Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour” currently holds the title of the highest-grossing music tour of all time, amassing an astounding $2.07 billion. The phenomenal success of this tour
was due to showcasing over 40 songs spanning 10 distinct acts, each representing a different album era, allowing fans to experience the evolution of her artistry in a single concert.
In this article, I’ll take you through the most financially successful concert tours in history, explore what makes them so profitable, and examine how these massive tours impact artists’ careers and earnings.
Top 10 Highest Grossing Music Tours
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is the highest-grossing tour, earning over $2.07 billion across 149 shows. Its success is attributed to massive global demand, dynamic performances spanning her entire catalog in her music career, and significant cultural impact.
The following rankings showcase tours that have broken financial records and redefined the concert experience for millions of fans worldwide.
| Rank | Tour | Artist | Year | Gross |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Eras Tour | Taylor Swift | 2023-2024 | $2.07 billion |
| 2 | Music of the Spheres World Tour | Coldplay | 2022-2025 | $1.20 billion |
| 3 | Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour | Elton John | 2018-2023 | $939 million |
| 4 | Divide World Tour | Ed Sheeran | 2017–2019 | $776 million |
| 5 | The 360’ Tour | U2 | 2009-2011 | $736million |
| 6 | Mathematics Tour | Ed Sheeran | 2022-2023 | $649million |
| 7 | Bruce Springsteen & E Street Band 2025 World Tour | Bruce Springsteen & E Street Band | 2023-2025 | $630 million |
| 8 | Love on Tour | Harry Styles | 2021-2023 | $617 million |
| 9 | Summer Carnival | P!nk | 2023-2024 | $584.7 million |
| 10 | Not in This Lifetime Tour | Guns N Roses | 2016-2019 | $584.2 million |
Let’s get into the details of each tour and know how they became commercially successful.
1. The Eras Tour
This is Taylor’s best musical tour, which made it the highest-grossing tour in 2025.
| Artist | Taylor Swift |
| Number of Shows | 149 |
| Year | 2023-2024 |
| Gross | $2.07 billion |
The Eras Tour in Chicago has shattered all previous records. Swift’s three-hour-plus performance spans her entire career across ten distinct “eras,” featuring costume changes, elaborate stage setups, and a 44-song setlist.
The tour’s economic impact extends beyond ticket sales, creating what economists call the “Swift effect” – boosting local economies wherever she performs. The demand was so intense that Ticketmaster’s systems crashed during the initial sale. A concert film documenting the tour further solidified its cultural significance.
For fans wondering about what’s next, check out our update on whether Taylor Swift is having another tour in 2025.
2. Music of the Spheres Tour
Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres World Tour has emerged as the second-highest-grossing tour.
| Artist | Coldplay |
| Number of Shows | 184 |
| Year | 2022-2025 |
| Gross | $1.20 billion |
The band has performed for millions of fans worldwide, delivering visually stunning and energy-packed shows featuring their extensive catalog of hits alongside tracks from their space-themed album.
What makes this achievement particularly notable is the tour’s innovative sustainability initiatives, including kinetic dance floors generating electricity and commitments to reduce carbon emissions by 50% compared to previous tours, proving that massive global productions can balance commercial success with environmental responsibility.
For full details on their upcoming shows, check out the complete Coldplay Tour 2025 dates, venues, and ticket info.
3. Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour
This farewell tour marked the end of Elton John’s extensive touring career.
| Artist | Elton John |
| Number of Shows | 330 |
| Year | 2018-2023 |
| Gross | $939 million |
Elton John’s epic five-year farewell tour became the third-highest-grossing tour ever. When you attend a show like this, you’re not just seeing a concert but participating in music history.
John performed for over 6 million fans across five continents, delivering career-spanning three-hour performances each night. This achievement was particularly impressive as ticket prices were considerably more accessible than many contemporary tours, with John’s team focusing on playing multiple nights in venues rather than maximizing per-ticket revenue.
4. Divide World Tour
The tour marked a significant milestone in Sheeran’s career.
| Artist | Ed Sheeran |
| Number of Shows | 255 |
| Year | 2017–2019 |
| Gross | $776 million |
Ed Sheeran’s ÷ (Divide) Tour, supporting his third studio album. Sheeran captivated his fans with solo performances, utilizing loop pedals to create rich, layered sounds live on stage.
