Paul McCartney ranks as world's third-richest musician
The former Beatle's estimated US$1.4 billion fortune includes publishing rights, touring income and an art collection.
Paul McCartney, 84, has become a billionaire, with an estimated net worth of approximately US$1.4 billion. That places him third among the world's wealthiest musicians, behind Jay-Z at US$2.8 billion and Taylor Swift at US$2 billion.
Publishing rights account for a substantial part of his wealth. McCartney founded MPL Communications in 1969, and the company administers both his music and copyrights belonging to other artists. Its holdings include Buddy Holly catalogues, Broadway scores and seasonal songs such as 'Baby, It's Cold Outside' and 'Blue Christmas'.
McCartney also receives 25 per cent of the earnings of Apple Corps, the Beatles' holding company. The company brings in US$50 million a year through streaming, vinyl records and merchandise. The value of that income stream is estimated at more than US$150 million for each Beatle or their estate.
He released his 20th solo album, 'The Boys of Dungeon Lane', in 2026, earning his first Mercury Prize nomination. Separately, an immersive Beatles attraction is due to open in Liverpool in 2028.
