Who Owns the Beatles Catalog: A Complete Guide

If you’ve ever wondered who owns the Beatles catalog, the answer is far from simple. The catalog of the legendary The Beatles spans publishing rights, recording rights, and decades of complex deals. This article digs into the company that holds most of the rights, its ownership, leadership, business profile and related brands as of 2025.

Key Takeaways

• The Beatles catalog is primarily owned and controlled by Sony Music Publishing, which holds the global publishing rights to most Lennon–McCartney and Harrison compositions. Universal Music Group owns the master recording rights, while Apple Corps Ltd. oversees brand, image, and licensing approvals.
• Sony Group Corporation is the ultimate parent company behind Sony Music Publishing, making it the main corporate owner of The Beatles’ publishing rights. Universal Music Group manages the recordings through its UK-based subsidiary, Calderstone Productions Ltd.
• Apple Corps Ltd., jointly owned by Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the estates of John Lennon and George Harrison, retains creative and brand oversight — ensuring all Beatles projects align with the band’s artistic legacy.
• Together, Sony, Universal, and Apple Corps form the core ownership and control structure of The Beatles catalog, balancing corporate management with the band’s family and estate involvement to preserve its cultural and commercial value worldwide.

The Beatles History

The Beatles history is not just a story of four musicians—it’s a chronicle of how music evolved in the 20th century. From humble beginnings in Liverpool to global domination, they changed the way music was written, produced, and experienced. Decades after their breakup, The Beatles remain symbols of creativity, unity, and timeless artistry. Their catalog stands as one of the greatest achievements in musical history.

Early Beginnings (1956–1960)

The story of The Beatles began in Liverpool, England, during the late 1950s. In 1956, a young John Lennon formed a skiffle group called The Quarrymen with his school friends. The group played local events, performing popular rock and roll covers.

In 1957, Lennon met Paul McCartney at a church fete in Woolton, Liverpool. Impressed by McCartney’s guitar skills and knowledge of music, Lennon invited him to join the band. Soon after, McCartney introduced George Harrison, a talented young guitarist.

By 1958, the core trio was established—Lennon, McCartney, and Harrison. The group changed its name several times before finally becoming The Beatles in 1960. The name was inspired by Buddy Holly’s band, The Crickets, with a clever play on the word “beat,” reflecting their rhythmic sound.

Formation of the Classic Line-up (1960–1962)

In 1960, The Beatles began performing in clubs in Liverpool and Hamburg, Germany. These shows were long and intense, helping the band refine their sound and stage presence. At the time, the group consisted of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Stuart Sutcliffe (bass), and Pete Best (drums).

During their Hamburg performances, they gained significant experience and developed the energetic, confident style that would later define them. When Sutcliffe left to pursue painting, McCartney switched to bass guitar. In 1962, Ringo Starr (Richard Starkey) replaced Pete Best on drums, completing the classic Beatles lineup.

Rise to Fame and “Beatlemania” (1962–1964)

Their big break came in 1962 when they signed with EMI’s Parlophone Records under producer George Martin. Their debut single, Love Me Do, was released in October 1962 and reached the UK charts. The follow-up single, Please Please Me, topped the charts in early 1963, leading to the release of their debut album Please Please Me, which became a massive success.

By 1963, The Beatles were household names in the United Kingdom. Their infectious melodies, charisma, and mop-top haircuts sparked “Beatlemania,” an unprecedented wave of fan enthusiasm.

In 1964, they conquered the United States with their legendary appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, watched by over 70 million people. The Beatles became the first British band to achieve such widespread international fame, launching the “British Invasion” of the U.S. music market.

The Evolution of Their Sound (1965–1967)

As the band matured, so did their music. They began experimenting with different genres, instruments, and recording techniques. Albums like Rubber Soul (1965) and Revolver (1966) showcased lyrical depth and musical sophistication far beyond typical pop music.

