In the last 20 years, the Broadway catalog has grown to often include the jukebox musical, which uses previously written music to score a Broadway show. Sometimes, the music is used to tell a completely different and unrelated story, like that of Mamma Mia, & Juliet, or Rock of Ages, but more often, they are used to tell the life and career story of that very artist. With two new entries to the list this season, including Jonathan Groff’s suave singing as Bobby Darin in Just in Time and James Monroe Iglehart’s smooth satchmo Louis Armstrong in A Wonderful World, we are looking back at the history of these portrayals of music icons.
Michael Jackson – MJ the Musical (2022–Present)
Moonwalks and megahits define this electric look at Jackson during his 1992 “Dangerous” tour rehearsals. Myles Frost won the 2022 Tony Award for his portrayal of the King of Pop.
Neil Diamond – A Beautiful Noise (2022–2024)
Diamond’s life and lyrics shine in this bio-musical that spans decades of sequins and songcraft.
Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons – Jersey Boys (2005–2017, 2021 Off-Broadway)
The falsetto, the flair, the mob ties — a Tony-winning tribute to New Jersey’s finest that gave this musical theatre subgenre its kickstart.
The Temptations – Ain’t Too Proud (2019–2022)
From street corners to superstardom, the Temps’ story grooves through betrayal, brotherhood, and “My Girl.”
Carole King – Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (2014–2019)
The shy songwriter turned solo superstar gets her due, piano and all.
Billie Holiday – Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill (2014)
Audra McDonald made history channeling Lady Day in a harrowing, jazz-soaked final concert.
Cher – The Cher Show (2018–2019)
Three Chers, one legend — from Sonny & Cher stardom to solo icon status.
Gloria Estefan – On Your Feet! (2015–2017)
Conga lines and Cuban rhythms power this celebration of the Estefans’ rise from Miami to the world stage.
Donna Summer – Summer: The Donna Summer Musical (2018)
Disco’s reigning queen reigned again through three performers, each reflecting a different era.
Tina Turner – Tina: The Tina Turner Musical (2019–2024)
Raw vocals and resilience define this high-octane journey through Tina’s turbulent life and legendary hits.