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Archived story · published November 9, 2026. Coverage reflects reporting at the time. See today's brief

Entertainment · November 9, 2026

Paul McCartney Is a Billionaire — and the World’s Third-Richest Musician — According to Forbes

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Paul McCartney has been officially recognized as a billionaire by Forbes, with an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion. This valuation positions the 84-year-old musician as the third-richest in the world, trailing only Jay-Z ($2.8 billion) and Taylor Swift ($2 billion). McCartney's wealth is attributed to several key sources, including his extensive music catalog, his publishing firm MPL Communications, successful legal efforts to reclaim songwriting copyrights, and an art collection. A significant portion of his fortune—nearly $250 million—is derived from acquiring the publishing rights to external works, including Buddy Holly's catalog, various Broadway musical scores, and seasonal Christmas classics.

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Reported by multiple outlets

  • Forbes estimates Paul McCartney's net worth at $1.4 billion.
  • McCartney is the world's third-richest musician.
  • Jay-Z is the world's richest musician with a net worth of $2.8 billion.
  • Taylor Swift is the world's second-richest musician with a net worth of $2 billion.
  • McCartney's wealth stems from his musical catalog, tours, and art collection.
  • McCartney is 84 years old.

Reported by only some outlets

  • McCartney was previously reported as a billionaire by the Sunday Times Rich List in 2024.
  • MPL Communications, founded by McCartney in 1969, manages his catalog and those of other artists.
  • Nearly $250 million of McCartney's wealth comes from catalog acquisitions like Buddy Holly, 'Grease', and 'Annie'.
  • McCartney earns approximately $50 million annually from Beatles-related streams, vinyl, and merchandise.
  • Songwriting copyrights generate at least $10 million in revenue per year for McCartney.
  • McCartney reclaimed some ownership of his catalog through lawsuits and renegotiations around 2017.
  • Jay-Z's assets include Roc Nation, stakes in Block and Uber, and liquor businesses.
  • Taylor Swift's wealth includes $100 million in real estate and a $900 million music catalog.
  • Bruce Springsteen is ranked behind McCartney with a fortune of $1.2 billion.

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