Beyonce Makes #2 On Forbes ‘World’s Best-Paid Music Stars’ List

For those who got claims that the music industry is lagging behind the old days or the music is quote “dead,” tell that to the stars who made the list of Forbes. Beyonce’ Knowles made it to #2 on Forbes list of best paid music stars at $80 Million dollars in a 12 month period, one notch behind the top paid music stars, The Police, who pulled in $115 million.

Justin Timberlake, made it to #4 with $44 million, one spot ahead of Madonna who pulled in $40 million.

According to Forbes, the world’s top 10 earning music stars raked in a combined $500 million between June 1, 2007 and June 1, 2008, due in most part to tours, endorsements and other deals, much like the ones in Beyonce’s career.

The rooted Destiny’s Child group member and Houston native who launched her solo career in 2003 has since released two platinum albums, built a successful entertainment empire that includes fashion, film and publishing deals; recently sold $50 million in tickets on tour; took a lead role as Etta James in the upcoming film “Cadillac Records”; and has endorsements with brands like L’Oréal, American Express and an Armani fragrance.

Justin follows her with a total of 2 million fans paying $100 million for his latest tour; an appearance in the Pepsi tv commercial during the Super Bowl; and fashion label William Rast line by Justin Timberlake. Timberlake also has co-ownership in restaurants Destino and Southern Hospitality, has signed a development deal with MTV and also heads his own music label, Tennman Records.

Check Out The Forbes Top 10 List of Best Paid Musicians

10. Gwen Stefani- $27 Million
9. Genesis- $ 31 million
8. Van Halen- $35 million
7. Rascal Flatts- $40 million
6. Celine Dion- $40 million
5. Madonna- $40 million
4. Justin Timberlake- $44 million
3. Toby Keith- $48 million
2. Beyonce Knowles- $80 million
1. The Police- $115 million