The Troggs, one of the most iconic rock bands of the 1960s, left an indelible mark on music history with their raw, primal sound. Emerging from the British Invasion, the band is best known for their gritty, garage-rock anthems that helped shape the future of rock and punk alike. With a blend of infectious hooks, rebellious energy, and frontman Reg Presley’s unmistakable vocal style, The Troggs created some of the most unforgettable songs of their era.
But which tracks stand above the rest? In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular songs by The Troggs, a collection that spans their chart-topping hits and hidden gems alike. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering them for the first time, these songs are guaranteed to transport you back to the height of the 60s rock explosion. From the seductive groove of “Love Is All Around” to the untamed power of “Wild Thing,” these tracks not only defined a generation but continue to inspire musicians and fans to this day. Get ready to rediscover the raw, unfiltered energy of one of rock’s most influential bands as we count down their greatest hits!
1. “Wild Thing” (1966)
“Wild Thing” is undoubtedly The Troggs’ most iconic and enduring hit, a track that captured the raw energy of the 1960s in its simplest and most electrifying form. Released in 1966, it rocketed to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became an instant cultural landmark. Written by Chip Taylor, the song’s wild, untamed nature perfectly encapsulated the rebellious spirit of rock and roll. The driving guitar riff, stripped-down instrumentation, and Reg Presley’s gravelly, almost guttural vocals combine to create a sound that was as primal as it was infectious. The lyricism, though simple, carries an undeniable sense of desire and uninhibited passion, making “Wild Thing” a staple of garage rock. Its unpolished, rough edges give it a distinct authenticity, something that would come to define the genre in the years to follow. The Troggs’ delivery of the song brought out its carefree and impetuous vibe, tapping into a sense of youthful rebellion and freedom. Even after decades, “Wild Thing” continues to echo through pop culture, being featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials. It is a track that has transcended its era, a timeless anthem of reckless abandon and joy. What’s perhaps most striking about the song is its staying power—its simplicity, coupled with its explosive energy, makes it a defining moment in rock music. No other song in the ’60s quite captured the spirit of youthful, untamed rebellion like “Wild Thing,” and its influence can still be felt today as it remains a definitive anthem of the era.
2. “Love Is All Around” (1967)
Released in 1967, “Love Is All Around” takes The Troggs in a softer, more romantic direction, showcasing their ability to create timeless ballads that tug at the heartstrings. Unlike their more rambunctious hits, this track is full of lush orchestration and tender vulnerability. Written by lead singer Reg Presley, the song expresses a simple yet powerful message about the universality of love. The lyrics convey a sense of warmth and hope, offering a comforting sentiment that resonates with listeners of all ages. The Troggs’ harmonious vocals, accompanied by gentle instrumentation, elevate the song to a place of emotional depth, capturing the essence of love in a way that transcends time. The track’s success was immediate, reaching #5 on the UK Singles Chart and #7 in the US, and its heartfelt, optimistic message made it a global hit. “Love Is All Around” became a timeless anthem for the romantically inclined, and its resurgence in the 1990s, thanks to Wet Wet Wet’s popular cover for the Four Weddings and a Funeral soundtrack, only cemented its lasting impact. The cover, while fresh and contemporary, still honored the original’s sincerity, showing just how enduring The Troggs’ rendition was. The song’s gentle beauty is a reminder of love’s power to uplift and connect, and it remains one of The Troggs’ most beloved tracks. Whether you’re in the throes of young love or simply reflecting on the simple joys of affection, “Love Is All Around” continues to resonate, remaining a heartfelt ballad that transcends generations.
3. “With A Girl Like You” (1966)
Released in 1966, “With A Girl Like You” is a bright, infectious love song that captures the carefree spirit of the 1960s. This upbeat track, with its jangly guitar and catchy melody, became an instant hit in the UK, where it topped the charts. The song’s lyrics express the excitement and joy of being in love, with a simple but powerful message about the bliss of having someone special by your side. The Troggs’ playful delivery, paired with Reg Presley’s distinctive voice, lends the song a charming and youthful energy. It’s a far cry from the band’s wild, rebellious anthems like “Wild Thing,” offering a lighter and more romantic tone that resonated deeply with listeners. The track is a celebration of love’s simple pleasures, capturing that moment when everything feels right and the world seems brighter with a partner by your side. Its upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm make it an enduring classic of the 60s, and its catchy chorus continues to be a crowd favorite at parties and gatherings. Though it contrasts with the band’s more aggressive hits, “With A Girl Like You” remains one of The Troggs’ most recognizable songs. Its easygoing charm and warm sentiments ensure it holds a special place in the hearts of fans. The song perfectly encapsulates the optimistic and playful side of love, with its simple, straightforward lyrics and carefree melody. Decades after its release, “With A Girl Like You” remains a delightful reminder of the joy that love brings.
