Forbes reveals highest paid musicians of 2012

Forbes released its list of highest earning musicians this week and many of the top five may come as a surprise to music fans. Leading the pack at $110 million between May of 2011 and May of 2012 was rapper Dr. Dre, though it must be said that most of the income came from business investments like Beats by Dre., rather than from recording music.

Roger Waters, founding member of Pink Floyd, came in second place with $88 million, much of which comes from his constant touring and performance of “The Wall” in its entirety. Rounding out the top 5 were Elton John, $80 million, Irish rockers U2 with $78 million and Take That at $69 million.

Britney Spears ranked as the highest earning female last year coming in at 7 with $58 million. Taylor Swift and Paul McCartney tied for 8^th place with a cool $57 million apiece.  Justin Bieber finished up the top ten with $55 million.