AC/DC Rocks to Top of Highest Australian Earners List

Anyone who tried to get tickets to AC/DC's massively successful 'Black Ice' tour knows just how popular the veteran rockers remain. Now, there's confirmation that Malcolm and Angus Young, Brian Johnson, Cliff Williams and Phil Rudd are also some of the richest dudes in the entertainment biz.

In fact, AC/DC is the highest-earning Australian act during 2008-2009 according to the 'BRW Top 50 Entertainers' list. The "Back in Black" band knocked the Wiggles off the top spot. BRW is a business magazine focusing on Australian financial trends.

AC/DC had gross earnings of $105 million last year alone, thanks in large part to their massive world tour. That tour continues for a few more months and will likely keep AC/DC in the top slot for the next 'top entertainers' list.

BRW says AC/DC earned the top spot, not only because of their touring, but also because of their ability to control their own product. CD sales for AC/DC remain high despite the age of illegal downloading. AC/DC have also resisted iTunes, meaning the band keeps a higher royalty rate by selling albums through its own Web site. 'Black Ice' was also a Walmart exclusive album.

The 'Black Ice' world tour continues through March 16, 2010, ending in Osaka, Japan.