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 Beyoncé 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' Cash Queens of Music full list is available online at
www.forbes.com.
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. Beyoncé Knowles - $27 million
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