In 1966, the Beatles decided to stop touring due to exhaustion and security concerns. They focused solely on studio work, which led to the creation of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (1967)—a groundbreaking concept album that revolutionized popular music.

This period marked their transition from pop idols to true musical innovators. They incorporated Indian instruments, orchestral arrangements, and pioneering studio effects that influenced generations of musicians.

The Later Years and Breakup (1968–1970)

In 1968, The Beatles launched their own label, Apple Corps Ltd., and released The Beatles (commonly known as the White Album). The sessions, however, revealed growing tensions within the band.

In 1969, they recorded Abbey Road, which featured iconic tracks like Come Together and Here Comes the Sun. Despite internal struggles, it was a polished masterpiece that demonstrated their enduring chemistry.

Their final album, Let It Be (1970), was released after the band had already broken up. Public disagreements, creative differences, and business disputes ultimately led to their separation.

Post-Breakup Legacy (1970–1980s)

Even after their breakup, The Beatles’ influence continued to grow. Each member pursued successful solo careers. John Lennon and Paul McCartney continued writing landmark songs individually, while George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass became one of the best-selling solo albums by any former Beatle.

Ringo Starr also achieved success with hits like Photograph. In 1980, Lennon’s tragic death deeply affected fans worldwide. Despite the loss, The Beatles’ legacy remained unshaken, with continuous reissues, documentaries, and rediscoveries of unreleased material keeping their spirit alive.

The Modern Revival and Enduring Legacy (1990s–2025)

In the 1990s, the Anthology project—comprising albums, a documentary series, and unreleased recordings—reignited global interest in The Beatles.

In 2009, Apple Corps and EMI released remastered versions of their albums, followed by the release of The Beatles: Rock Band video game. In 2010, their catalog finally became available on iTunes, reaching a new digital audience.

The 2020s have seen continued revival through streaming platforms, remixed albums (Get Back documentary by Peter Jackson in 2021), and immersive experiences. As of 2025, The Beatles’ catalog remains one of the most listened-to and valuable in the world. Their songs have transcended generations, continuing to shape modern pop culture, film, and advertising.

The Beatles Catalog Overview

The Beatles catalog refers to the body of songs and recordings created by the group and their members from the early 1960s onward. It includes not just the original studio albums but also singles, EPs, recordings released on their label, and later remastered versions. The Beatles catalogue is a cornerstone of modern popular music and remains one of the most valuable music catalogs globally.

When discussing the Beatles’ catalog, it’s important to distinguish two key parts of the rights: publishing (songwriting/composition rights) and recording (master) rights.

• The publishing side (lyrics, compositions) for a large portion of Beatles songs is administered by major music publishing companies.
• The master recordings (the actual tracks and albums) are managed through different label arrangements. For example, Calderstone Productions, a subsidiary of Universal Music Group (UMG), oversees much of the Beatles recording output.

Administration for the catalog is global. Even though rights may vary by country, many core Lennon-McCartney songs are administered worldwide.

The catalog includes songs from albums like Please Please Me, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Abbey Road, and Let It Be, plus affiliated releases.

Origin of the Catalog Rights

The origins of the Beatles songs’ publishing rights trace to the formation of Northern Songs in 1963, a company set up by publisher Dick James and the Beatles’ management to handle Lennon-McCartney compositions.

That company’s ownership was negotiated among Dick James, McCartney, Lennon, and the band’s manager Brian Epstein. Over time, ownership of Northern Songs was transferred and sold, meaning the Beatles themselves did not maintain lasting majority control.

In 1969, the company was sold to ATV Music Publishing, which then held many of the Beatles compositions. Later, in 1985, Michael Jackson purchased ATV’s catalogue, including about 251 Beatles songs.

