The Troggs, one of the most iconic bands to emerge from the British Invasion of the 1960s, left an indelible mark on the world of rock music with their wild, raw sound and unforgettable hits. Best known for their primal energy, gritty vocals, and groundbreaking use of distortion, The Troggs were pioneers of garage rock and proto-punk, influencing generations of musicians to come. But what truly sets them apart are the timeless songs that continue to captivate listeners across the globe. Whether you’re already a fan or just discovering their music, this countdown of the top 10 most popular Troggs songs of all time will take you on a wild ride through their greatest moments. From chart-topping anthems to hidden gems that capture the essence of 1960s rock rebellion, these tracks showcase the full range of The Troggs’ talents. Get ready to relive the magic of songs that defined an era and inspired countless artists in their wake. Crank up the volume, because these are the unforgettable tunes that cemented The Troggs’ place in rock ‘n’ roll history. Let’s dive into the fiery, foot-stomping world of The Troggs’ greatest hits!
1. “Wild Thing” (1966)
There’s no denying that “Wild Thing” is The Troggs’ most iconic song, and for good reason. Released in 1966, this three-chord gem shook the music world with its grungy simplicity and primal energy. The rawness of Reg Presley’s vocals, paired with the unmistakable guitar riff, made it an instant classic. Its hypnotic rhythm and the growling delivery of “You make my heart sing!” captured the rebellious spirit of the 1960s. The song hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and remains a defining track in the history of rock ‘n’ roll. “Wild Thing” has been covered by countless artists, but The Troggs’ version remains the definitive version, thanks to that infectious, untamed sound that inspired the garage rock and punk movements.
2. “Love Is All Around” (1967)
Released in 1967, “Love Is All Around” is The Troggs at their most tender and romantic. A departure from their usual raw, edgy sound, this ballad features a sweet, lilting melody and heartfelt lyrics about the all-encompassing power of love. Reg Presley’s smooth, emotive vocals perfectly complement the song’s simple, yet elegant arrangement. The jangling guitar and soft percussion create a timeless sound that has made this song a wedding favorite for decades. While it didn’t reach the same chart-topping heights as “Wild Thing,” “Love Is All Around” is a beloved staple of 1960s pop music and gained renewed fame when covered by Wet Wet Wet in the 1990s.
3. “With a Girl Like You” (1966)
Another 1966 hit, “With a Girl Like You” is a feel-good, sing-along classic that captures the youthful exuberance of young love. The upbeat rhythm, catchy guitar riff, and playful lyrics make it one of The Troggs’ most accessible and widely loved tracks. The song reached No. 1 in the UK and was a huge success internationally. Its infectious chorus and simple, yet effective arrangement made it a radio staple, and it continues to charm new generations of listeners. “With a Girl Like You” is a perfect snapshot of the mid-’60s pop scene, brimming with joy and optimism.
4. “I Can’t Control Myself” (1966)
“I Can’t Control Myself” is one of The Troggs’ most daring and controversial songs, released in 1966. This track pushed boundaries with its suggestive lyrics and raw energy, causing a stir among more conservative audiences. The song features a pulsing beat, driving guitars, and Presley’s impassioned vocals, making it a standout in their catalog. The palpable sexual tension in the lyrics and delivery gave the song a rebellious edge, helping it land in the top 5 in the UK charts. Despite its initial controversy, “I Can’t Control Myself” has since been recognized as a proto-punk anthem, influencing future generations of rock bands.
5. “Night of the Long Grass” (1967)
“Night of the Long Grass,” released in 1967, showcases The Troggs’ ability to create mood and atmosphere in their music. This song has a darker, more mysterious vibe than their other hits, with a hypnotic guitar line and haunting lyrics. Presley’s deep, echoing vocals add to the song’s eerie quality, making it stand out from their more straightforward rock tracks. The song reached No. 17 in the UK charts, and its brooding, psychedelic tones have made it a favorite among fans who appreciate The Troggs’ more experimental side. “Night of the Long Grass” is a prime example of the band’s versatility and willingness to push sonic boundaries.
6. “Give It to Me” (1967)
Released in 1967, “Give It to Me” is a sultry, blues-infused track that showcases The Troggs’ ability to blend rock with a more laid-back groove. The song’s steady beat and Presley’s seductive vocals give it a slow-burn intensity that builds throughout the track. The prominent bassline and bluesy guitar licks set “Give It to Me” apart from their other, more uptempo hits. Though it wasn’t as commercially successful as some of their other singles, it remains a fan favorite for its cool, confident sound and its ability to get under the skin with its smoldering energy.
7. “Any Way That You Want Me” (1966)
“Any Way That You Want Me” is one of The Troggs’ softer, more romantic offerings, released in 1966. This song demonstrates the band’s versatility, with a lush arrangement and Presley’s tender vocal delivery. The dreamy melody and heartfelt lyrics about unconditional love make it a standout ballad in their catalog. While it didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as “Wild Thing” or “With a Girl Like You,” it has garnered a loyal fanbase over the years. Its gentle, yearning quality has made it a favorite among listeners looking for a more emotional side of The Troggs.
8. “Feels Like a Woman” (1972)
By 1972, The Troggs had evolved their sound, and “Feels Like a Woman” is a perfect example of their more mature, polished style. This track has a heavier, more blues-rock influenced sound, with gritty guitar riffs and Presley’s vocals taking on a deeper, more soulful tone. The song reflects the changing music landscape of the early 1970s, incorporating elements of hard rock while maintaining The Troggs’ signature edge. Though it didn’t make a huge impact on the charts, “Feels Like a Woman” is a powerful, underrated track that showcases the band’s ability to grow and adapt to new trends.
9. “Little Girl” (1968)
“Little Girl,” released in 1968, is a charming, catchy tune that blends The Troggs’ signature rock energy with a more polished, pop-oriented sound. The song features a bright, jangly guitar line and one of Presley’s most charismatic vocal performances. While it wasn’t a major commercial hit, it’s a fan favorite for its upbeat, breezy feel and infectious melody. “Little Girl” captures the carefree spirit of 1960s rock, making it a perfect example of The Troggs’ ability to deliver pop-rock gems that stand the test of time.
10. “Strange Movies” (1973)
“Strange Movies,” released in 1973, is one of The Troggs’ most unusual and provocative tracks. With its gritty, bluesy vibe and suggestive lyrics, the song pushes the band into more adult, risqué territory. Presley’s vocal delivery is raw and powerful, and the song’s driving bassline and distorted guitar riffs give it a heavy, almost psychedelic feel. Though not a huge commercial success, “Strange Movies” has been embraced by fans for its bold, experimental sound and its willingness to push the boundaries of what rock music could be. It’s a testament to The Troggs’ enduring creativity and influence.