8 Best music biopics to watch before the new Amy Winehouse film

Nothing hits the high notes quite like a good music biopic! With amazing soundtracks, dazzling costumes and more than a little bit of drama, the genre is perfect for a film night that will have you singing along and tapping your toes.

The latest music biopic to grace the big screen is Back to Black, which tells the story of Amy Winehouse's tumultuous rise to stardom. Whether it will join the greats remains to be seen (early reviews are not exactly promising), but in the mean time, we dive into a few other films that offer music, glitz and glamour.

Measuring popularity by a unique index score—generated by reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, IMDb, Metacritic and Letterboxd—Betfair Slots has created a list of the best music biopics that you need to watch.

Coming in at number one is F Gary Gary's 2015 epic Straight Outta Compton. The film takes us to the streets of Compton, California, marked by street gangs, drug dealers, and police brutality, where iconic hip hop group N.W.A was born. We follow the rise and fall of the group's members (Eazy-E, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, MC Ren, and DJ Yella), who achieve both wild popularity and deep controversy due to their explicit lyrics and revolutionary music.

Members of N.W.A were involved closely in the production of the 2015 film, including Ice Cube and Dr Dre as producers, and it is dedicated to Eazy-E, who died in 1995. Ice Cube is played by his real life son, O'Shea Jackson Jr. The film achieves an index score of nine on Betfair Slots' index. 

Behind The Candelabra comes second with an index score of ten. Directed by the legendary Steven Soderbergh, the film offers a kaleidoscopic journey into the world of world-famous American entertainer Liberace (played by Michael Douglas) and his relationship with the much younger Scott Thorson (Matt Damon).

Things prove complicated as negative public opinions towards homosexuality at the time mean that Liberace is obsessed with hiding the relationship at any cost. Exploring the complexities of fame, love and identity, Behind The Candelabra is a visual feast, complete with some showstopping outfits!

Ray, the Jamie Foxx-led biopic on Ray Charles, finds itself in third place, with an index score of 12. Directed by Taylor Hackford, the film traces Charles's meteoric rise to stardom, his struggles with addiction, and his enduring legacy as a musical pioneer.

With a mesmerising performance that earned him an Academy Award, Foxx channels the soul and spirit of Charles, delivering a performance that transcends mimicry and embodies the essence of the iconic musician.

Rocketman soars with Taron Egerton's electrifying portrayal of the legendary Elton John, receiving an index score of 15. Directed by Dexter Fletcher, the film offers a vibrant and unconventional take on the traditional biopic format.

From its dazzling musical numbers to its raw and poignant moments, Rocketman captures Elton John's extraordinary life with infectious energy and heart. Egerton's transformative performance, coupled with the film's inventive storytelling, makes Rocketman a cinematic experience that resonates long after the final note fades.

With an index score of 17, Nowhere Boy explores the formative years of the iconic John Lennon. Directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, the film offers poignant insights into Lennon's early life, his complex relationships, and his burgeoning musical talent.

With Aaron Taylor-Johnson delivering a compelling performance as the young Lennon, Nowhere Boy paints a vivid portrait of the artist as a young man, capturing the essence of his creative genius and rebellious spirit.

Directed by Bradley Cooper, Maestro centres on the captivating relationship between Leonard Bernstein and Felicia Montealegre, portrayed with depth by Cooper and Carey Mulligan respectively. According to Betfair Slots it receives an index score of 19.

The film offers a nuanced exploration of love, ambition and sacrifice in the world of classical music, and explores Bernstein's relationship with David Oppenheim (Matt Bomer). With stunning cinematography and powerhouse performances, Maestro is a cinematic tour de force.

Rounding off our list with equal acclaim are Jersey Boys and Notorious, both offering unique perspectives on the lives of musical luminaries, Frankie Valli and The Notorious B.I.G. respectively. Directed by Clint Eastwood, Jersey Boys offers a nostalgic journey into the world of 1960s pop music (along with some mob drama), while Notorious provides a gritty and unflinching look at the life and legacy of one of hip hop's greatest icons.

As we wait to see what Back to Black has to offer, these music biopics will hit the spot with gripping stories and great songs. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and immerse yourself in the music!