Musicians who have mastered their craft and carved out a unique place in the music industry often amass significant wealth over their careers. This article explores the net worth of some of the richest musicians in the world, highlighting what contributed to their financial success. We also provide key details about these artists, such as their birthdates and the instruments they excel in.
Across the globe, we encounter a variety of musicians who play instruments like the guitar, saxophone, harmonica, and keyboard, among others. A select few, considered the greatest musicians of all time, have not only garnered vast fan bases but have also accumulated extraordinary wealth.
Here, we present a comprehensive list of the wealthiest musicians in the world as of 2024.
What is a musician?
A musician is someone who conducts, composes, or performs music. According to the United States Employment Service, a musician is defined as an individual who chooses music as their primary career. Musicians typically include songwriters, who write lyrics and compose music, conductors, who lead musical performances, and performers, who entertain audiences of various sizes.
The Top 10 Richest Musicians of All Time (As of 2024)
David Matthews
- Net Worth: $300 Million
- Birthdate: January 9, 1967 (age 57 as of 2024)
- Instrument: Guitar
- Birthplace: Johannesburg, South Africa
David John Matthews, an American musician, rose to fame as the lead vocalist, songwriter, and guitarist of the Dave Matthews Band. In addition to his music career, Matthews has appeared in several films. He has won two Grammy Awards, one with the Dave Matthews Band in 1997 and another in 2004 for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance.
Ringo Starr
- Net Worth: $350 Million
- Birthdate: July 7, 1940 (age 84 as of 2024)
- Instrument: Drums
- Birthplace: Liverpool, England
Sir Richard Starkey, known by his stage name Ringo Starr, is an English musician, songwriter, and actor who gained international fame as the drummer for The Beatles. Beyond his role as a drummer, Ringo also contributed vocals and songwriting to the band’s iconic albums, including “Yellow Submarine” and “With a Little Help from My Friends.”
Lars Ulrich
- Net Worth: $350 Million
- Birthdate: December 26, 1963 (age 61 as of 2024)
- Instrument: Drums
- Birthplace: Gentofte, Denmark
Lars Ulrich, a Danish drummer, co-founded the legendary heavy metal band Metallica. Like his bandmate James Hetfield, Ulrich has writing credits on nearly all of Metallica’s albums. Though initially on a path to becoming a professional tennis player, Ulrich shifted his focus to music, leading to his hugely successful career.
The Edge
- Net Worth: $400 Million
- Birthdate: August 8, 1961 (age 63 as of 2024)
- Instrument: Guitar, Keyboard
- Birthplace: Barking, Essex, England
David Howell Evans, known professionally as “The Edge,” is a British-Irish musician, singer, and songwriter. He gained fame as the lead guitarist, keyboardist, and backing vocalist for U2. His early exposure to music led him to master both the piano and guitar, and eventually, he formed U2 with fellow musicians Bono, Larry Mullen Jr., and Adam Clayton.
Gene Simmons
- Net Worth: $400 Million
- Birthdate: August 25, 1949 (age 74 as of 2024)
- Instrument: Bass Guitar
- Birthplace: Haifa, Israel
Gene Simmons, born Chaim Witz, is an Israeli-American musician known as “The Demon.” He co-founded the rock band KISS and has built a multifaceted career as a musician, entrepreneur, and television personality. Simmons also holds an impressive 182 trademarks, ranging from “Zipper” to “Topless Car Wash,” and has authored several books.
Sting
- Net Worth: $400 Million
- Birthdate: October 2, 1951 (age 72 as of 2024)
- Instrument: Bass Guitar
- Birthplace: Wallsend, England
Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner, better known as Sting, is an English musician, actor, and activist. After launching a solo career in 1985, Sting explored various music genres, including rock, jazz, and classical. He has earned 17 Grammy Awards and is recognized as one of the best-selling artists worldwide.
Keith Richards
- Net Worth: $500 Million
- Birthdate: December 18, 1943 (age 80 as of 2024)
- Instrument: Guitar
- Birthplace: Dartford, England
Keith Richards, a legendary English guitarist and co-founder of The Rolling Stones, is celebrated for his contributions to rock music. Despite his well-documented clashes with fellow band member Mick Jagger, Richards has remained a vital part of the band for over five decades. Known for his wild lifestyle, Richards once made headlines for reportedly snorting his father’s ashes.
Elton John
- Net Worth: $500 Million
- Birthdate: March 25, 1947 (age 77 as of 2024)
- Instrument: Piano
- Birthplace: Pinner, Middlesex, England
Sir Elton John, a British singer, songwriter, and pianist, is renowned for his long-standing collaboration with lyricist Bernie Taupin. John’s career took off in the 1970s, and he became one of the best-selling music artists of all time. His 1997 tribute single “Candle in the Wind,” dedicated to Princess Diana, remains one of the best-selling singles in history.
Herb Alpert
- Net Worth: $850 Million
- Birthdate: March 31, 1935 (age 89 as of 2024)
- Instrument: Trumpet, Piano
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, United States
Herb Alpert, an American trumpeter and co-founder of Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass, has earned widespread acclaim and numerous accolades, including 15 Gold albums, 14 Platinum albums, 8 Grammy Awards, and a Tony Award.
Paul McCartney
- Net Worth: $1.2 Billion
- Birthdate: June 18, 1942 (age 82 as of 2024)
- Instruments: Bass Guitar, Piano, Drums
- Birthplace: Liverpool, England
Sir James Paul McCartney, an English singer, songwriter, and musician, is best known as a member of The Beatles. After the band’s breakup in 1970, McCartney formed the successful band Wings with his first wife, Linda. His extensive catalog of hits, both with The Beatles and as a solo artist, has made him one of the most successful musicians in history.
Final Thoughts
This list showcases the extraordinary wealth and accomplishments of some of the world’s most successful musicians. While these artists have achieved immense financial success, it’s important to remember that many other talented musicians, though less wealthy, have made significant contributions to music and culture.
