s classic tunes and smooth voice continued to captivate audiences worldwide. His rich repertoire and charming persona have made him a timeless icon in the music industry.
9. Prince
Age: 33
Earnings: $25 million
Hits of ’91: “Cream”, “Diamonds and Pearls”
Prince, the musical genius, maintained his reputation as one of the most innovative and diverse musicians. His genre-defying music and flamboyant style made him a symbol of artistic freedom and individuality.
10. Paula Abdul
Age: 29
Earnings: $24 million
Hits of ’91: “Rush, Rush”, “The Promise of a New Day”
Paula Abdul dazzled the pop scene with her catchy tunes and dynamic choreography. Her upbeat music and vibrant personality made her a favorite among pop music enthusiasts.
11. Xuxa
Age: 27
Earnings: $19 million
Xuxa, the sparkling Brazilian icon, with her infectious energy and vibrant music, became the darling of millions of children around the world. She had an unparalleled ability to create music that resonated with the young, making her a household name in children’s entertainment. Xuxa created a magical world for children, blending education with entertainment. Her music was not only a joyful part of many childhoods but also an introduction to the vibrant rhythms of Brazilian music for many around the world.
12. Vanilla Ice
Age: 23
Earnings: $18 million
Hits of ’91: “Ice Ice Baby”, “Play That Funky Music”
Vanilla Ice burst into the music scene with his pop-rap tunes and distinct style. His crossover appeal brought rap music to a wider audience, and his catchy beats became synonymous with the early ’90s sound.
