Oprah Winfrey and Beyonce Knowles have recently created a duet called "Wealthy and Powerful Black Women" by taking the top two spots on the Forbes Celebrity 100 list. I wasn't surprised by the ranking, and I was happy about it. The ranking wasn't just based on income, it was also based on press clippings, mentions on the Web, magazine covers and anything else that proves that people care who are you and what you're up to.

The reason I'm happy to see Beyonce and Oprah at the top of the Forbes list is because they are positive creatures. Neither of them became famous by selling their souls, hurting others or engaging in raunchy behavior. They are known for being tough businesswomen, yet compassionate enough to give to the causes they care about. They've inspired millions of black women and serve as tremendous role models for young black girls who want to be captains of their own destiny.


Speaking of being a captain, part of what allows Oprah and Beyonce to keep it real in the "realest" kind of way is that they are bosses of their domains. Oprah earned $315 million, not because she is a great talk show host but because she runs the companies with which she is affiliated. She is as much a businesswoman, producer and decision maker as she is a host.

Beyonce made $87 million, not just by singing and dancing but by running a fashion empire and establishing her brand all over the world with significant business relationships. In other words, neither Oprah nor Beyonce can ever be fired by anyone, and they will both continue to make piles of money long after their looks have faded and their physical energy has depleted itself. This is what building wealth is truly all about. It's not just about fame and fortune; it's also about knowing how fame and fortune are ultimately manufactured products created by corporate America.

Millions of Americans adore Beyonce and Oprah, neither of whom waited for some rich guy on a white horse to save them. They didn't hope for a magical "big break" given to them by someone else, cutting off their lifeline to the public. Instead, they worked with people they trusted, learned how business works and built empires that will sustain themselves long after they are gone. They give meaning to the word "boss."

Dr. Boyce Watkins is the founder of the Your Black World Coalition and the author of the new book 'Black American Money.' To have Dr. Boyce's commentary delivered to your e-mail, please click here.