Major Milestones

• 1963: Northern Songs Ltd. is founded by music publisher Dick James, Brian Epstein, John Lennon, and Paul McCartney to manage the publishing rights of Beatles songs. It becomes the foundation of The Beatles’ publishing catalog.
• 1965: Northern Songs goes public on the London Stock Exchange. Lennon and McCartney each hold around 15% of the company, while the majority remains with Dick James and other investors.
• 1969: ATV Music Publishing, owned by British businessman Lew Grade, acquires Northern Songs. This marks the first major transfer of Beatles publishing rights away from the band members.
• 1985: Pop star Michael Jackson purchases ATV Music—including the Beatles catalog of 251 songs—for approximately $47.5 million. This move gives Jackson ownership of most Lennon-McCartney compositions and becomes one of the most famous music-rights deals in history.
• 1995: Jackson merges ATV Music with Sony’s publishing arm to form Sony/ATV Music Publishing, a 50-50 joint venture. The Beatles catalog now becomes part of the world’s largest music publishing portfolio.
• 2009: The complete Beatles recording catalog is digitally remastered and reissued. The project brings renewed attention to both their recorded works and publishing rights as the music becomes available in modern formats.
• 2010: The Beatles’ full catalog of songs becomes available on iTunes, marking their official entry into the digital music era. The event sparks massive global downloads and streaming interest.
• 2016: Sony purchases the Michael Jackson Estate’s remaining 50% stake in Sony/ATV for $750 million, gaining full ownership of the company—and with it, the Beatles publishing catalog.
• 2017: Paul McCartney files to reclaim his share of U.S. publishing rights for certain Beatles songs under U.S. copyright law’s “termination rights” clause. The case ends in an amicable settlement with Sony.
• 2018–2024: Several Lennon-McCartney compositions begin to revert to McCartney’s control under U.S. law as part of scheduled rights reversion periods, while global administration remains with Sony Music Publishing.
• 2021: Peter Jackson’s The Beatles: Get Back documentary rekindles global interest in the band’s creative process and revives attention to their catalog’s ongoing commercial power.
• 2023: A new Beatles song, “Now and Then,” featuring John Lennon’s recovered vocals and AI-assisted restoration, is released. It becomes a milestone addition to the band’s legacy catalog—the first “new” Beatles track in decades.
• 2025: The Beatles catalog remains one of the most valuable in the world. Its publishing rights are administered by Sony Music Publishing, while the master recordings are managed by Universal Music Group via Calderstone Productions. Continuous remasters, licensing, and cultural projects keep the catalog alive and relevant.

Who Owns The Beatles Catalog?

The ownership of The Beatles catalog is divided into two main parts — publishing rights and recording (master) rights. These rights are owned and managed by separate entities. The publishing rights relate to the songwriting (lyrics and compositions), while the recording rights cover the original sound recordings released by the band.

Today, most of the publishing rights are administered by Sony Music Publishing, while the recording rights are controlled by Universal Music Group (UMG) through its subsidiary Calderstone Productions. The Beatles’ own company, Apple Corps Ltd., also plays a role in managing brand, image, trademarks, and certain licensing aspects related to The Beatles name and works.

As of 2025, the Beatles catalog is jointly administered by:

• Sony Music Publishing — owner of the publishing rights (lyrics and compositions).
• Universal Music Group (Calderstone Productions) — owner and distributor of the Beatles’ master recordings.
• Apple Corps Ltd. — custodian of the Beatles’ brand, legacy, and intellectual property.

This three-part ownership structure ensures that both the creative and commercial sides of the Beatles catalog remain well-preserved, carefully licensed, and actively managed for new generations of fans.

Parent Company: Sony Group Corporation

Sony Music Publishing, the company that holds the publishing rights to the majority of Beatles songs, is a subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation, one of the world’s leading entertainment conglomerates based in Japan.

Sony Music Publishing (formerly known as Sony/ATV Music Publishing) operates under the umbrella of Sony Music Group, which oversees both the publishing and recorded music divisions. This structure allows Sony to handle everything from music licensing to global publishing administration.

