Pop superstar Taylor Swift has officially claimed the title of the world’s richest female musician, boasting an impressive net worth of $1.6 billion as of October 8, 2024. This milestone puts her ahead of fellow music sensation Rihanna, according to Forbes.
The only artist eclipsing Swift’s fortune is hip-hop mogul Jay-Z, whose net worth stands at a staggering $2.5 billion.Swift’s financial triumph is just one of the many accolades she has achieved in her illustrious career .
What distinguishes Taylor in her financial journey is that her wealth primarily comes from her music career rather than brand endorsements or lifestyle businesses. She has become the first musician to reach billionaire status mainly through her musical endeavors, including her highly profitable Eras Tour and her music catalog, which is valued at around $600 million.
Taylor Swift’s income from royalties and touring is close to $600 million, along with about $125 million in real estate holdings, according to reports. To regain control over her early work, Swift started re-recording her first six albums in 2021. She is set to continue her Eras Tour in Miami on October 18.
The Washington Post pointed out that many of Taylor Swift’s peers have built their wealth through ventures outside of music. For instance, Rihanna hasn’t released a new album since Anti in 2016, but her beauty line, launched in 2017, has significantly boosted her wealth, with Forbes estimating her net worth at around $1.4 billion.
Jay-Z, recognized as hip-hop’s first billionaire and the wealthiest musician globally with a net worth of $2.5 billion, has built much of his fortune through business ventures outside of music. His wealth comes from brands like Armand de Brignac champagne and D’Ussé cognac, along with investments in companies like Uber and Tidal .