The tour was a success due to its accessibility, with Sheeran consciously keeping ticket prices affordable, ensuring a broad audience reach. This approach, combined with his widespread popularity, contributed to the tour’s record-breaking status as the highest-grossing tour at the time. The tour concluded with four homecoming shows in Ipswich.
5. The 360° Tour
This tour was a groundbreaking global concert series supporting the album No Line on the Horizon.
| Artist | U2 |
| Number of Shows | 112 |
| Year | 2009-2011 |
| Gross | $736 million |
U2’s 360° Tour held the highest-grossing tour record for nearly a decade before being surpassed. The tour’s revolutionary stage design (nicknamed “The Claw”) allowed audiences to view the performance from all angles in stadium settings.
This design created an unusually intimate feeling despite the massive venues. Performances incorporated themes of space and unity, with messages from the International Space Station and figures like Desmond Tutu. The tour set records for both gross revenue and attendance.
6. Mathematics Tour
Ed Sheeran’s Mathematics Tour (as “+ – = ÷ x”) has made him one of the most successful solo performers.
| Artist | Ed Sheeran |
| Number of Shows | 165 |
| Year | 2022-2025 |
| Gross | $649 million |
Sheeran’s tour is still ongoing and has performed for over 3 million fans across Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and North America, delivering his signature loop-pedal performances on a unique 360-degree circular stage.
His ability to command stadium-sized venues with minimal backing musicians, creating an intimate connection despite the massive scale, while implementing various sustainability measures, including tree planting initiatives—one tree for every ticket sold—to offset the environmental impact of his global touring schedule.
7. Bruce Springsteen & E Street Band World Tour
Bruce Springsteen is returning to the global stage with the legendary E Street Band.
| Artist | Bruce Springsteen & E Street Band |
| Number of Shows | 110 |
| Year | 2023-2025 |
| Gross | $630 million |
This is also an ongoing tour till July 2025, before which the Boss and his band have performed for over 4 million passionate fans, delivering marathon three-hour-plus shows that showcase both classics and deeper cuts from their extensive catalog.
His energy and commitment, even at 75 years, prove his enduring cultural relevance while maintaining the authenticity that has defined his career.
Despite controversy over dynamic ticket pricing early in the tour, the overwhelming response from fans confirms that witnessing Springsteen and the E Street Band remains an essential live music experience for rock enthusiasts.
8. Love on Tour
This tour made Styles a leading figure in contemporary pop music.
| Artist | Harry Styles |
| Number of Shows | 169 |
| Year | 2021-2023 |
| Gross | $617 million |
Harry Styles’ Love On Tour was a global sensation, captivating audiences across five continents. Spanning 22 months, the tour supported his albums Fine Line and Harry’s House, featuring 169 shows in North America, Europe, Asia, Oceania, and Latin America.
Notable highlights included 20 sold-out nights at Madison Square Garden and four at London’s Wembley Stadium. With over five million tickets sold, the tour became one of the highest-grossing in history. Styles’ vibrant performances, inclusive atmosphere, and commitment to fan engagement solidified his status.
9. Summer Carnival
P!nk’s Summer Carnival tour was a global spectacle, captivating audiences across 15 countries.
| Artist | P!nk |
| Number of Shows | 94 |
| Year | 2023-2024 |
| Gross | $584.7 million |
The tour featured high-energy performances, aerial acrobatics. A setlist blending her classic hits with tracks from her latest album, Trustfall.
Notably, the tour set attendance records in Australia, with over one million tickets sold, surpassing Taylor Swift’s numbers in the region.
P!nk’s dynamic stage presence and heartfelt interactions with fans solidified her reputation as a powerhouse performer. The success of the tour underscored her enduring appeal and ability to connect with worldwide audiences.
10. Not in This Lifetime Tour
It became one of the highest-grossing tours ever due to the bands’ electric performance.
| Artist | Guns N Roses |
| Number of Shows | 2016-2019 |
| Year | 2023 |
| Gross | $584.2 million |
The reunion of Axl Rose, Slash, and Duff McKagan after years apart sparked global excitement. The band performed 158 shows across six continents, often in sold-out stadiums.
