Placebo is an English rock band formed in London in 1994. The group consists of vocalist/guitarist Brian Molko and guitarist/bassist Stefan Olsdal. The band were soon joined by drummer Robert Schultzberg, who left in 1996 due to conflicts with Molko and was replaced the same year by Steve Hewitt.

Placebo gained exposure in 1997, after releasing "Nancy Boy", a song which Brian Molko described as "obscene". The band has sparked controversy at the beginning of their career because Molko wore dresses and make-up in public and talked openly about sex, sexuality and drug use.

The band collaborated with various artists over the years, including David Bowie, Justin Warfield, Michael Stipe and Alison Mosshart.