Massive Attack performed “Teardrop,” the song used as the House M.D. theme in many broadcasts.
“Teardrop” was released by the English electronic group Massive Attack in 1998. The song features vocals by Elizabeth Fraser of the Cocteau Twins and became especially recognizable through its use in the show’s opening sequence.
The opening credits use a shortened version of the track over imagery related to anatomy and medicine, including an image of a fetus. The song’s distinctive harpsichord-like pattern and atmospheric production helped give House M.D. an immediately identifiable sound.
The theme was not identical in every territory or broadcast. Some international versions and later American broadcasts used alternate music, including a more instrumental arrangement. That variation is why viewers may remember a different opening theme while still correctly associating “Teardrop” with House M.D.