Their powerful setlists mixed classic hits with deep cuts, appealing to longtime and new fans. Special guests like Alice in Chains added value. High demand, nostalgia, and strong reviews helped sell over 5.3 million tickets worldwide, making it a historic live music event.
Most Sold Out Concerts Of All Time
These tours managed to sell the most tickets overall, demonstrating remarkable fan loyalty and widespread appeal across diverse markets.
| Rank | Tour | Number Of Tickets Sold | Total Gross |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Music of the Spheres Tour | 10.9 million | $1.20 billion |
| 2 | The Eras Tour | 10.1 million | $2.07 billion |
| 3 | Divide Tour | 8.8 million | $776 million |
| 4 | The 360° Tour | 7.3 million | $736 million |
| 5 | Use Your Illusion Tour | 7 million | $63.8 million |
| 6 | Voodoo Lounge Tour | 6.5 million | $320 million |
| 7 | The Garths Brooks World Tour | 6.3 million | $364 million |
| 8 | Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour | 6 million | $939 million |
| 9 | Steel Wheels/Urban Jungle Tour | 6 million | $421 million |
| 10 | Rammstein Stadium Tour | 6 million | $563 million |
Here are more details regarding these tours that help us understand what made them the highest-grossing of all time.
1. Music Of The Spheres Tour
Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres Tour captivated audiences worldwide with a blend of breathtaking visuals and eco-conscious themes.
| Artist | Coldplay |
| Number of Shows | 184 |
| Year | 2022–2025 |
| Number Of tickets Sold | 10.9 million |
| Total Gross | $1.20 million |
Coldplay showcased an electrifying mix of new tracks and classic hits, engaging fans through interactive wristbands and holographic projections. Its technological innovations and message of unity elevated it beyond a typical concert experience, building Coldplay’s reputation for amazing live performances.
It partnered with One Tree Planted to plant one tree for every ticket sold during their tour. This tour broke attendance records, proving the band’s enduring global influence in the music industry.
2. Eras Tour
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour was a landmark event, celebrating her musical evolution with extravagant set designs, intricate choreography, and immersive storytelling.
| Artist | Taylor Swift |
| Number of Shows | 149 |
| Year | 2023–2024 |
| Number Of tickets Sold | 10.1 million |
| Total Gross | $2.07 million |
She performed multiple songs from her career, taking fans through visually distinct segments, each representing a different phase of her discography. The tour featured custom couture costumes, dynamic light displays, and elaborate stage transitions.
Swift’s ability to connect with fans, coupled with surprise song performances, made each concert a unique experience. The Eras Tour achieved historic success, cementing Swift’s status as one of the most influential artists in modern music.
Curious which of her tracks topped the charts? Discover Taylor Swift’s most popular songs and top hits ranked.
3. Divide World Tour
Ed Sheeran’s Divide Tour proved his immense global reach, showcasing his talent through intimate, loop-pedal-driven performances on a grand scale.
| Artist | Ed Sheeran |
| Number of Shows | 255 |
| Year | 2017–2019 |
| Number Of tickets Sold | 8.8 million |
| Total Gross | $776 million |
With minimalistic staging and no backup musicians, Sheeran relied solely on his voice, guitar, and loop station to entertain massive audiences. The tour spanned continents, playing to record-breaking crowds in stadiums and arenas.
His heartfelt storytelling and audience interaction created an engaging atmosphere, highlighting his authenticity as an artist. Hits like “Shape of You” and “Perfect” resonated deeply with fans, making this one of the most successful solo artist concerts in history.
4. The 360° Tour
The 360° Tour stadium concerts had a massive, high-tech structure for enhanced audience experience.
| Artist | U2 |
| Number of Shows | 110 |
| Year | 2009–2011 |
| Number Of tickets Sold | 7.3 million |
| Total Gross | $736 million |
The tour also introduced the largest LED screen ever used in a live concert, delivering immersive visual effects that synchronized with U2’s performances. Apart from this, the band’s setlist covered classics and deep cuts, evolving throughout the tour to create unique set experiences in different cities.
This innovative design encouraged other artists to rethink stage layouts for better fan experiences. With its record-breaking attendance and revolutionary production, the 360° Tour remains one of the most ambitious tours ever staged.