4. “I Can’t Control Myself” (1966)
“I Can’t Control Myself” is one of The Troggs’ most daring and provocative songs, pushing the boundaries of rock music with its bold lyrics and raw energy. Released in 1966, the song’s explicit themes of desire and uncontrolled passion made it a controversial hit at the time. The Troggs were never ones to shy away from bold, unapologetic expression, and this track epitomizes that ethos. With its pounding rhythm, aggressive guitar, and Reg Presley’s intense vocal delivery, “I Can’t Control Myself” exudes a sense of urgency and yearning that perfectly captures the wild and rebellious spirit of the ’60s rock scene. The lyrics speak to the feeling of being overwhelmed by desire, an emotion that was rarely expressed so openly in popular music at the time. Despite—or perhaps because of—its suggestive nature, the song became a favorite among fans, reaching #2 on the UK charts and cementing The Troggs’ reputation as one of rock’s most provocative bands. The track’s edgy energy and passionate delivery were a departure from the softer, more romantic tunes of the era, and its rebellious spirit made it a defining moment in the evolution of garage rock. Today, “I Can’t Control Myself” remains a standout in The Troggs’ catalog, praised for its boldness and unrelenting energy. The song’s raucous, impetuous vibe captures the intensity of youthful desire, making it one of the band’s most enduring and iconic tracks.
5. “Any Way That You Want Me” (1966)
Released in late 1966, “Any Way That You Want Me” stands out as one of The Troggs’ more soulful and introspective tracks. Unlike their more straightforward rock hits, this ballad reveals a deeper, more emotional side of the band, showcasing their versatility as musicians. The song is slow and sweeping, with a haunting melody that complements the yearning tone of the lyrics. The track’s vulnerability is evident in Reg Presley’s passionate vocal performance, which conveys a sense of longing and desire. The lyrics speak to the complexity of love and the willingness to surrender to it, no matter the cost. While not as commercially successful as some of their other hits, “Any Way That You Want Me” has become a cult favorite, beloved by fans for its emotional depth and timeless quality. The song’s gentle arrangement, featuring soft guitar strumming and a subtle rhythm section, gives it a dreamy, atmospheric feel that sets it apart from the band’s typical high-energy rock sound. It’s a track that invites introspection and captures a moment of vulnerability, making it a hidden gem in The Troggs’ discography. Over time, “Any Way That You Want Me” has gained recognition as one of the band’s most underappreciated songs, appreciated for its delicate beauty and emotional resonance. It remains a perfect example of The Troggs’ ability to balance their hard-hitting rock sensibilities with a softer, more reflective side, showing that their musical range went far beyond the garage rock anthems they’re best known for.
6. “Night of the Long Grass” (1967)
“Night of the Long Grass,” released in 1967, is a striking departure from The Troggs’ earlier, more straightforward rock hits. With this track, the band delves into the realm of psychedelic rock, creating a moody and atmospheric piece that stands out in their discography. The song features a haunting melody, eerie guitar riffs, and a rhythm that draws listeners into its mysterious world. The lyrics are somewhat cryptic, evoking a sense of nocturnal intrigue and perhaps even danger, with a subtle, hypnotic tone that contrasts sharply with their more raucous songs. The band’s experimental side shines through as they explore a darker, more introspective theme in this track. “Night of the Long Grass” isn’t just another rock song; it’s a journey into an unsettling landscape, where the music creates tension, and the lyrics suggest an ominous undertone. It might not have enjoyed the chart-topping success of “Wild Thing” or “With A Girl Like You,” but it reached #17 on the UK charts, proving that fans appreciated the band’s attempt to push the boundaries of their sound. The song’s experimental nature was a signal of the changing times in rock music, as artists were increasingly seeking new ways to innovate and explore different sonic textures. “Night of the Long Grass” is now recognized as one of The Troggs’ most intriguing tracks, with its deep, hypnotic groove and its ability to captivate listeners with its atmospheric energy. The track continues to resonate with fans who appreciate The Troggs’ willingness to explore new musical territories, proving that the band’s creativity extended far beyond their early garage rock roots.
