The Troggs, an English rock band formed in the 1960s, etched their place in music history with their raw, primal sound and rebellious attitude. Hailing from Andover, Hampshire, the band comprised vocalist Reg Presley, guitarist Chris Britton, bassist Pete Staples, and drummer Ronnie Bond.
Their breakout hit, “Wild Thing” (1966), catapulted them to fame, with its infectious riff and bold, uninhibited vocals becoming an anthem of the era. The song’s simplicity and energy embodied the spirit of the burgeoning garage rock movement, earning it a permanent place in rock ‘n’ roll lore.
Following “Wild Thing,” The Troggs continued to churn out hits like “With a Girl Like You” and “Love Is All Around,” showcasing their knack for catchy melodies and infectious hooks. Their music resonated with audiences worldwide, influencing countless bands and musicians with their raw, unadulterated sound.
Despite lineup changes and periods of inactivity, The Troggs maintained a dedicated following and continued to perform live well into the 21st century. Their impact on the rock landscape endures, with their music remaining a staple of classic rock radio and playlists.
The Troggs’ legacy is one of rebellion, raw energy, and enduring influence, cementing their status as one of the pioneering bands of the 1960s rock scene.
1. Wild Thing
“Wild Thing” stands as a rock ‘n’ roll anthem that epitomizes the raw, rebellious spirit of the 1960s. Originally penned by American songwriter Chip Taylor, it was The Troggs’ gritty rendition that transformed the song into a timeless classic.
Released in 1966, “Wild Thing” became an instant hit, with its infectious guitar riff and primal vocals capturing the hearts of music fans worldwide. Reg Presley’s raspy delivery, coupled with the band’s energetic performance, imbued the song with an irresistible sense of urgency and excitement.
“Wild Thing” quickly climbed the charts, reaching the number one spot in the United States and solidifying The Troggs’ place in rock history. Its simple yet catchy lyrics and primal energy made it a favorite among audiences and a staple of jukeboxes and concert playlists.
Beyond its initial success, “Wild Thing” has endured as a rock ‘n’ roll standard, covered by countless artists and featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials. Its rebellious spirit and infectious groove continue to resonate with listeners of all generations, cementing its status as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
Whether it’s blasting through speakers at a wild party or inspiring air guitar solos in bedrooms around the world, “Wild Thing” remains a timeless anthem of freedom, rebellion, and rock ‘n’ roll spirit.
2. Love Is All Around
“Love Is All Around” is a tender ballad by The Troggs that radiates with heartfelt emotion and universal appeal. Released in 1967, the song captivated listeners with its poignant lyrics and soulful melody, earning it a permanent place in the annals of rock music.
With its gentle guitar strums and heartfelt vocals, “Love Is All Around” evokes a sense of warmth and intimacy, inviting listeners to bask in the power of love’s embrace. Reg Presley’s emotive delivery, filled with sincerity and longing, captures the essence of romantic devotion with striking poignancy.
Lyrically, the song celebrates the transcendent nature of love, with lines like “I feel it in my fingers, I feel it in my toes, love is all around me and so the feeling grows” expressing the omnipresence of love in our lives. It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply with audiences, touching hearts and inspiring countless romantics.
Despite being initially overshadowed by The Troggs’ earlier hit, “Wild Thing,” “Love Is All Around” has since become one of their most beloved songs, cherished for its timeless beauty and universal message of love and connection.
The song’s enduring popularity was further solidified by the cover version recorded by Wet Wet Wet in 1994 for the film “Four Weddings and a Funeral,” which topped the charts in multiple countries and introduced a new generation of listeners to The Troggs’ timeless classic.
Whether it’s played at weddings, on romantic evenings, or simply as a reminder of the power of love, “Love Is All Around” continues to touch the hearts of listeners with its heartfelt sentiment and soul-stirring melody, ensuring its place as a cherished gem in the treasure trove of rock ballads.
3. With a Girl Like You
“With a Girl Like You” is a classic rock song by The Troggs, released in 1966. It’s a catchy and upbeat tune with a distinctive guitar riff and infectious melody. The song’s lyrics express the joy and excitement of being in love with a special girl and the desire to spend time with her. “With a Girl Like You” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in the UK and achieving significant popularity in the United States as well. It’s considered one of The Troggs’ signature songs and remains a favorite among fans of 1960s rock music.
4. I Can’t Control Myself
“I Can’t Control Myself” is a high-energy rock song by The Troggs, characterized by its infectious rhythm and raw, primal energy. Released in 1966, the song became a hit for the band, showcasing their signature blend of garage rock and proto-punk.
From the moment the driving beat kicks in, “I Can’t Control Myself” grabs listeners’ attention with its irresistible groove and rebellious spirit. The Troggs’ gritty instrumentation, featuring distorted guitar riffs and pounding drums, creates a sense of urgency and excitement that is impossible to resist.
Lyrically, the song captures the exhilaration of young love and desire, with lines like “Your slacks are low and your hips are showing, I’m impressed, you’re ever knowing” painting a vivid picture of infatuation and lust. It’s a primal expression of passion and longing that resonated with audiences of the era and continues to captivate listeners today.