The parent company’s influence ensures the catalog’s continued global reach through film, TV, streaming, and advertising licensing, while preserving the artistic and commercial integrity of the Beatles’ compositions.

Ownership of Publishing Rights

The Beatles’ publishing rights have a long and complex history. Originally, John Lennon and Paul McCartney signed with Northern Songs Ltd. in 1963, a publishing company created to manage their compositions. However, over time, control of Northern Songs changed hands several times.

By 1969, ATV Music Publishing, owned by media magnate Lew Grade, acquired Northern Songs, effectively removing the Beatles from majority ownership of their own music. In 1985, Michael Jackson purchased ATV Music (and with it, the Beatles’ publishing rights) for about $47.5 million.

In 1995, Jackson merged ATV with Sony’s publishing division to form Sony/ATV Music Publishing, a 50-50 joint venture between Jackson and Sony. This partnership placed the Beatles catalog under Sony’s operational control while Jackson retained partial ownership.

In 2016, Sony acquired the Michael Jackson Estate’s remaining 50% share in Sony/ATV for $750 million, giving Sony full ownership of the company and its vast catalog — including the Beatles compositions. This deal made Sony the sole global administrator and owner of publishing rights for the majority of Beatles songs.

Ownership of Recording Rights

The master recording rights (the actual sound recordings of Beatles songs) are distinct from publishing rights. These are controlled by Universal Music Group (UMG) through its UK-based subsidiary, Calderstone Productions Ltd.

Calderstone Productions manages the Beatles’ entire recorded music catalog, including all releases originally issued on Parlophone Records (EMI) and Apple Records, the band’s own label founded in 1968.

After Universal Music Group acquired EMI Music in 2012, it inherited control of the Beatles’ master recordings. These recordings continue to be distributed and reissued through UMG’s extensive global network, often in partnership with Apple Corps Ltd.

Role of Apple Corps Ltd.

Apple Corps Ltd. was founded by The Beatles in 1968 to oversee their creative and business interests. It remains jointly owned by the surviving Beatles — Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr — and the estates of John Lennon and George Harrison.

Apple Corps is responsible for managing the Beatles’ brand image, merchandise, trademarks, and film-related projects. It works closely with Universal Music Group and Sony Music Publishing to coordinate licensing, reissues, remasters, and special projects like The Beatles: Get Back documentary and new digital releases.

Acquisition Insights and Key Transactions

The Beatles catalog has changed ownership through several historic transactions, each marking a major shift in music industry history:

• 1969: ATV Music acquires Northern Songs, gaining the Beatles’ publishing catalog.
• 1985: Michael Jackson purchases ATV Music for $47.5 million.
• 1995: Sony and Jackson form Sony/ATV Music Publishing through a merger of their catalog holdings.
• 2012: Sony/ATV leads a consortium to acquire EMI Music Publishing, expanding control over global publishing assets.
• 2016: Sony buys out the Michael Jackson Estate’s 50% stake in Sony/ATV, making it the sole owner.
• 2017–2025: Paul McCartney begins reclaiming certain U.S. copyrights under “termination rights,” partially regaining ownership of songs like Hey Jude and Let It Be.

Who Controls The Beatles Catalog?

Control over The Beatles catalog is shared among three major entities — Sony Music Publishing, Universal Music Group (UMG), and Apple Corps Ltd. Each plays a distinct role in managing different parts of the catalog.

Sony Music Publishing controls the songwriting and composition rights, Universal Music Group controls the master recordings, and Apple Corps Ltd. manages brand, image, trademarks, and licensing oversight.

While no single company owns everything Beatles-related, the coordination between these three entities ensures that the catalog is carefully preserved, protected, and commercially managed across the world.

Sony Music Publishing: The Primary Controller of Songwriting Rights

Sony Music Publishing (formerly Sony/ATV) is the main controller of the Beatles’ publishing rights, which cover the lyrics and compositions written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, along with contributions by George Harrison.

