Big Brother and the Holding Company is an American rock band that gained prominence in the late 1960s. They are best known for their association with Janis Joplin, a dynamic vocalist who joined the group in 1966. The band's musical style blends elements of blues, rock, and psychedelia, with a raw, energetic sound showcased in their influential album, "Cheap Thrills." Despite numerous line-up changes, Big Brother and the Holding Company's impact on the San Francisco music scene and their role in launching Joplin's career secure their significance in rock history.