8 Forbes’ Top-Earning Musicians of 1997

We’re taking a journey back to spotlight the musicians who not only shook the charts but also shook their earnings, making it to the 1997 Forbes’ list.

1. Celine Dion

Age in 1997: 29
1997 Income: $34 million
1996/97 Total Income: $65 million

Celine Dion with her exquisite voice was the sensation of ’97. She seemed omnipresent, featuring in every award show that year, either singing or discussing her hits. With her albums flying off the shelves, and having sold over 30 million records in the two preceding years, she was more successful than the box office hits like Batman and Hercules. Her earnings just from the music industry were astronomical!

2. David Bowie

Age in 1997: 50
1997 Income: $57 million
1996/97 Total Income: $63 million

David Bowie, the glam rock icon, took a notably corporate approach in ’97 by creating Bowie Bonds, selling his future royalties upfront as an investment package. This innovative financial move, along with his music, saw his earnings soar, paving his way to Forbes’ list.

3. Sting

Age in 1997: 46
1997 Income: $40 million
1996/97 Total Income: $57 million

Sting, amid the swirling rumors of a Police reunion, inked one of the most lucrative publishing deals of the year with EMI Music Publishing. This 15-year contract, covering his prolific song catalog, was yet another highlight in his diversified musical career.

4. Garth Brooks

Age in 1997: 35
1997 Income: $26 million
1996/97 Total Income: $55 million

Even when country music seemed to be losing its touch, Garth Brooks was the beacon, shining brightly with his unique style and stage presence. His blend of hard-rockin’ country tunes and high production values, complete with onstage acrobatics and foggy special effects, made him the hottest ticket, not just in Nashville, but everywhere else.

5. Michael Jackson

Age in 1997: 39
1997 Income: $20 million
1996/97 Total Income: $55 million

Michael Jackson, although having faced several challenges, remained a significant figure in the global music scene. With most of his income coming from overseas, Michael, a pop icon of the decades, continued to influence the music industry with his innovative music and dance styles. His global tours were notable events, sustaining his commercial viability and maintaining his status as a music legend.

6. Michael Flatley

Age in 1997: 39
1997 Income: $27 million
1996/97 Total Income: $54 million

Michael Flatley, the eminent lord of the dance world, gave a dazzling twist to traditional Irish step-dancing, with his flamboyant and ornate performances. His shows were a vibrant spectacle, drawing audiences into the rhythmic world of dance. The passion and energy he displayed on stage were reflected in his substantial earnings, making him a significant figure in the entertainment industry in 1997.

7. Gloria Estefan

Age in 1997: 40
1997 Income: $30 million
1996/97 Total Income: $47 million

Gloria Estefan, with her enchanting Latin sound, had her best year in 1997. Sony’s Epic Records secured her with a brand-new eight-figure record deal, acknowledging her immense contribution to the music industry.

8. Babyface

Rank: 33
1997 Income: $22 million
1996/97 Total Income: $44 million
Age in 1997: 38

Babyface, a name synonymous with musical excellence, was the wizard behind the curtain for many hits of notable artists like Madonna, Eric Clapton, and Whitney Houston in 1997. As a producer and songwriter, he was the golden touch that shaped the sound of the decade.