7. “Give It To Me” (1967)
“Give It To Me,” another track from 1967, is an energetic and bold declaration of desire, capturing The Troggs’ signature unapologetic style. Much like “I Can’t Control Myself,” this track embraces raw, unfiltered emotion, with lyrics that are suggestive and charged with a sensual intensity. The song’s powerful rhythm and pounding beat reflect the raw passion behind the lyrics, as Reg Presley delivers his lines with fervor and urgency. The pulsating rhythm section and dynamic guitars keep the energy high throughout, adding to the song’s almost primal sense of urgency. The lyrics, which express a yearning for love and physical connection, reflect the band’s rebellious spirit and willingness to challenge social norms through music. While it didn’t achieve the chart success of some of their other hits, “Give It To Me” became a favorite among fans for its boldness and visceral appeal. The song’s mix of sensuality, passion, and energy captures the essence of rock and roll in the late ’60s, a time when music was becoming increasingly provocative and experimental. It’s a track that exemplifies The Troggs’ ability to blend catchy melodies with raw emotional depth, making it a standout in their catalog. Though it didn’t receive the same mainstream recognition as other songs, “Give It To Me” remains a cherished gem for fans who appreciate its untamed energy and its unrelenting drive. With its irresistible rhythm and compelling passion, “Give It To Me” is a song that continues to command attention even decades after its release.
8. “You Can Cry If You Want To” (1968)
“You Can Cry If You Want To,” released in 1968, is a poignant, introspective ballad that shows a different side of The Troggs. Known for their wild, rebellious image, the band delivers a softer, more reflective tone with this track, revealing a vulnerability not often seen in their previous hits. The song features a slower tempo and restrained instrumentation, allowing the emotional weight of the lyrics to take center stage. Reg Presley’s vocal performance here is more subdued, offering a tender and heartfelt delivery that perfectly complements the somber mood of the song. The lyrics speak to a broken heart, offering the listener permission to grieve and embrace their sorrow. While it didn’t enjoy the same level of commercial success as some of their other hits, “You Can Cry If You Want To” has become a beloved deep cut for fans who appreciate the band’s more sensitive and contemplative side. The song’s emotional depth is amplified by its gentle arrangement, which creates a sense of space for the listener to reflect. It’s a stark contrast to the band’s earlier raucous hits, showcasing their versatility as musicians and their ability to craft songs that move beyond the typical rock and roll formula. “You Can Cry If You Want To” might not be as widely recognized as some of their other work, but it remains a standout track for those who value its emotional honesty and vulnerability. It’s a reminder that The Troggs were more than just a garage rock band—they could also deliver powerful, heart-wrenching ballads that spoke to the human condition.
9. “Strange Movies” (1973)
Released in 1973, “Strange Movies” marked a distinct shift in The Troggs’ musical style, reflecting the changing landscape of rock music as the ’70s unfolded. The song is raw, edgy, and experimental, embracing a more modern rock sound that differed from the band’s earlier garage rock anthems. With its gritty guitar riffs, hard-hitting rhythm section, and thought-provoking lyrics, “Strange Movies” introduces a darker, more introspective side of The Troggs. The track’s lyrics explore themes of disillusionment, reflecting the mood of the era and the band’s evolving musical sensibilities. The Troggs were no longer just the playful, carefree rockers of the ’60s—they were now experimenting with new sounds and more complex, introspective themes. “Strange Movies” may not have been a major chart hit, but it remains an important track in their later catalog, showcasing their willingness to evolve and embrace new trends in rock music. The song’s edginess and bold lyrical content set it apart from the simpler, more straightforward songs of the band’s early years. Though it wasn’t a commercial success, “Strange Movies” earned respect among fans for its raw energy and thought-provoking lyrics. It’s a track that has gained a cult following over the years, admired for its experimental nature and its departure from the band’s traditional sound. In hindsight, “Strange Movies” represents an important moment in The Troggs’ career, demonstrating their ability to adapt and grow as artists while staying true to their roots.
10. “Feels Like A Woman” (1972)
Released in 1972, “Feels Like A Woman” represents The Troggs’ attempt to adapt to the changing rock scene of the early ’70s while still maintaining their distinctive, hard-rocking style. With its bluesy guitar riff, swaggering rhythm, and bold vocals, the song embodies a raw, untamed energy that harkens back to their earlier hits like “Wild Thing.” However, the track also pushes the boundaries, incorporating more sophisticated instrumentation and a harder rock edge. “Feels Like A Woman” is a song that exudes confidence and power, with lyrics that express both desire and admiration. While it didn’t achieve significant commercial success, the song remains a testament to The Troggs’ ability to experiment and evolve with the times. The track is infused with a sense of freedom and boldness that defines much of their music, making it a powerful anthem for fans who appreciate the band’s rebellious spirit. “Feels Like A Woman” may not have made as big a commercial impact as some of their earlier work, but it remains a standout track in their later years, demonstrating their willingness to push the boundaries of rock and roll. The song’s bluesy, hard-edged sound was a clear reflection of the evolving rock scene of the ’70s, and it serves as a testament to The Troggs’ enduring influence and adaptability within the genre. While it may not have charted as highly as their ’60s hits, “Feels Like A Woman” continues to resonate with fans who appreciate its raw energy and defiant attitude.
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.
