Dolly Parton – $500 million
Greatest Hits: Jolene, I Will Always Love You, 9 to 5
Besides being a popular artist, Dolly Parton has written more than 3,000 songs. Whitney Houston wrote “I Will Always Love You,” and almost every famous artist covered the song. Interviewed about her songwriting, she said she started writing when she was just seven years old. Whether it’s a poem, a concept, a song, or a little bit of tidbit, she says she’s trying to write something every day. Her folk childhood influenced her through a strong religious heritage in the Appalachian Mountains. She has been awarded 35 BMI Awards.
Dolly Parton – $500 Million
Tom Petty – $95 million
Greatest Hits: Here Comes My Girl, Refugee, Don’t Do Me Like That
Tom Petty, a guitarist, has been one of the best artists ever. When he met Elvis Presley, ten years old, he was interested in rock and roll. He was also inspired by the Rolling Stones, his version of punk rock. He founded the unsuccessful Mudcrutch Team. But the formation of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers has proven to be a game-changer. Petty formed the band in the 1970s, and their second album reached the Top 40. Their third album, with two million copies and singles sold, was even better.
Tom Petty – $95 Million
