by Wilfred Okiche

Forbes magazine recently released their annual list of the world’s 25 highest paid musicians. Veteran rockers, U2 topped the list with total earnings of $195 million generated mostly from their world tour which began two years ago.

Due to a global decrease in album sales, most of the artistes and bands on the list made the bulk of their money from touring and brand endorsement deals over a one year period.

Bon Jovi, Sir Elton John, Lady Gaga and Michael Buble round out the top five.

Here’s how they stand:

U2 ($195million)

The Irish rockers wrapped up the most lucrative tour in music history and had played to more than 7million people worldwide and sold $700million tickets.

Bon Jovi ($125million)

Grossed $200million playing 74 shows and released a greatest hits album that charted well.

Sir Elton John ($100million)

He may be ageing, but he still knows how to fill those venues.

Lady Gaga ($90million)

The god mother of Sir Elton John’s son with his partner and mother to millions of little monsters worldwide grossed over $170million from her monster’s ball tour. The huge costs of her elaborate stage displays and eclectic wardrobe cut into her profits but her songs also enjoy heavy rotation on radio and tv. Digital downloads and product endorsements do enough to keep her in business.

Michael Buble ($70million)

Heavy radio play and strong album sales helped put Mr Buble this high on the list. He also benefitted from a lucrative concert tour.

The rest of the pack

Sir Paul McCartney ($67million)

Black Eyed Peas ($61million)

The Eagles ($60million)

Justin Bieber ($53million)

Dave Matthews Band ($51million)

Toby Keith ($50million)

Usher ($46million)

Taylor Swift ($45million)

Katy Perry ($44million)

Brad Paisley ($40million)

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers ($38million)

Jay-Z ($37million)

AC/DC ($35million)

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs ($35million)

Beyonce ($35million)

Tim Mcgraw ($35milion)

Muse ($35million)

Rascal Flatts ($34million)

Kenny Chesney ($30million)

Rihanna ($25million)