Madonna has topped the first 'Cash Queens of Music' list, which is compiled by Forbes.com, after earning $72 million between June 2006 and June 2007.
Madonna's personal fortune was boosted by her successful 'Confessions Tour', which generated a staggering $260 million worldwide and she also benefited financially from working with the high street fashion chain H+M, general record sales and her deal with the U.S. broadcaster NBC for the rights to air her concert from London's Wembley Arena.
Barbra Streisand finished second with $60 million and remains one of the most successful female entertainers in the world and has sold more than 145 million albums worldwide.
Celine Dion came third with $45 million and Shakira and Beyoncé rounded out the top five with $38 million and $27 million respectively.
The top 20 women on the list earned a combined fortune of $420 million and the list was compiled by examining the artist's concert grosses, merchandising revenue, album sales and additional revenue from clothing lines, fragrance deals and endorsements.
Forbes.com's Cash Queens of Music top five …
1. Madonna - $72 million
2. Barbra Streisand - $60 million
3. Celine Dion - $45 million
4. Shakira - $38 million
5. Beyoncé Knowles - $27 million
