Madonna:The highest-earning woman in music.

Madonna is the highest-earning woman in music.

Madonna
The 49-year-old singer has topped the first Cash Queens of Music list, compiled by Forbes.com, after raking in $72 million between June 2006 and June 2007.

The "Hung Up" singer’s personal fortune was boosted by her successful "Confessions Tour," which generated a staggering $260 million worldwide.

Madonna also benefited financially from working with high street fashion chain H+M, general record sales and her deal with US broadcaster NBC for the rights to air her concert from London’s Wembley Arena.

Barbra Streisand, 65 - who was the oldest performer on the list - finished second with $60 million.

The "Woman In Love" star remains one of the most successful female entertainers in the world, having sold more than 145 million albums worldwide.

Celine Dion, 39, came third with $45 million.

The "My Heart Will Go On" singer’s fortune was boosted by her five-year Las Vegas residency, which ended last December.

Her "A New Day" show grossed more than $400 million since it opened at Caesars Palace in March 2003.

Shakira and Beyonce Knowles - who collaborated on hit song "Beautiful Liar" last year - rounded out the top five with $38 million and $27 million respectively.

Gwen Stefani, Christina Aguilera and Mariah Carey all feature in the top 10. The top 20 women on the list earned a combined fortune of $420 million.

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.

Only "active" artists - those who released an album or film or toured during the specified period - were considered.

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. Beyonce Knowles - $27 million

Technorati Tags: Madonna is the highest-earning woman in music.