Dolly Parton – $500 million
Greatest Hits: Jolene, I Will Always Love You, 9 to 5
Dolly Parton is not only a singer; she also has written over 3,000 songs. Whitney Houston wrote, “I Will Always Love You,” and many popular artists also covered that song. When asked about her songwriting, she stated that she began writing at the age of 7. Whether it’s a poem, a concept, an album, or a little tidbit, she said she tries to write something every day. Through a deep religious tradition in the Appalachian Mountains, her folk childhood influenced her. She was awarded 35 BMI Awards.
Tom Petty – $95 million
Greatest Hits: Here Comes My Girl, Refugee, Don’t Do Me Like That
Tom Petty, a musician, was one of the best-selling artists ever. When he met Elvis Presley, ten years old, he became interested in rock and roll. The Rolling Stones, his version of punk rock, also influenced him. He formed a Mudcrutch Band, but it failed. But the formation of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers proved to be a game-changer. Petty formed the group in the 1970s, and their second album reached the Top40. Even better was their third album, with two million copies and singles sold.