Which band performed “Teardrop,” the theme used for House M.D.’s main American opening?

Massive Attack performed “Teardrop,” the theme used for House M.D.’s main American opening.

“Teardrop” was released by the English music group Massive Attack in 1998. Its distinctive arrangement, including a prominent harpsichord-like keyboard figure and Elizabeth Fraser’s vocal, became strongly associated with the series after the song was used in the opening title sequence.

The song’s placement helped give House a mood different from many conventional medical dramas. The opening montage combines medical imagery, anatomical graphics, and cast credits, matching the program’s focus on investigation and the hidden causes of disease.

International broadcasts and later distribution versions did not always use the complete song. Some regions used alternate music or shortened openings because of licensing arrangements. That variation can cause confusion, but the canonical song most associated with the main U.S. opening is Massive Attack’s “Teardrop,” not a song by a similar alternative-rock band.