Two of music’s biggest global icons, Beyoncé and Rihanna, have once again demonstrated the power of turning entertainment success into business empires.
According to Forbes’ 2026 list of America’s Richest Self-Made Women, both Beyoncé and Rihanna are tied at No. 39 with estimated net worths of $1 billion each. While they share the same financial milestone, the paths that led them there are notably different.
For Beyoncé, Forbes credits the majority of her wealth to her decades-long dominance in music and entertainment. From her early days with Destiny’s Child to becoming one of the most successful solo artists of all time, she has built a career spanning more than three decades. Her rise to billionaire status was further strengthened by the massive success of the Cowboy Carter Tour, which reportedly generated substantial revenue and reinforced her standing among the world’s wealthiest entertainers.
Meanwhile, Rihanna’s fortune reflects her transformation from global music star to business mogul. While her music career remains highly influential, a significant portion of her wealth comes from her ownership stake in Fenty Beauty, the cosmetics company developed in partnership with LVMH. Since its launch, Fenty Beauty has become one of the most successful celebrity-founded beauty brands in the world, helping Rihanna establish herself as one of entertainment’s most powerful entrepreneurs.
The list also features several other high-profile women from entertainment and business. Kim Kardashian ranks No. 25 with an estimated net worth of $1.9 billion, while Taylor Swift sits at No. 23 with approximately $2 billion.
Further up the rankings is Oprah Winfrey, whose estimated fortune of $3.4 billion places her at No. 15 on the list.
Leading the entire ranking is Diane Hendricks, whose estimated net worth of $21.7 billion secures the top spot.
The inclusion of Beyoncé and Rihanna highlights how modern artists are increasingly building wealth beyond music alone. Through touring, brand partnerships, ownership stakes, and entrepreneurial ventures, both women have transformed their cultural influence into billion-dollar business success, cementing their status as two of the most powerful figures in entertainment today.