Top-earning DJs

SPINNING OUT OF CONTROL: Calvin Harris didn’t even make Forbes’ list of the highest-earning DJs last year. This year, the Scottish writer/producer/artist tops the list, pulling in $46 million over the past 12 months, according to the latest tally. Harris out-earned last year’s champ, Dutch DJ Tiësto, who earned $32 million. Both played well over 100 shows and picked up nightly fees in excess of $200k, but Harris ranks #1 thanks to hits penned for the likes of Rihanna and LMFAO, as well as a hefty advance from EMI Music Publishing. “The rise of dance music has been astronomical in the last three years,” he said after getting the news. “I happened to be in the right place at the right time.” David Guetta ranks third at $30m and Swedish House Mafia is #4 with $25m, Deadmau5, who pulled in $21m. “The money you get for DJing at these places has gone to extremes,” Avicii acknowledged, sounding not at all bummed about this surprising phenomenon. The 23-year-old Swede, who finished #6 with $20m, will likely move up the list next year behind the exploding single “Wake Me Up” and upcoming Island/IDJ debut album. (8/16a)