Highest Grossing Las Vegas Residencies of All Time

When people talk about Las Vegas, they usually have this sparkle in their eye, and their voice takes on an awed tone. It’s as if they are experiencing something utterly magical that, try as they might, they couldn’t for the life of them describe. I suppose you could call it the Vegas allure – what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas, and only the insiders know what it’s really like. In short, in Las Vegas, you have to see and experience it yourself in order to truly get the real, vibrant picture.

Take entertainment, for example. Las Vegas isn’t just about the casinos, the suites, and the cuisine – the entertainment options in Sin City are nothing short of awe-inspiring, and millions of people flock to Vegas for the famous residencies alone. What was once started by a Las Vegas legend, the one and only Elvis Presley, has now been transformed into a spectacular extravaganza you wouldn’t find anywhere else, even if you tried. But what makes these residencies a feast for all the senses? More importantly, what are the highest grossing residencies in Vegas through the years? You might well be surprised. We’ve dug a little deeper and found some fascinating tidbits. Here’s the introduction to the Vegas Top Ten: The Highest-Grossing Residencies Through the Years.

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A bit of background…

Las Vegas, often referred to as the Entertainment Capital of the World, has long been a hotspot for some of the biggest names in the music industry. Over the years, the city has hosted a myriad of artists in highly lucrative residencies that have not only shaped the careers of these performers - but also paved the cultural landscape of Vegas itself. These residencies have, in fact, become a staple in the city's entertainment offerings, drawing millions of fans from around the world. Here, we take a look at the top ten highest-grossing residencies in Las Vegas history. Get ready for a spectacular night!

1. Celine Dion: A New Day…

When Celine Dion first began her residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in 2003, she set a new standard for Las Vegas residencies. The aptly-named “A New Day…” was more than just a concert - it was a never-before-seen theatrical experience produced by Franco Dragone (who is known for his work with Cirque du Soleil). Over its five-year run, the residency grossed more than $385 million, making it the highest-grossing Las Vegas residency of all time – even until now. With over 700 performances, Dion attracted nearly 3 million fans, cementing her status as the queen of the Vegas Strip. And rumor has it that she’s due for a comeback, so if I were you, I wouldn’t let that chance pass me by.

2. Elton John: The Million Dollar Piano

It’s no wonder Mr. John debuted second. Elton John's residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, titled "The Million Dollar Piano," ran from 2011 to 2018. The show was named after John’s piano, which was adorned with over 68 LED screens. This residency grossed approximately $169 million over its full run, making it one of the most successful in Vegas history. John’s blend of classic hits, flamboyant costumes, and unmatched showmanship made this residency a must-see in Sin City.

3. Britney Spears: Piece of Me

Britney Spears’ residency at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, titled "Piece of Me," ran from 2013 to 2017. This show marked a significant turning point in Spears’ career, reviving her status as a pop icon. In fact, the residency was so successful that it grossed over $137 million and was extended multiple times. Spears performed nearly 250 amazing shows, drawing fans from across the globe - and proving that she remains a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

4. Garth Brooks: Garth at Wynn

Country superstar Garth Brooks brought his unique blend of storytelling and acoustic performances to the Encore Theatre at Wynn Las Vegas from 2009 to 2014. Although this residency was smaller in scale compared to others on this list, it still grossed a staggering $100 million. Brooks’ ability to connect with his audience through intimate performances made this residency a standout, attracting both country fans and general music lovers alike.

5. Jennifer Lopez: All I Have

Jennifer Lopez’s residency, "All I Have," at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, ran from 2016 to 2018. The show was a high-energy, multimedia extravaganza that showcased Lopez’s talents as a singer, dancer, and entertainer. Her residency grossed approximately $101 million and was praised for its elaborate choreography and dazzling costumes, and, needless to say, Lopez’s undeniable stage presence. With over 120 performances, Lopez’s residency was a clear ode to her enduring popularity and star power.

6. Cher: Classic Cher

Cher’s residency, "Classic Cher," was held at both The Park Theater at Park MGM and The Theater at MGM National Harbor, and it ran from 2017 to 2020. The show grossed nearly $100 million and featured a mix of Cher’s biggest hits from the 70s and early 80s, along with stunning visuals and costume changes (including a stunning peacock-style headdress). Cher’s residency was a celebration of her decades-long career, and her ability to continuously reinvent herself made this show a hit with audiences of all ages.

7. Bruno Mars: An Evening with Bruno Mars

Bruno Mars brought his dynamic and charismatic performances to the Park Theater at Park MGM in 2016, and his residency has continued in various forms up to this day. Mars’ unique blend of funk, pop, and R&B, combined with his electrifying stage presence, has made his residency one of the most popular in Vegas. Grossing over $53 million, Mars has proven that he is one of the most versatile and talented performers of his generation.

8. Rod Stewart: The Hits

Rod Stewart’s residency, "Rod Stewart: The Hits," at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace began in 2011 and has been running intermittently ever since. The show, which features Stewart’s biggest hits from his five-decade career, has grossed over $50 million. Stewart’s distinctive husky voice and timeless songs have made this residency a favorite among both longtime fans and new audiences.

9. Aerosmith: Deuces Are Wild

Who says it’s only pop stars with Vegas residencies? Rock legends Aerosmith brought their "Deuces Are Wild" residency to the Park Theater at Park MGM in 2019. The show features a combination of classic hits, cutting-edge audiovisual technology, and the band’s signature energy and charisma. Grossing over $30 million in just a few years, this residency has been a massive success, and it appeals to rock fans who flock from all around the world.

10. Backstreet Boys: Larger Than Life

The Backstreet Boys’ residency, "Larger Than Life," at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino ran from 2017 to 2018. The show grossed over $35 million and was a nostalgic trip for fans of the iconic boy band, who grew up in the mid-90s with their iconic hits (including yours truly). With high-energy performances and all the hits that made them famous, the Backstreet Boys proved that they still have what it takes to captivate audiences.

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The evolution of Las Vegas residencies

As surprising as it may seem, Las Vegas residencies have evolved significantly over the years. Initially, they were seen as a place for older artists to wind down their careers (e.g., a place where artists went when they were ready to call it quits), but that perception has changed drastically. Today, residencies are viewed differently: they are seen as a prestigious opportunity for artists of all ages to connect with their fans in an intimate setting, while also ensuring a steady income stream. The success of these residencies has prompted many other artists to consider the Vegas Strip as a viable and lucrative option for their tours, like Adele and Lady Gaga, and bands like The Killers, who have a residency at The Colosseum as we speak. These artists are at the peak of their success, and the fact that they’ve chosen to regale audiences in Las Vegas for more than a few years speaks volumes.

The future of Vegas residencies

As Las Vegas continues to grow as a grand global entertainment hub, especially with the opening of The Sphere, Las Vegas’ ultimate event venue with U2 gracing its stage last year, the demand for residencies is likely to increase. Artists from various genres are recognizing the benefits of having a stable base where they can consistently perform while also enjoying the perks of living in one of the most vibrant cities in the world. With newer state-of-the-art venues being built and an ever-growing influx of tourists, the future of Vegas residencies looks brighter than ever, and the Las Vegas galaxy continues to dazzle the multitudes.