Johnny Cash – $60 million
Greatest Hits: I Walk the Line, Folsom Prison Blues
Johnny Cash, selling more than ninety million records worldwide, is one of the most popular artists. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame of Country Music, as well as the Hall of Fame and Gospel Music Hall of Fame of Rock & Roll. Popular for his songs of rough edges. “Hello, I’m Johnny Cash” was the opening line for him. He will make a quick presentation before each gig, shirking the showboat common in the rock genre (but less so in country music). In Walk, the Line, spread by 20th Century Fox, Cash’s heritage was retrieved.
Johnny Cash
Joni Mitchell – $50 million
Greatest Hits: Woodstock, Big Yellow Taxi
The Blue album by Joni Mitchell is one of the best. She is a musician, artist, and pianist. In her songs, she combined elements of folk, pop, jazz, and rock and started performing in the streets and small bars. Including frequent activism and protests, she was prominently involved in the Baby Boom counterculture. Among her greatest successes were her “Big Yellow Taxi” tracks, “Woodstock,” and Both Sides, both published by Reprise Records now. Noted for its adaptability as well. At times, she altered her look and sound, becoming music and technological force.
Joni Mitchell
