Katy Perry earned $135 million in 12 months through June 1
The singer also benefited from chart-topping singles “Roar” and “Dark Horse” and endorsement deals with Covergirl, Claire’s and Coty.
Swift, 25, whose rivalry with Perry has been making headlines since 2013, claims the No. 2 spot, pulling in $80 million, roughly a year after the release of “1989.”
The album has sold over 3.6 million copies across the world, spawning a string of hit singles and a massive world tour of its own.
Forbes notes that Perry will have some competition next year as Swift’s tour ramps up, pulling in more than $4 million per city and quickly surpassing Perry’s revenue level.
Perry’s tour is winding down whereas Swift’s tour kicked off in May.
Perry’s overall success is often attributed to her ability to connect with fans on a personal level and tap into what they might be feeling.
“They have hopes. They have frustrations. Perry turns those feelings into anthems,” writes Chris Matyszczyk, a marketing expert and owner of Howard Raucous, for Inc.
The singer “might surround herself with clever songwriters and marketers, but at the core is her ability to identify a personal feeling that can be shared. And from that she makes money.”
Fleetwood Mac, led by Stevie Nicks, ranks No. 3, grossing $59.5 million last year; Lady Gaga is in fourth place with $59 million; and Beyoncé drops to fifth place with $54.5 million.
Last year, Beyoncé soared to the top of Forbes’ list, earning $115 million, and Swift ranked No. 2. Perry was in fifth place with $40 million.
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