Patti Smith – $16 million
Greatest Hits: Because the Night
Patti Smith is a songwriter, author, and musician who rose to prominence as a member of New York City’s punk rock scene in the 1970s with her groundbreaking debut album, Horses. She is also a published author. She is regarded as the laureate of punk poetry, combining art and punk music in her performances. She co-wrote the song “Because the Night” with Bruce Springsteen, which was perhaps her most popular single to that point. She also won the National Book Award in 2010 for her novel, Just Men, which was published in 2010.
Madonna – $590 million
Greatest Hits: Like a Virgin, Like a Prayer, Vogue, Hung Up
Madonna is widely regarded as the “Queen of Pop,” and she is well-known for breaking down barriers in the fields of performance, songwriting, and music, causing uproar in both her photographs and lyrics. She’s been performing as a singer since 1979. Moving to New York City to pursue a disco career was a mistake, as she soon found herself as a guitarist with the Breakfast Club. In 1982, she signed a recording contract with the record label Sire Records. “Like a Virgin,” “Ray of Light,” “Confessions on a Dance Floor,” and other songs are featured on her album. Some musicians consider it to be an influence as well..