Adam Lambert is 2015’s top-earning American Idol

former reality tv contestant comes out on top

Published

10 years ago

January 7, 2016

Mariah Cooper

(Screenshot courtesy of YouTube)

Adam Lambert was the top-earning former American Idol contestant in 2015, according to Forbes magazine.

Beating out fellow alums Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood, Lambert raked in $10 million for 2015 with Clarkson pulling in $4 million and Underwood making $8 million.

Lambert’s lucrative year was due to the release of his latest album “Ghost Town,” a solo tour and joining Queen on tour as their frontman in place of Freddie Mercury.

The 33-year-old made headlines last year when thousands signed a petition to ban Lambert from performing at a New Year’s Eve concert in Singapore due to “acts of indecency.”

Other American Idol contestants who made the list include Chris Daughtry who made $6 million, Phillip Phillips who came in at $5 million and Scotty McCreery with $4 million.

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PHOTOS: Black Pride Opening Reception

Durand Bernarr headlines program

Published

19 hours ago

May 24, 2026

Michael Key

Durand Bernarr performs at the 2026 DC Black Pride Opening Reception on Friday, May 22. (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

The DC Black Pride Opening Reception was held at the Westin DC Downtown on Friday, May 22. Grammy Award-winning artist Durand Bernarr was the headline performer. Comedian Anthony Oakes was the host. Speakers included Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson and Center For Black Equity President Kenya Hutton, as well as speakers from health organizations and sponsors. The event featured performances from Billy the Goat, Jay Columbus, Akeem Woods, Rue Pratt, Be Steadwell and Bennu Byrd.

(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)

Photos

PHOTOS: Black Pride Pageant and Unity Ball

Back-to-back events held on first night of D.C. Black Pride

Published

2 days ago

May 23, 2026

Landon Shackelford

The 10th annual DC Black Pride Unity Ball was held at the Westin DC Downtown on Thursday, May 21. (Washington Blade photo by Landon Schackelford)

The Mr. and Miss DC Black Pride Pageant was held at the Westin DC Downtown on Thursday, May 21. Following the pageant, Black Pride events continued with the 10th annual DC Black Pride Unity Ball.

(Washington Blade photos by Landon Shackelford)