When it comes to timeless rock anthems, few bands have left a mark as indelible as The Troggs. Known for their raw energy, primal rhythms, and infectious hooks, The Troggs burst onto the music scene in the 1960s, quickly becoming one of the most influential bands of their era. From gritty garage rock to folk-tinged ballads, their music transcended genres and inspired countless artists that followed. With a sound that was both rebellious and heartfelt, The Troggs delivered songs that captured the spirit of a generation—and their appeal continues to resonate today.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through the top 10 most popular Troggs songs of all time, from their chart-topping hits to the deep cuts that still send shivers down the spine of rock enthusiasts everywhere. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering their music, these tracks showcase the band at their finest, revealing why The Troggs remain a pillar of rock history. So, turn up the volume, let the guitars wail, and relive the magic of one of Britain’s most legendary rock bands—starting with the unforgettable tracks that defined their legacy!
1. Wild Thing (1966)
Few songs in rock history are as instantly recognizable as “Wild Thing.” Released in 1966, this track became the anthem of the garage rock movement with its raw simplicity and primal energy. The iconic three-chord riff, combined with Reg Presley’s gravelly vocals, created an irresistible combination that captured the rebellious spirit of the 1960s. Written by Chip Taylor, “Wild Thing” showcased The Troggs’ stripped-down, gritty sound and topped the charts in both the UK and the US. Its influence can still be felt today, as countless artists have covered it, making it an enduring classic of rock ‘n’ roll.
2. Love Is All Around (1967)
Released in 1967, “Love Is All Around” is one of The Troggs’ most enduring ballads. With its tender lyrics and soothing melody, the song became an instant favorite, reaching the top 10 in multiple countries. Unlike the raw energy of “Wild Thing,” this track showcases a softer, more romantic side of the band. The song’s simple yet heartfelt sentiment about love’s omnipresence has kept it relevant for decades, with a famous cover by Wet Wet Wet in 1994 further cementing its legacy. Reg Presley’s sincere delivery and the gentle acoustic arrangement make this a timeless love song.
3. With a Girl Like You (1966)
Another 1966 gem from The Troggs, “With a Girl Like You” is a breezy, upbeat tune that quickly became a hit, reaching number one in the UK. The song’s catchy melody and playful lyrics encapsulate youthful romance and longing. Its infectious rhythm, paired with Presley’s charismatic vocals, made it an instant staple of the 60s music scene. The track’s irresistible charm lies in its simplicity, with a sing-along chorus that remains a fan favorite at live performances to this day.
4. I Can’t Control Myself (1966)
“I Can’t Control Myself” is one of The Troggs’ most provocative tracks, released in 1966. The song’s raw, urgent lyrics and Presley’s impassioned delivery caused quite a stir upon its release, with some radio stations even considering it too suggestive to play. Despite—or perhaps because of—its controversial nature, the song became a top 5 hit in the UK. The pulsating beat and raw energy made it clear that The Troggs were not just about love songs but could also deliver a high-octane rock experience.
5. Any Way That You Want Me (1966)
In 1966, The Troggs released the soulful “Any Way That You Want Me,” showing yet another facet of their musical versatility. This song, with its moody, atmospheric tone, leaned more toward the folk-rock side of their repertoire. Presley’s voice carries a sense of longing and vulnerability, perfectly complementing the song’s introspective lyrics. Though it didn’t achieve the same commercial success as “Wild Thing,” it remains a beloved track among fans and demonstrates the band’s ability to convey deep emotion through their music.
6. Night of the Long Grass (1967)
“Night of the Long Grass” arrived in 1967, offering a darker, more psychedelic flavor compared to The Troggs’ earlier hits. The eerie, hypnotic melody sets the stage for a haunting love song, with Presley’s vocals taking on a mysterious, almost otherworldly tone. The track’s unconventional structure and atmospheric instrumentation made it stand out during the height of the psychedelic rock era. While not as commercially successful as some of their other tracks, it’s a cult favorite among fans of the band’s more experimental work.
7. Give It to Me (1967)
Also released in 1967, “Give It to Me” is a driving, blues-influenced track that finds The Troggs returning to their rock roots. With its tight rhythm section and Presley’s commanding vocal delivery, the song captures the essence of the band’s raw, unfiltered energy. The track’s straightforward, no-nonsense approach to rock music is what made The Troggs such a powerful force during the 60s. While it didn’t reach the heights of “Wild Thing” or “Love Is All Around,” it remains a fan favorite for its relentless groove and swagger.
8. Hi Hi Hazel (1966)
“Hi Hi Hazel” is a fun, upbeat track that was released in 1966 and became a popular live staple for the band. The song’s lively rhythm and playful lyrics tell the story of a girl named Hazel, with a catchy chorus that’s hard to forget. While it didn’t achieve the same chart success as some of their other hits, its infectious energy and feel-good vibe make it a favorite among Troggs fans. It’s a perfect example of the band’s ability to craft catchy, danceable tunes that appeal to a wide audience.
9. You Can Cry If You Want To (1968)
“You Can Cry If You Want To,” released in 1968, is a heartfelt ballad that showcases The Troggs’ ability to deliver emotion-driven songs with sincerity. The song’s gentle arrangement, combined with Presley’s tender vocals, makes it a standout track in their discography. Its melancholy tone and introspective lyrics offer a break from the band’s more raucous tracks, proving they were capable of much more than just garage rock. Though often overshadowed by their bigger hits, this song has a special place in the hearts of fans who appreciate the band’s softer side.
10. From Home (1966)
“From Home,” the B-side to “Wild Thing,” was also released in 1966 and is a lesser-known yet equally powerful track. With its driving beat and gritty guitar riff, it complements the raw energy of its more famous counterpart. The song’s lyrics, penned by Reg Presley, tell a story of longing and desire. While it didn’t achieve the same commercial success as “Wild Thing,” “From Home” showcases the band’s knack for creating infectious, no-frills rock songs that capture the essence of the 60s music scene.
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.
