Legendary Pop Singer Madonna Attains Billionaire Status

I'm a billionaire now: Madonna during her halftime performance at the 2012 Superbowl

 

I'm not a big fan of Madonna's music.

In her career spanning about 31 years, I can count how many of her songs I'm fond of, and they are certainly not up 5.

However, this 54 year old pop legend has won my respect in many ways, and as a result, her achieving billionaire status is a feat that should be applauded, and here's why.
Through the years, Madonna who started her career in 1982, has continued to stay relevant in the changing landscape of music. Often a criticized for aligning her self awkwardly with younger generation of musicians among other things, the pop legend dwelt not on criticisms,but kept at her art. Today, she's has the title billionaire to show  for it.
According to reports, she made the bulk of her money last year from her sold out MDNA tour. She is reported to have earned a whopping $305,158,363, making it the highest-grossing tour of 2012. That's not counting the $75 million in merch sales, or $10 million in TV and DVD rights that came with the 88-stop jaunt around the globe. Before the tour, her net worth had hovered around $700 million for some time.
And theirs's even more income. Last year, the mother of four launched her debut perfume, Truth or Dare which brought in $60 million in revenue. She also has her own chain of gyms called Hard Candy, said to be boosting her income, daily.
Also, there is her Material Girl fashion chain launched in the U.S. three years ago with her eldest daughter, Lourdes Maria Ciccone Leon, 15. The line reportedly brings in $10 million a year. I could go on and on, on Madonna's income and endorsements.
And for the records, her 2012 Superbowl performance secured more viewers than Beyoncé's in February this year,and is in fact the most watched ever.
No doubt, Madonna has paid her dues, and most importantly proved her mettle as true artist and business woman, over the years. Here's hoping today's stars, will emulate some of Madonna's positive attributes, particularly her streak for staying relevant, work ethic and business acumen, in their careers.