Paul McCartney enters billionaire rankings as third-richest musician
Forbes estimates the former Beatle’s wealth at at least US$1.4 billion, with publishing rights and Beatles-related income among his major assets.
Forbes has added Paul McCartney to its billionaire rankings, estimating the 84-year-old musician’s fortune at at least US$1.4 billion in a report published November 9. He ranks behind Jay-Z, whose wealth it estimates at US$2.8 billion, and Taylor Swift, at US$2 billion.
Publishing rights account for a significant part of McCartney’s estimated wealth. Forbes puts the value of MPL Communications, which he founded in 1969, at at least US$250 million and estimates that its annual revenue likely reaches tens of millions of dollars. Its holdings include rights connected to Buddy Holly’s music, songs from Grease and several Christmas standards.
Beatles-related earnings are another major component. Apple Corps reportedly brings in more than US$50 million a year through merchandise, recordings and streaming. McCartney, Ringo Starr and the estates of John Lennon and George Harrison each receive 25%. Forbes estimates McCartney’s interest in that revenue at more than US$150 million.
Separately, Forbes values his share of Beatles songwriting copyrights at at least US$200 million, generating at least US$10 million a year. Touring, an art collection and properties in the United Kingdom and the Hamptons also contribute to his wealth.
The Sunday Times named McCartney Britain’s first billionaire musician in 2024, but that assessment combined his wealth with that of his wife, Nancy Shevell. McCartney declined to comment on Forbes’ estimates, which are not confirmed balances and can fluctuate.