“I Can’t Control Myself” was a commercial success for The Troggs, climbing the charts and solidifying their reputation as one of the premier rock bands of the 1960s. Its infectious energy and rebellious attitude have ensured its enduring popularity, with the song remaining a favorite among fans of garage rock and proto-punk.
Whether it’s played at raucous parties or blasting from car stereos, “I Can’t Control Myself” continues to ignite the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll rebellion, reminding listeners of the power of music to evoke raw emotion and primal energy.
5. Anyway That You Want Me
“Anyway That You Want Me” is a song originally written by Chip Taylor and performed by The Troggs. Released in 1966, it’s known for its dreamy, psychedelic sound and heartfelt lyrics. The song expresses a willingness to do whatever it takes to please a romantic partner, reflecting themes of love and devotion. The Troggs’ rendition of “Anyway That You Want Me” became a hit and is considered one of their standout tracks, showcasing their ability to blend rock with more experimental and emotive elements. Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists, further cementing its status as a classic of the era.
6. Give It to Me
“Give It to Me” is a song by The Troggs, released in 1967. It’s a high-energy rock track with a driving beat and catchy guitar riff. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and desire, with the narrator pleading for their romantic interest to give them what they want. “Give It to Me” showcases The Troggs’ signature raw and gritty sound, with lead singer Reg Presley’s passionate vocals adding to the intensity of the song. While not as commercially successful as some of their other hits, “Give It to Me” remains a favorite among fans of garage rock and 1960s rock music.
7. Night of the Long Grass
“Night of the Long Grass” is a captivating psychedelic rock track by The Troggs, showcasing the band’s versatility and experimentation beyond their more well-known hits. Released in 1967, the song stands out for its dreamy atmosphere and intricate instrumentation.
From the ethereal guitar melodies to the swirling organ accompaniment, “Night of the Long Grass” transports listeners to a hazy, surreal landscape where reality blurs with imagination. The Troggs’ vocals, bathed in reverb and echo, add to the song’s otherworldly charm, creating an immersive listening experience.
Lyrically, the song explores themes of introspection and escapism, with cryptic imagery and poetic language painting a vivid picture of a journey into the unknown. Lines like “Down where the shadows play, there’s a world that waits for you, a land of make-believe, it’s all that’s true” evoke a sense of mystery and wonder, inviting listeners to lose themselves in the music.
Despite being less commercially successful than some of The Troggs’ other hits, “Night of the Long Grass” has earned a cult following among fans of psychedelic rock and 1960s counterculture. Its lush instrumentation and evocative lyrics continue to captivate listeners, transporting them to a time and place where anything is possible.
Whether it’s enjoyed on headphones in a darkened room or experienced live in concert, “Night of the Long Grass” remains a testament to The Troggs’ creativity and innovation as a band, showcasing their ability to push boundaries and defy expectations.
8. Hi Hi Hazel
“Hi Hi Hazel” is a song by The Troggs, released in 1967. It’s a lively and upbeat track with a catchy melody and infectious rhythm. The song’s lyrics tell the story of the narrator’s infatuation with a girl named Hazel, expressing excitement and admiration for her. “Hi Hi Hazel” showcases The Troggs’ knack for crafting catchy pop-rock tunes with memorable hooks and energetic performances. While it may not be as well-known as some of their other hits, “Hi Hi Hazel” remains a favorite among fans of 1960s rock music for its fun and playful vibe.
9. Evil Woman
“Evil Woman” is a dynamic rock song by The Troggs, notable for its gritty guitar riffs and infectious energy. Released in 1969, the track exemplifies the band’s versatility and ability to deliver powerful rock anthems alongside their more melodic hits.
From the opening chords, “Evil Woman” commands attention with its driving rhythm and bluesy guitar work. The Troggs’ raw vocals, filled with intensity and swagger, convey a sense of defiance and rebellion that captivates listeners from start to finish.
Lyrically, the song explores the archetype of the femme fatale, with lines like “Evil woman, don’t play your games with me” painting a vivid picture of a seductive and manipulative figure. It’s a theme that resonates with audiences, tapping into primal fears and desires while showcasing The Troggs’ knack for storytelling.
Despite being less commercially successful than some of their earlier hits, “Evil Woman” has earned a dedicated following among fans of garage rock and proto-punk. Its raw energy and rebellious attitude continue to inspire listeners, making it a favorite among aficionados of gritty, no-nonsense rock ‘n’ roll.
Whether it’s blasting from speakers at a rock concert or serving as the soundtrack to a wild night out, “Evil Woman” remains a testament to The Troggs’ enduring influence and legacy as pioneers of rock music.
10. Little Girl
“Little Girl” is a song by The Troggs, released in 1968. It’s a rock ballad featuring a melancholic melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who is deeply in love with a younger woman, expressing his feelings of longing and desire for her. Despite the age gap, the narrator is captivated by the girl’s innocence and beauty. “Little Girl” showcases The Troggs’ ability to convey emotion through their music, with lead singer Reg Presley’s soulful vocals adding to the song’s emotional depth. While not as commercially successful as some of their other hits, “Little Girl” remains a fan favorite for its poignant lyrics and heartfelt delivery.