Cyclic lipopeptides having one or more modifications relative to daptomycin, and methods of making them are provided. The cyclic lipopeptides can be used as antibacterial agents. The daptomycin analogues are generated by chemical synthesis, which makes introduction of an unnatural amino acid and any modification into daptomycin possible. Pharmaceutical compositions and method of use thereof for the disclosed daptomycin analogues are also provided.