In the world of music, top earners are often idolized by the American public, which helps contribute to their growing wealth. Take Madonna for instance, who earned $125 million from June of 2012 to June of 2013, according to Forbes. That’s not a bad cash drawer by any standards.

However, Michael Jackson has topped Madonna’s amazing numbers with an astounding $160 million. What makes this even more impressive is the fact that Jackson did this after his death. Three of the last five years have been marked by similar phenomenon, but Jackson tops the list this year.

Revenue Sources

Most of the cash flow has been generated by two Cirque du Soleil shows, which have grossed in the hundreds of millions of dollars since opening. The first one, “Immortal,” is a touring show which has grossed more than $300 million since it opened last year. The second show opened in May at the Mandalay Bay and is often sold out for its performances. Both of the shows feature the acrobatic skills of the Cirque du Soleil team, but the show called “One” comes with a huge crowd pleaser. Jackson appears in a sort of holographic illusion to perform “Man In The Mirror” as the show’s finale.

Who Got Bumped?

Liz Taylor held the number one spot in 2012 for the most money earned posthumously by an actor or musician. She earned an estimated $210 million, which was partially generated by auctions of her art, jewelry, and clothing by Christies. She also earned revenue through the sale of White Diamonds, her perfume for ladies which earned $53 million in the U.S. alone.

Michael Jackson bumped Taylor from the top of the list this year, and is followed by Elvis Presley. It is an interesting thing to see the King of Rock-n-Roll and the King of Pop in the top two seats for posthumous earnings. However, it also serves as a reminder that “you can’t take it with you when you go.”