Prince is top money maker

After a decade lingering on the 'where-are-they-now' files, Prince sealed his comeback yesterday when he was named music's top earner.

His British fans may not have realised it but the eccentric star has been busy in the US.

After years of inactivity, Prince set off on a concert tour last year and banked more than £30million.

And that put him at the top of Rolling Stone magazine's Top 50 moneymakers poll.

The singer - who once changed his name to a sign - pushed Madonna into second place on a paltry £ 29million from her Re-Invention Tour, children's books and American Life CD. Madonna grossed more on tour but canny Prince's profits were fatter because he cut costs.

While it took 24 trucks to haul Madonna's tour around, Prince managed to get by with just 12.

Heavy metal stalwarts Metallica came in third, earning £23million.

The top rap act was 50 Cent who, in 19th place, grabbed £13million.