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Who wrote the most hit songs?

Published in Hit Songwriters 1 min read

Paul McCartney has written the most number-one hit songs, making him the most prolific songwriter in terms of chart-topping success.

The metric often used to define the greatest number of "hit songs" is the total count of number-one singles achieved on major music charts. By this significant measure, Paul McCartney stands at the pinnacle of songwriting achievement.

Leading Songwriters by Number-One Hits

Paul McCartney holds the remarkable record for writing an impressive 32 number-one singles. His enduring legacy as a songwriter is unparalleled, with songs that have dominated charts across decades.

Following McCartney, the acclaimed Swedish songwriter Max Martin has solidified his place among the elite. As of March 2024, Max Martin has penned 27 number-one singles, surpassing the legendary John Lennon. John Lennon himself contributed to 26 number-one singles, showcasing his immense impact on popular music.

These figures highlight the extraordinary talent and consistent ability of these individuals to create songs that resonate widely and achieve the ultimate commercial success. Their compositions have not only topped charts but have also become iconic pieces of music history.

Songwriter Number of Number-One Singles
Paul McCartney 32
Max Martin 27
John Lennon 26