Introduction: The 25th Anniversary of Forbes’ Dead-Celeb Earnings
Forbes marks a milestone this year as it revisits the century-spanning conversation about which late stars continue to earn significantly after their deaths. The 2025 ranking spotlights a heavenly lineup of musicians whose posthumous incomes keep rising, driven by catalogs, licensing deals, and enduring cultural impact. At the top of the list are artists like the Notorious B.I.G., Miles Davis, and Jimmy Buffett, joined by Michael Jackson, whose posthumous revenue stories have become the stuff of industry legend.
Notorious B.I.G.: A Timeless Catalog, Timely Revenues
Despite passing decades ago, the Notorious B.I.G. remains a cash-generating powerhouse. His catalog fuels multiple streams: streaming streams, licensing for film and television, and high-profile collaborations that introduce his music to new generations. What makes Biggie’s earnings notable isn’t just the nostalgia factor but a steady flow of synchronized tunes in ads, playlists, and curated soundtracks. The lesson for heirs and rights holders is clear: a robust, well-managed catalog can outlive a living artist by decades.
Miles Davis: A Living Legacy Through Jazz Classics
Miles Davis embodies the enduring appeal of classic jazz and the modern music industry’s appetite for timeless recordings. In 2025, classic catalogs like Davis’ continue to generate revenue through new remasters, licensing for film and gaming soundtracks, and continued discovery by younger listeners via streaming platforms. The Davis catalog demonstrates how a genre-defining career can translate into a persistent financial windfall long after the musician’s final note.
Jimmy Buffett: Margaritaville’s Perennial Earnings
Jimmy Buffett’s earnings are a prime example of a brand built around a lifestyle, not just a single hit. His catalog, live shows, brand partnerships, and associated ventures—restaurants, resorts, and a loyal fanbase—combine to create a revenue engine that keeps running. Buffett’s family and business partners illustrate how a well-managed empire can continue to generate income for years, turning a musical persona into a multi-faceted enterprise with enduring appeal.
Michael Jackson: A Posthumous Revenue Juggernaut
Michael Jackson’s posthumous earnings are a case study in how an artist’s influence can compound over time. From estate management, film projects, and catalog licensing to lucrative partnerships and carefully curated releases, Jackson’s legacy continues to captivate fans and new listeners alike. The figure often cited in discussions of posthumous wealth—around $3.5 billion in one remarkable period—illustrates both the power of a legendary catalog and the complexities of rights management in a digital age.
What This Year’s Rankings Tell Us About Posthumous Earnings
Several trends emerge from the 2025 data, offering insights for heirs, managers, and the broader music industry. First, catalog longevity matters: the longer a catalog remains relevant, the more resilient the earnings. Second, brand extensions—merchandising, experiences, and licensing—amplify revenue beyond music streams. Finally, a disciplined approach to rights management, including estate planning and strategic partnerships, can maximize a deceased artist’s earning potential over generations.
Practical Takeaways for Musicians and Estates
For living artists and their estates, the 2025 rankings highlight actionable strategies:
– Build a valuable, well-documented catalog with quality remasters and clear licensing terms.
– Explore cross-media placements, from film and TV to video games and virtual experiences.
– Invest in fan engagement through authentic, ongoing storytelling that keeps an artist’s persona fresh without eroding legacy.
Conclusion: The Enduring Value of Musical Legacies
As Forbes’ 25th anniversary of this ranking shows, the earnings of deceased stars aren’t simply about nostalgia; they’re about enduring cultural impact that translates into real, sustainable revenue. The Notorious B.I.G., Miles Davis, Jimmy Buffett, and Michael Jackson illustrate how a life’s work can continue to pay dividends long after the final encore.