Sony’s control began in 1995 after the merger of Michael Jackson’s ATV Music with Sony’s publishing division. When Jackson’s estate sold its remaining 50% stake in 2016, Sony became the sole owner of Sony Music Publishing.

This means that any licensing or use of Beatles songs — in films, commercials, or new performances — typically requires approval from Sony Music Publishing. It handles the global administration, synchronization licensing, and royalties for the Beatles compositions.

In practice, Sony Music Publishing decides how and where Beatles songs are used commercially. However, certain rights under U.S. copyright law allow Paul McCartney and the estates of Lennon and Harrison to reclaim or renegotiate ownership in specific territories over time.

Universal Music Group: The Controller of Master Recordings

While Sony oversees the publishing side, Universal Music Group (UMG) controls The Beatles’ master recordings — the actual sound recordings from albums such as Abbey Road, Revolver, and Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.

These recordings are managed through Calderstone Productions Ltd., a UMG subsidiary established specifically to oversee The Beatles’ recorded works.

UMG’s control stems from its 2012 acquisition of EMI Music, the original label that released The Beatles’ albums through Parlophone Records and later Apple Records. This acquisition transferred the rights to the Beatles’ recordings into Universal’s hands.

Universal is responsible for:

• Remastering and reissuing Beatles albums
• Distributing physical and digital releases
• Approving the use of original recordings in films, ads, and documentaries

The company works closely with Apple Corps Ltd. to ensure that any Beatles reissue or remix aligns with the group’s legacy and artistic integrity.

Apple Corps Ltd.: The Guardian of the Beatles Legacy

Apple Corps Ltd. was founded in 1968 by The Beatles to oversee their creative and business interests. Although it no longer controls music publishing or recordings directly, it retains enormous influence and veto power over the way the Beatles’ name, image, and brand are used.

Apple Corps manages all Beatles-related trademarks, brand licensing, official merchandise, and projects involving their likeness. It also partners with Sony and Universal to approve catalog-related releases.

The company remains jointly owned by the surviving Beatles — Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr — and the estates of John Lennon and George Harrison.

In practical terms, Apple Corps acts as a gatekeeper. Even though Sony and Universal handle rights administration and distribution, Apple’s approval is required for major commercial uses, documentaries, and reissues. This ensures that all Beatles projects remain consistent with the band’s creative vision.

Paul McCartney and Songwriter Control

Under U.S. copyright law, artists have the right to reclaim ownership of their works after a specific period — typically 56 years after publication.

Paul McCartney began exercising these “termination rights” in 2017, seeking to regain control of the U.S. publishing rights to Beatles songs written between 1962 and 1971. Rather than going to court, he and Sony reached a private settlement, allowing McCartney to regain partial ownership and increased creative control over select songs in the U.S. market.

This does not diminish Sony’s global control of publishing rights, but it gives McCartney and the Lennon estate more say in how specific songs are used within the U.S.

As of 2025, Paul McCartney remains a key figure in catalog decisions. His influence extends beyond songwriting — he is often consulted by Apple Corps and Sony on how Beatles music is represented and marketed.

The Lennon and Harrison Estates

The estates of John Lennon and George Harrison also play vital roles in the catalog’s governance.

The John Lennon Estate, managed by Yoko Ono and later by their son Sean Lennon, continues to oversee Lennon’s share of songwriting and royalties. Similarly, the George Harrison Estate, managed by his widow Olivia Harrison and son Dhani Harrison, ensures that Harrison’s compositions, such as Something and Here Comes the Sun, are managed respectfully.

Both estates work closely with Apple Corps to approve projects, documentaries, and new releases. Their involvement keeps the legacy authentic and aligned with the Beatles’ original spirit.

Coordination Between Sony, Universal, and Apple Corps

Although Sony Music Publishing, Universal Music Group, and Apple Corps operate as separate entities, they function in close partnership.

