Max Martin – $260 million
Greatest Hits: Baby One More Time, It’s Gonna Be Me, I Want It That Way
Max Martin is one of our more contemporary authors. Born in Sweden, Britney Spears (“…Baby One More Time”), The Backstreet Boys (“I Want It That Way”), and NSYNC (“It’s Gonna Be Me”) have composed a hit string for them. Twenty-two of his songs appeared on the Billboard Hot 100. He has produced several works with positive financial returns. He was also in a band with other artists such as Taylor Swift, Maroon 5, and The Weeknd. As a number one hitmaker, he’s up there with Paul McCartney and George Martin.
Allen Toussaint – $3 million
Greatest Hits: Working in the Coal Mine, Yes We Can Can, Java
In Gert Town, Louisiana, one of the most prominent rhythm and blues figures in New Orleans was Allen Toussaint. As a “backroom figure” for his writing and composition, he started his career in the 1950s. He has written several songs, including “Fortune Teller,” “Working in the Coal Mine,” “Java,” “Mother – in – Law,” and more. He made some big hits as well, including “Lady Marmalade” and “Right Place, Wrong Time.” He learned to play the piano as an elderly neighbor. His dad also played the trumpet and worked for the railroad.