Stones nab tour record from U2

The Rolling Stones' A Bigger Bang is reportedly the highest-grossing tour yet.

The epic trek, which started a year ago, has already brought in $437m, according to Billboard magazine.

That beats the record previously held by U2, who made $333m with Vertigo.

The Stones' success came despite a string of problems including Mick Jagger's vocal difficulties and Keith Richards needing brain surgery after falling out of a palm tree in Fiji.

Tour producer Michael Cohl told the magazine the tour could continue into next year, making the end total likely to be at least $500m.

"I don't think we're done," Cohl said.

"There are still a lot of cancellations in Europe that the band feel obligated to try and make up.

"So I wouldn't be surprised if it keeps going next year.

"Definitely there was drama and hurdles, but at the end of the day, if you tour long enough, everything's gonna happen, isn't it?"

Before U2's Vertigo, the record was held by the Stones, who grossed $320m with Voodoo Lounge from 1994-95.

U2 will play more shows before the end of this year, which will take their total to about $377m, Billboard said.

A Bigger Bang has drawn 3.5 million people to 113 shows.

Legendary director Martin Scorsese is making a film about the tour.