5. Use Your Illusion Tour
This tour is famous for all the wrong reasons, but it’s still the most-loved by rock music fans.
| Artist | Guns N’ Roses |
| Number of Shows | 192 |
| Year | 1991-1993 |
| Number Of tickets Sold | 7 million |
| Total Gross | $63.8 million |
The Use Your Illusion Tour was notorious for late starts, riots, and Axl Rose’s unpredictability, yet remains one of rock’s most legendary runs. The band’s raw energy was remarkable, which was a hit with their fans.
The tour’s massive production included a horn section, backup singers, and elaborate video productions that elevated the band beyond their stripped-down earlier performances. The tour’s controversies, including Rose diving into crowds to confront camera-wielding fans, only added to its mystique and cemented its place in rock history.
6. Voodoo Lounge Tour
The Rolling Stones’ tour set new standards for stadium rock performances with its grand production.
| Artist | Rolling Stones |
| Number of Shows | 129 |
| Year | 1994–1995 |
| Number Of tickets Sold | 6.5 million |
| TotalGross | $320 million |
The Voodoo Lounge Tour was the first tour after bassist Bill Wyman’s departure, marking a new era for the band. It featured elaborate stage designs, including massive inflatable structures and pyrotechnics.
The setlist blended classic hits with tracks from Voodoo Lounge, their 1994 album. The tour took place in multiple continents, making this as one of the greatest live acts. With record-breaking attendance of more than 5 million people, it became one of the highest-selling tours of its time.
7. The Garths Brooks World Tour
This tour redefined country music concerts with its high-energy performances and massive global reach.
| Artist | Garth Brooks |
| Number of Shows | 390 |
| Year | 2014–2017 |
| Number Of tickets Sold | 6.3 million |
| TotalGross | $364 million |
Brooks’ tour was successful for its extensive schedule, covering multiple cities across North America and beyond. His dynamic stage presence and ability to connect with audiences made each show a unique experience.
The tour featured a mix of his greatest hits, including “Friends in Low Places” and “The Dance.” Brooks’ return to touring after a long gap was met with overwhelming demand, showing his influence in country music and making this one of the most successful tours in the genre.
8. Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour
Elton John’s Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour was a grand farewell, celebrating his legendary career with spectacular performances.
| Artist | Elton John |
| Number of Shows | 330 |
| Year | 2018–2023 |
| Number Of tickets Sold | 6 million |
| TotalGross | $939 million |
Elton John’s farewell tour was an emotional journey through his decades-long career. Featuring elaborate stage designs, dazzling costumes, and immersive visuals, the tour was a fitting tribute to his legacy.
The setlist included classics like “Rocket Man” and “Your Song,” creating unforgettable moments for fans. The tour marked the end of an era for one of music’s most iconic figures, and it became one of the highest-grossing tours ever.
9. Steel Wheels/Urban Jungle Tour
The Rolling Stones’ Steel Wheels/Urban Jungle Tour was a landmark event, showcasing their unmatched energy and stage presence.
| Artist | The Rolling Stones |
| Number of Shows | 115 |
| Year | 1989–1990 |
| Number Of tickets Sold | 6 million |
| TotalGross | $421 million |
This tour marked the band’s return after a period of uncertainty, proving their enduring popularity. The stage featured elaborate lighting and massive video screens, enhancing the concert experience.
The setlist included hits from “Steel Wheels” alongside their classic songs. The tour’s success reaffirmed The Rolling Stones’ dominance in live music, setting new records for attendance and revenue. It remains one of the most influential rock tours in history.
10. Rammstein Stadium Tour
This tour delivered a visually stunning spectacle, combining pyrotechnics, theatrical elements, and powerful performances.
| Artist | Rammstein |
| Number of Shows | 70 |
| Year | 2019–2023 |
| Number Of tickets Sold | 6 million |
| TotalGross | $563 million |
Rammstein’s stadium tour is known for its intense live shows, featuring elaborate fire displays, mechanical props, and dramatic stage effects. The setlist included fan favorites like “Du Hast” and “Sonne,” performed with their signature moves.
The tour’s production was one of the most spectacular in rock history, drawing massive crowds across Europe and beyond. With its high-energy performances and groundbreaking visuals, the Stadium Tour solidified his reputation as one of the most exciting live acts.
