The original opening theme song for House M.D.’s United States broadcast was “Teardrop” by Massive Attack.
The song accompanied the show’s opening title sequence in the original American presentation. Its electronic rhythm and distinctive vocal line became closely associated with the series, helping establish a mood that was both clinical and unsettling.
“Teardrop” was released by the English group Massive Attack on the 1998 album Mezzanine. Elizabeth Fraser of the Cocteau Twins provided the song’s vocals. The track’s use on House M.D. gave it renewed visibility among television audiences.
International broadcasts did not always use the same music. Licensing restrictions led some versions of the opening sequence to substitute other compositions, including “House, M.D.” by Scott Donaldson and Richard Nolan in certain markets. This is why viewers may remember different theme music even though “Teardrop” is the canonical original U.S. theme.