Dr. Dre Beats Out Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift on Forbes’ Highest-Paid Musicians List

The good doctor earned $110 million last year

Dr. Dre rang up earnings to the tune of $110 million last year — a staggering sum, and one that pushed him ahead of such musical superstars as Elton John, Taylor Swift and, yes, even Justin Bieber on Forbes' 25 Highest-Paid Musicians of 2012.

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According to Forbes, "The Chronic" rapper/producer pulled in $110 million last year, though the majority of that wasn't from his music — rather, Dre (born Andre Romelle Young) amassed $100 million in pretax income when handset maker HTC bought a majority stake in his Beats headphone line for $300 million.

Also read: FX Makes Deal With Dr. Dre for Drama Pilot About Music and Crime

Former Pink Floyd frontman Roger Waters came in second on the list, largely thanks to his ongoing The Wall Live tour.

Justin Bieber, surprisingly, barely made the Top 10, tying country singer Toby Keith with  $55 million.

Also read: Taylor Swift Beats Out Justin Bieber, Rihanna to Top Forbes' Highest-Paid List

Onetime Wings leader Paul McCartney also earned a place on the list, tying with 22-year-old singer Taylor Swift. Both musicians earned $57 million each. (In addition to her impressive record sales, Swift raked in some cash as one of the faces of CoverGirl.)

Read the Top 10 Highest Paid Musicians below. For the full list, visit Forbes.

 

1. Dr. Dre: $110 million
2. Roger Waters: $88 million
3. Elton John: $80 million
4. U2: $78 million
5. Take That: $69 million
6. Bon Jovi: $60 million
7. Britney Spears: $58 million
8. Paul McCartney, Taylor Swift (tie): $57 million
10: Justin Bieber, Toby Keith  (tie): $55 million

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