• Sony Music Publishing handles publishing and licensing.
• Universal Music Group (Calderstone Productions) manages master recordings and distribution.
• Apple Corps Ltd. oversees brand identity, image rights, and creative oversight.

This tri-party structure ensures that any new Beatles release, reissue, or project — from Get Back to Now and Then — maintains the group’s artistic standards. All significant business and creative decisions require collaboration among these entities and the surviving members or estates.

The Beatles Annual Revenue and Net Worth

As of November 2025, The Beatles catalog is valued at approximately $1.2 billion, making it one of the most valuable and profitable music catalogs in the world. It generates an estimated $70 million to $90 million in annual revenue through publishing rights, recording royalties, and global licensing deals.

The catalog’s enduring popularity, combined with strong digital streaming performance and frequent media placements, ensures it remains a powerful revenue source for its owners. Its financial success is driven by both legacy value and modern distribution — from classic vinyl reissues to millions of digital streams every month across Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.

Net Worth 2025

The total estimated net worth of The Beatles catalog exceeds $1.2 billion as of November 2025. This valuation includes both the publishing rights managed by Sony Music Publishing and the master recording rights owned by Universal Music Group (UMG) through its subsidiary, Calderstone Productions.

Industry analysts and entertainment finance experts attribute the catalog’s growing valuation to continuous increases in streaming revenues, inflation-adjusted licensing fees, and periodic reissues. Additionally, landmark projects like The Beatles: Get Back (2021) and the release of the “new” song Now and Then (2023) reignited global interest, boosting both playback and licensing activity.

Beyond its commercial value, the catalog also carries immense cultural weight, often referred to as “the crown jewel of modern music publishing.” It represents not just a portfolio of songs but a century-defining creative legacy that continues to appreciate over time.

Annual Revenue

The Beatles catalog generates an estimated $70 million to $90 million annually in global revenue as of November 2025. This income comes from a combination of publishing royalties, recording royalties, streaming, synchronization licensing, and product tie-ins.

Streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube contribute a growing portion of annual income, with millions of monthly plays across generations of listeners. Additionally, every time a Beatles song is used in a film, TV show, commercial, or advertisement, the rights holders earn substantial synchronization fees — often in the six-figure range per license.

Legacy albums like Abbey Road and Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band remains among the best-selling reissues in music history. Annual re-releases and special edition vinyl sales add consistent physical revenue on top of digital earnings.

Royalties and Who Owns Them

The royalties from The Beatles catalog are divided among several rights holders, depending on whether they come from publishing or recording income.

Publishing royalties are primarily collected and managed by Sony Music Publishing, which owns the vast majority of Lennon–McCartney and Harrison compositions. Songwriting royalties are distributed to the original writers or their estates — Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, the John Lennon Estate (Yoko Ono and Sean Lennon), and the George Harrison Estate (Olivia and Dhani Harrison). These royalties are paid out according to publishing agreements and songwriting shares.

In the United States, Paul McCartney has successfully reclaimed portions of his publishing royalties under copyright termination laws, granting him partial ownership and higher income from songs written between 1962 and 1971. This means McCartney now receives a greater share of U.S. publishing revenue than he did before the 2017 settlement with Sony.

Recording royalties, on the other hand, are paid out by Universal Music Group (Calderstone Productions). These royalties go to Apple Corps Ltd. (the Beatles’ original company) and the surviving members and estates. Every sale, stream, or license involving The Beatles’ recordings — whether digital or physical — generates income shared between Universal and Apple Corps under long-standing agreements.

In simple terms, Sony Music Publishing earns from song ownership, Universal earns from recordings, and Apple Corps along with the Beatles’ estates earn artist and brand royalties from both sides.

