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U2 have been named the biggest earning musical act in North America last year.

According to Billboard's fourth Top 40 Money Makers chart, the Irish rockers pulled in $109 million (£71 million) from record sales, touring and royalty payments over the 12 months.

Bruce Springsteen came in second with $57.6 million, following by Madonna ($47.2 million), AC/DC ($43.6 million) and Britney Spears ($38.8 million).

The biggest earning British band was Coldplay in eight place with $27.3m, while Depeche Mode took a respectable 22nd with $16.05m.

The death of Michael Jackson helped the late King Of Pop earn $17.3 million in 2009 to come in 20th place on the list.