Expert: James Michael Anderson - 6/28/2010

Question
Exactly how many songs did the Beatles write?

Answer
Unless you really keep a tight handle on scope as it relates to songs released vs. bootlegged or given to others, the number can fluctuate.  I would put the number in at ~212.

There are about 310 Beatles songs. Counting all albums, Past Masters Vol 1 and 2, Let It Be...Naked, live @ the BBC, and 3 singles from the anthologies: "Free as a Bird", "Real Love", and "A Beginning" (prelude to Yellow Submarine). Some of the songs the Beatles didn't write, but sing. Also a couple, like "A Beginning" are composed songs by George Martin.

The Beatles performed 193 songs not including bootlegs and unofficial material that would be released in future compilations.

The Beatles recorded and released 214 different songs on original release albums, EP's and singles, about 20 of which were not written by the Beatles, and about 30 they never released or gave to other artists.

Hope that helps!