Placebo is an alternative rock band formed in London in 1994. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist Brian Molko, bassist Stefan Olsdal, and drummer Steve Forrest. Known for their androgynous style and Molko’s distinctive vocals, Placebo has released seven studio albums, with their self-titled debut album becoming a cult classic.
The band’s music is characterized by a combination of punk rock, glam rock, and grunge, often exploring themes of gender identity, drug use, and relationships. Placebo’s lyrics are known for their introspective and often dark nature, exploring themes such as depression and addiction.
Some of their most well-known songs include “Nancy Boy,” “Every You Every Me,” “Pure Morning,” and “The Bitter End.” In addition to their commercial success, Placebo has been praised for their live performances, which are known for their energy and Molko’s captivating stage presence.
Throughout their career, Placebo has been influential in the alternative rock scene, inspiring other bands with their unique sound and style. Despite lineup changes over the years, the band has maintained their distinctive sound and loyal fanbase.
1. Every You Every Me
“Every You Every Me” is a popular alternative rock song by the English band Placebo, released in 1998. The song features a catchy guitar riff and a driving rhythm section, with lead singer Brian Molko delivering his distinctive vocals and evocative lyrics. The song’s lyrics explore themes of obsession and desire, with a dark and moody atmosphere that perfectly captures the song’s melancholic tone. “Every You Every Me” is a fan favorite and a classic of the alternative rock genre, and remains a popular choice for movie and television soundtracks to this day.
2. The Bitter End
“The Bitter End” is a popular alternative rock song by the English band Placebo, released in 2003. The track features a dynamic blend of driving guitars, pulsing drums, and lead singer Brian Molko’s distinctive vocals, with lyrics that express a sense of despair and desperation. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “I’m running out of time, I’m out of step and closing down,” has become an iconic phrase associated with the song. “The Bitter End” has been praised for its energy, raw emotion, and anthemic qualities, and has become a fan favorite and a staple of Placebo’s live shows.
3. Running Up That Hill
“Running Up That Hill” is a cover song originally by Kate Bush, and Placebo made their own version of it in 2006. The song is characterized by its haunting and atmospheric sound, with Brian Molko’s distinct vocals adding an intense emotional depth to the lyrics. The band’s interpretation of the song retains the original melody and rhythm, while adding their signature touch with their rock-infused sound. The lyrics explore themes of empathy and understanding in relationships, as the protagonist expresses a desire to swap places with their partner to gain a better understanding of their perspective. Placebo’s version of “Running Up That Hill” became one of their most popular and beloved songs, cementing their place in the music industry as a band with a unique sound and vision.
4. Special Needs
“Special Needs” is a popular alternative rock song by the English band Placebo, released in 2003 on their album “Sleeping with Ghosts”. The song features a melodic guitar riff and a lush, atmospheric sound, with lead singer Brian Molko’s distinctive vocals and introspective lyrics. The song’s lyrics explore themes of vulnerability and the need for human connection, with a melancholic and introspective tone that perfectly captures the song’s emotional depth. “Special Needs” is a fan favorite and a standout track on the album, demonstrating Placebo’s ability to blend dark and moody atmospheres with catchy melodies and insightful lyrics.
5. Pure Morning
“Pure Morning” is a popular alternative rock song by the English band Placebo, released in 1998. The track features a hypnotic bassline, shimmering guitar work, and lead singer Brian Molko’s distinctive vocals, with lyrics that express a sense of longing and anticipation. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “A friend in need’s a friend indeed, a friend with weed is better,” has become a memorable catchphrase associated with the song. “Pure Morning” has been praised for its dreamy, atmospheric qualities, and has become one of Placebo’s most enduring hits, a must-listen for fans of the band and the alternative rock genre.
6. Song to Say Goodbye
“Song to Say Goodbye” is a melancholic track from Placebo’s 2006 album “Meds”. The song’s somber melody is complemented by the heartfelt lyrics which convey the pain and sorrow of saying goodbye to a loved one. Frontman Brian Molko’s emotive vocals and the haunting instrumental arrangement create an atmosphere of raw emotion, making the song a standout in Placebo’s discography. The track’s dark, brooding tone is also reflective of the album’s overall theme of addiction and self-destruction. “Song to Say Goodbye” is a poignant and powerful reminder of the pain that comes with letting go, yet still manages to leave a lasting impression with its memorable melody and poignant lyrics.
7. This Picture
“This Picture” is a melancholic yet catchy track from Placebo’s third album “Sleeping with Ghosts”. It starts with a subdued guitar riff that gradually builds up to a soaring chorus. The song explores themes of heartbreak and nostalgia, with lyrics that vividly describe a past relationship and the longing to relive those moments. Brian Molko’s vocals perfectly capture the emotions of the song, switching from a soft croon to a powerful delivery in the chorus. The arrangement is also notable, with layers of guitar and keyboards creating a dense yet atmospheric sound that perfectly complements the mood of the lyrics. Overall, “This Picture” is a standout track from Placebo’s impressive discography.
8. Beautiful James
“Beautiful James” is a haunting and melancholic track by the English alternative rock band, Placebo, released in 2003. The song’s slow and ethereal melodies are carried by lead singer Brian Molko’s emotive and almost fragile vocals, adding to the song’s reflective and introspective mood. The lyrics touch on themes of heartbreak, loss and the struggles of addiction, with lines like “The touch of your skin just lingers on my mind, and I find myself still searching in the night.” “Beautiful James” is a testament to Placebo’s talent for crafting introspective and emotionally charged songs that resonate with listeners.
9. Special K
“Special K” is a popular alternative rock song by the English band Placebo, released in 2001 on their album “Black Market Music”. The song features a driving, upbeat rhythm and catchy guitar riffs, with lead singer Brian Molko delivering his distinctive vocals and sharp lyrics. The song’s title refers to the drug ketamine, which is commonly used as an anesthetic but can also be abused as a recreational drug. The song’s lyrics explore the effects of drugs and addiction on relationships, with a dark and moody atmosphere that perfectly captures the song’s emotional intensity. “Special K” is a fan favorite and a standout track on the album, demonstrating Placebo’s ability to blend catchy hooks with serious subject matter.
10. Twenty years
“Twenty Years” is a song by Placebo, released in 2004 as a single from their fourth studio album “Sleeping with Ghosts”. The song is an introspective and haunting ballad, featuring lead vocalist Brian Molko’s signature emotive and vulnerable delivery. The lyrics explore themes of self-reflection, regret, and the passing of time, with a focus on the concept of aging and the impact of life experiences on one’s perspective. The song’s atmospheric and melancholic instrumentation, with its subtle use of electronic and orchestral elements, perfectly complements the poignant and introspective lyrics, making it one of the standout tracks in the band’s discography.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
