14 DAY TRIAL // She might be young but she's definitely got the world at her feet. Country singer Taylor Swift is officially the biggest thing on the market right now, with Billboard naming her the top moneymaker of 2012, based on figures for 2011.
This past year, Taylor hasn't just reaped the warmest praises from critics: she also made a fortune, the music magazine reports.
From touring and album sales, the star cashed in on $35.7 million (€27.1 million), side endorsement deals not included.
Writing her own music also helped with boosting profit.
She even topped Lady Gaga and her earnings for the previous year, Billboard notes, adding that this is irrefutable proof that Taylor is becoming one of today's hottest stars.
Second spot on the list goes to iconic rock band U2, which made a reported $32.1 million (€24.3 million) in 2011, mostly thanks to their record-breaking 360 Tour that generated massive profits for all those involved.
At number 3 is another act that broke the bank thanks to touring: Kenny Chesney grossed $29.8 million (€22.6 million) last year.
Lady Gaga, last year's top earner, is now at number 4, with money coming in from touring with the Monster Ball Tour and sales for her Born This Way album. She still did great, with a reported $25.3 million (€19.2 million) in gross.
Lil Wayne rounds up the top 5, with $23.1 million (€17.5 million), which comprises digital track sales, tour and his cut as the founder of Young Money Entertainment.
The rest of the top 10 moneymakers is comprised as follows: Sade ($16.3 million / €12.3 million), Bon Jovi ($15.8 million / €12 million), Celine Dion ($14.2 million / €10.7 million), Jason Aldean ($13.4 million / €10.1 million) and Adele ($13 million / €9.8 million).
That last entry is perhaps the most surprising, since Adele made a living in 2011 (if one can call it that) by simply selling albums: her voice issues did not allow her to tour at all, but her “21” did all the heavy lifting for her, even breaking a few records in the process.