The Forbes Top-Earning Musicians list for 2009 had a female flavor as Madonna, Celine Dion, and Beyoncé took the top three spots. After the girls came Bruce Springsteen and Kenny Chesney.

Despite the recession, overall numbers were up considerably from last year: This years top 10 made a combined $719 million, while 2008s top 10 only earned $500 million all together. (Its unclear if Forbes is factoring in the fact that due to ties, there are 12 artists on 2009s list.) Also, while only four single concerts on last years list topped $10 million, 10 shows surpassed that figure on this years list, led by Billy Joels goodbye to Shea Stadium.

 

Forbes Top Earning Musicians list:

1. Madonna $110 million
2. Celine Dion $100 million
3. Beyonce Knowles $87 million
4. Bruce Springsteen $70 million
5. Kenny Chesney $65 million
6. (tie) Coldplay $60 million
6. (tie) Rascal Flatts $60 million
6. (tie) AC/DC $60 million
9. The Eagles $55 million
10. Toby Keith $52 million
11. Bon Jovi $50 million
12. Dave Matthews Band $45 million