KEY POINTS:
Madonna has been named the highest-earning woman in music by Forbes.com.
The 49-year-old singer has topped the first Cash Queens of Music list, compiled by Forbes.com, after raking in $72 million (NZ$91.4m) 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 ($76m).
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 ($57m).
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 Beyonce Knowles - who collaborated on hit song Beautiful Liar last year - rounded out the top five with $38 million ($48m)and $27 million ($34m) 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 ($533m).
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.com's Cash Queens of Music top ten:
1. Madonna - $72m
2. Barbra Streisand - $60m
3. Celine Dion - $45
4. Shakira - $38m
5. Beyonce - £27m
6.Gwen Stefani - $26m
7.Christina Aguilera - $20m
8. Faith Hill - $19m
9. Dixie Chicks - $18m
10. Mariah Carey - $13m
>>The full list at Forbes.com
- BANG SHOWBIZ