Who Holds The Record For The Highest-Grossing Tour In 2025?
In 2025, Shakira’s Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour became the year’s highest-grossing tour, earning over $32.9 million in March alone. Her record-breaking seven sold-out shows in Mexico City underscored her global appeal and the tour’s massive success.
For a full list of cities, venues, and ticket info, explore the Shakira Tour 2025 details and see where she’s performing next across North America.
Top Highest-Grossing Tours of 2025
Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres World Tour became the highest-grossing rock tour ever, surpassing $1.2 billion across 184 shows. Ed Sheeran’s Divide Tour set a global benchmark with $775.6 million in revenue and 8.9 million tickets sold.
Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band’s 2023–2025 Tour amassed over $630 million, reaffirming their legendary status. G.E.M.’s I Am Gloria World Tour broke records for an Asian artist, earning $424 million and drawing over 3 million fans worldwide.
These are the music tours that are ongoing and are the highest grossers so far in 2025.
| Rank | Tour | Artist | Year | Gross |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Music of the Spheres World Tour | Coldplay | 2022-2025 | $1.20 billion |
| 2 | +–=÷× Tour | Ed Sheeran | 2022–2025 | $649.5 million |
| 3 | Bruce Springsteen E-Street Band World Tour | Bruce Springsteen E-Street Band | 2023-2025 | $630.8 million |
| 4 | I am Gloria World Tour | G.E.M | 2023-2025 | $424 million |
Upcoming Tours Expected To Break Records
Several upcoming tours, based on artist popularity, strategic pricing, and innovative tour concepts, have the potential to shatter existing financial records.
- Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s rumored joint “Dynasty Tour,” scheduled to begin in August 2025, is anticipated to surpass the billion-dollar mark.
Billie Eilish’s “Happier Than Ever: The Next Chapter” tour, slated for Fall 2025, has already seen unprecedented pre-sale demand.
BTS’s reunion tour following their military service completion has generated the most speculation about record-breaking potential.
The rumored Oasis reunion tour, potentially beginning in late 2025, has already created speculation about breaking U.K. attendance records.
Dua Lipa’s “Future Nostalgia: The Final Chapter” tour announcement for late 2025 has already shown record-breaking potential in presale numbers.
Key Factors That Contribute To The Success Of Music Tours
There are several critical factors that separate commercially successful tours from truly historic ones.
- Timing is crucial; farewell tours or reunions after long breaks often create urgency and drive demand.
- High production value, including immersive visuals and tech-driven effects, enhances audience experience.
- Strategic ticket pricing uses dynamic models to balance accessibility with premium VIP offerings.
- Artist narrative and cultural relevance help tours resonate emotionally and spark word-of-mouth buzz.
- Social media integration encourages fans to share content, fueling organic promotion and hype.
How Do Music Tours Impact The Artist’s Overall Earnings?
Touring is now the primary revenue source for most successful artists. Successful tours typically drive streaming increases of 20-40% during the tour period, providing long-term royalty benefits beyond immediate ticket sales.
Merchandise has evolved from a tour afterthought to a critical revenue component, with the most successful tours generating $25-50 per attendee in merchandise sales.
Brand partnerships and sponsorships frequently align with major tours, providing substantial additional revenue.
Want to know which artists are hitting the stage this year? Check out the full details on upcoming tours.
Conclusion: Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour” Stands Firmly As The Highest-Grossing Music Tour Of All Time!
It redefined what’s financially possible in live entertainment with its unprecedented $2.07 billion gross. Coldplay’s “Music of the Spheres” and Elton John’s “Farewell Yellow Brick Road “follow as the highest-grossing tours, each demonstrating how different approaches to production, pricing, and artist narrative can achieve extraordinary financial success.
FAQs
The Rolling Stones’ Steel Wheels Tour (1989-1990) was the first to break the $100 million barrier, grossing $140 million from 115 shows.
VIP packages typically represent 5-15% of tickets but can generate 30-40% of total revenue.
This controversial practice aims to capture value that would otherwise go to resellers, though many fans find it frustrating when prices surge unexpectedly.
Major tours secure comprehensive insurance covering cancellation, postponement, equipment damage, and liability.
Modern stadium tours employ 150-300 people, including musicians, technicians, production staff, security, and management.
