album · November 28, 1977

Funkentelechy Vs. the Placebo Syndrome

Parliament

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This 1977 release features a more streamlined, disco-influenced sound than previous Parliament albums, yet it retains the band's signature heavy funk grooves and absurdist lyrical themes. It was a commercial high point for the band, reaching #1 on Billboard's R&B chart.

• "Funkentelechy Vs. the Placebo Syndrome" reached number 1 on Billboard's R&B Albums chart and #26 on the Billboard 200.
• The album's title is a satirical take on the placebo effect and the band's own brand of "funkentelechy," a spiritual and physical unison achieved through funk music.
• The iconic album cover art was created by artist Pedro Bell, who was responsible for many of Parliament-Funkadelic's most memorable visual works during the 1970s.

Parliament, a collective of musicians from the greater Detroit area, is best known for its pioneering work in funk music. The band, led by George Clinton, released "Funkentelechy Vs. the Placebo Syndrome" during their peak 1970s creative period.