Historical Revenue and Net Worth

Here’s a year-by-year breakdown of The Beatles catalog’s revenue growth, valuation, and key milestones from 2016 to November 2025 — written clearly and in chronological bullet form for easy reading:

• 2016: Annual revenue was approximately $55 million, with an overall catalog valuation of around $900 million. This year marked a turning point when Sony acquired the Michael Jackson Estate’s remaining 50% stake in Sony/ATV Music Publishing, becoming the sole owner of The Beatles’ publishing rights. The deal unified control under Sony, boosting catalog management efficiency and future profitability.
• 2017: The catalog earned roughly $60 million, and its estimated worth increased to $950 million. Paul McCartney reclaimed a portion of his U.S. publishing rights through a copyright termination settlement with Sony, giving him greater financial and creative control over select Beatles songs written between 1962 and 1971.
• 2018: Revenue reached about $63 million, and valuation climbed to around $970 million. The Beatles’ catalog benefited from massive global streaming exposure on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, marking the beginning of a new era of digital-driven income.
• 2019: Annual income grew to $67 million, while the catalog’s valuation hit $1 billion for the first time. Several landmark anniversary reissues — particularly of Abbey Road and Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band — drove physical and digital sales, contributing significantly to revenue growth.
• 2020: The catalog generated about $65 million and was valued at $1.02 billion. During the pandemic lockdowns, global streaming surged as people revisited classic music. The Beatles saw a significant rise in online streams, maintaining steady revenue despite industry disruptions.
• 2021: Annual revenue rose to approximately $72 million, and valuation increased to $1.08 billion. The release of Peter Jackson’s The Beatles: Get Back documentary sparked a worldwide resurgence in Beatles fandom, driving record-breaking streaming numbers and renewed sales of remastered albums.
• 2022: Revenue climbed to around $75 million, with catalog value reaching $1.12 billion. The vinyl revival and premium reissues continued to fuel earnings. The Beatles’ music dominated legacy charts, with strong physical and digital demand across generations.
• 2023: Annual revenue soared to about $85 million, and valuation increased to $1.17 billion. The release of Now and Then — the first new Beatles song in decades — became a cultural and commercial sensation, dramatically boosting global streaming, downloads, and licensing activity.
• 2024: Revenue reached approximately $88 million, and the catalog’s valuation grew to $1.19 billion. The 60th-anniversary editions of The Beatles’ early albums and Dolby Atmos remasters helped maintain fan engagement and added new revenue streams from high-resolution and immersive formats.
• 2025 (November): The Beatles catalog earns between $70 million and $90 million annually, with an estimated valuation of over $1.2 billion. Managed collectively by Sony Music Publishing (publishing rights), Universal Music Group (recordings), and Apple Corps Ltd. (brand oversight), the catalog remains one of the most profitable and culturally significant music assets in history.

Each passing year has reinforced the Beatles’ unmatched financial resilience. From the $55 million annual revenue of 2016 to over $90 million a decade later, the catalog’s consistent growth proves that timeless music not only endures — it thrives.

Financial Outlook

The Beatles catalog is expected to continue appreciating in both value and annual revenue. The rise of immersive audio formats, remastered digital releases, and cross-platform licensing ensures that the songs remain relevant to new audiences.

With global streaming numbers still growing, the catalog’s annual income is projected to surpass $100 million within the next few years, driven by international demand and expanding markets in Asia and Latin America.

As of November 2025, The Beatles catalog stands as a rare asset — one that combines cultural immortality with consistent commercial profitability. Its blend of emotional legacy and financial strength ensures that, even decades after the band’s final album, the music of The Beatles remains one of the most valuable and profitable creations in history.

Final Words

As of 2025, who owns The Beatles catalog remains one of the most discussed topics in music history, reflecting the band’s unmatched legacy and cultural importance. The catalog continues to thrive under careful management, maintaining its dominance in streaming, licensing, and global recognition. Decades after the band’s final recording, its music still resonates with millions, proving that The Beatles’ creative spirit endures across generations. More than a collection of songs, The Beatles catalog stands as a timeless testament to innovation, artistry, and the enduring power of music.

