Music has the power to move us, and the stories behind some of the greatest musicians can be just as inspiring. Music biopics give us a unique chance to peek behind the curtain and see how iconic artists rose to fame, fought through challenges, and created music that changed the world. Over the years, audiences have been captivated by films that bring these stories to life. Here are some of the best music biopics of all time, including the latest release, A Complete Unknown.

1. A Complete Unknown (2023)

The newest entry into the world of music biopics is A Complete Unknown, a film about the legendary singer-songwriter Bob Dylan. Known for his poetic lyrics and groundbreaking contributions to music, Dylan has remained an enigmatic figure in popular culture. A Complete Unknown explores both his rise to fame in the 1960s and his personal struggles as he navigated the pressures of stardom.

The film stars Timothée Chalamet in the role of Dylan. It dives into some of his most iconic moments, from performing at protests to creating groundbreaking albums like The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan and Highway 61 Revisited. What makes A Complete Unknown stand out is its portrayal of Dylan’s ability to reinvent himself time and time again, refusing to fit into a single box. It captures not only his genius but also his complicated, human side. For fans of folk and rock music, this biopic is a must-watch.

2. Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)

Freddie Mercury’s life and music were as bold and unforgettable as the man himself. Bohemian Rhapsody takes us on a journey with Mercury and Queen, one of the most iconic rock bands of all time. Rami Malek’s incredible performance as Mercury earned him an Academy Award, and it’s easy to see why—he nailed everything from Freddie’s flamboyant stage presence to his emotional vulnerability.

The film covers Queen’s early days, their struggles to find their sound, and their rise to superstardom. One of the most memorable parts of the movie is the recreation of the band’s legendary performance at Live Aid in 1985. Fans were blown away by how real it felt, and the movie became one of the highest-grossing biopics of all time. But at the heart of it, Bohemian Rhapsody shows us the highs and lows of Mercury’s life, reminding us of the incredible legacy he left behind.

3. Rocketman (2019)

Few musicians’ lives are as colorful and dramatic as Elton John’s, and Rocketman delivers his story with all the emotion and flair you’d expect. Starring Taron Egerton as Elton, the movie combines elements of musical fantasy with traditional biographical storytelling. It doesn’t shy away from showing Elton’s struggles with addiction, loneliness, and self-acceptance—yet it’s also a celebration of his spectacular career.

From his start as a shy boy named Reginald Dwight to his explosive success as a flamboyant rock star, Rocketman highlights Elton’s resilience and creativity. The movie features some of his most famous hits, including “Tiny Dancer,” “Your Song,” and, of course, “Rocket Man.” What makes Rocketman unique is how it uses these songs to tell Elton’s story, turning his music into a part of the narrative. It’s a vibrant, emotional film that’s as unforgettable as Elton himself.

4. Ray (2004)

Ray tells the inspiring story of Ray Charles, the legendary musician who overcame incredible challenges to shape modern music. Played brilliantly by Jamie Foxx, the film traces Ray’s life from his difficult childhood in Georgia—where he lost his sight at a young age—to his career-changing success as a pioneer in jazz, blues, and soul music.

The movie doesn’t shy away from the hardships Ray faced, including his struggles with addiction and personal relationships. But it also celebrates his genius as a musician, focusing on how he broke racial barriers in the music industry and created timeless hits like “Hit the Road Jack” and “Georgia on My Mind.” Jamie Foxx’s performance is so powerful that he won an Academy Award for Best Actor, and the movie remains a must-watch for anyone who loves music and stories of triumph.

5. Walk the Line (2005)

Johnny Cash’s deep voice and powerful lyrics left a permanent mark on country and rock music. Walk the Line brings his story to life, focusing on his complicated romance with June Carter and his struggles with drugs and fame. Joaquin Phoenix plays Johnny, while Reese Witherspoon won an Oscar for her portrayal of June.

The film captures Johnny’s early struggles growing up on a cotton farm, his rise to stardom, and his battles with addiction. But at its core, Walk the Line is a love story. Johnny and June’s relationship wasn’t perfect, but their bond helped him find redemption and create some of his most iconic music, like “Ring of Fire” and “Folsom Prison Blues.” The movie is emotionally gripping and serves as a heartfelt tribute to the Man in Black.

Whether it’s the soaring highs or the heartbreaking lows, music biopics give us a deeper understanding of the people who shaped the soundtrack of our lives. And with films like A Complete Unknown continuing the trend, it’s clear that these stories will keep inspiring fans for generations to come.