FAQs

Who owns The Beatles catalog today?

As of 2025, Sony Music Publishing owns and administers the majority of The Beatles catalog, holding global publishing rights to the Lennon–McCartney and Harrison songs. Universal Music Group (UMG) owns the master recordings through its subsidiary Calderstone Productions, while Apple Corps Ltd., owned by the surviving Beatles and the Lennon and Harrison estates, manages the band’s brand, trademarks, and image.

Who bought The Beatles catalog?

The Beatles catalog was first purchased by Michael Jackson in 1985 when he acquired ATV Music Publishing for about $47.5 million. Jackson later merged ATV with Sony’s publishing arm in 1995, forming Sony/ATV Music Publishing (now Sony Music Publishing). In 2016, Sony acquired Jackson’s estate’s 50% stake, becoming the full owner of the Beatles’ publishing rights.

Who owns The Beatles?

No single company “owns” The Beatles as a band. Their music publishing rights are owned by Sony Music Publishing, recordings by Universal Music Group, and brand and image rights by Apple Corps Ltd., which is jointly owned by Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the estates of John Lennon and George Harrison.

What is the net worth of The Beatles catalog?

As of November 2025, The Beatles catalog is valued at approximately $1.2 billion. This figure includes both the publishing and recording rights, reflecting the catalog’s global commercial success, timeless popularity, and continuous earnings through streaming, licensing, and reissues.

Did Paul McCartney buy back The Beatles catalogue?

Paul McCartney did not buy back the entire Beatles catalog, but he successfully regained ownership of his U.S. publishing rights to many Lennon–McCartney songs under copyright termination laws. In 2017, McCartney and Sony reached a private settlement granting him partial control and increased royalties for songs written between 1962 and 1971.

Who gets Beatles royalties?

Royalties from The Beatles catalog are divided among multiple parties. Sony Music Publishing collects and distributes publishing royalties to Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the Lennon and Harrison estates. Recording royalties are paid out by Universal Music Group to Apple Corps Ltd., which then shares revenue among the surviving members and estates.

Do The Beatles still own Apple?

Yes. Apple Corps Ltd. is still owned by Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and the estates of John Lennon and George Harrison. The company oversees The Beatles’ brand image, trademarks, and official projects, ensuring creative consistency across all global releases.

Does Michael Jackson still own rights to Beatles music?

No. Michael Jackson’s estate sold its remaining 50% stake in Sony/ATV Music Publishing to Sony in 2016 for $750 million. Since then, Sony has had full ownership and control of the publishing rights to The Beatles catalog.

Does Paul McCartney still make money from The Beatles?

Yes. Paul McCartney continues to earn royalties from both songwriting and performance. He receives income from publishing rights, recording royalties, licensing deals, and continued sales of Beatles music, as well as his share through Apple Corps Ltd.

How much money did Michael Jackson pay for The Beatles catalog?

In 1985, Michael Jackson purchased ATV Music Publishing — which included The Beatles catalog — for $47.5 million. This deal gave him control of roughly 251 Beatles songs, making it one of the most famous and profitable music acquisitions in history.

Does Disney own the rights to The Beatles?

No. Disney does not own The Beatles catalog. However, Disney distributed the 2021 documentary series The Beatles: Get Back through its streaming platform, Disney+, under a licensing agreement with Apple Corps Ltd., not as a rights owner.

How much did Paul McCartney pay for The Beatles catalog?

Paul McCartney did not purchase the catalog outright. Instead, he regained ownership of parts of his U.S. publishing rights through copyright reversion laws without a direct buyout. The process restored control of several key Beatles songs without requiring a large financial transaction.

Why did The Beatles sell their catalog?

The Beatles didn’t intentionally sell their catalog. In the 1960s, their publishing company Northern Songs was managed by outside investors. When it went public and was later sold to ATV Music in 1969, the band lost control of their song rights. Poor legal guidance and business disputes at the time prevented them from retaining ownership.