The Troggs, a British rock band formed in the 1960s, are an iconic force in the history of rock and roll. Hailing from Andover, Hampshire, the band achieved global fame with their raw, primal sound and rebellious attitude. Their breakthrough hit, “Wild Thing,” released in 1966, remains one of the most recognizable and enduring anthems of the era.
The Troggs distinguished themselves with a garage rock style that was uncomplicated yet potent, marked by frontman Reg Presley’s distinctive raspy vocals. Their music was characterized by a blend of R&B, rock, and a touch of proto-punk, influencing countless bands that followed. The band’s charismatic and energetic performances on stage further solidified their reputation as a must-see act.
Despite facing challenges in the ever-changing music industry, The Troggs left an indelible mark on rock music. Beyond “Wild Thing,” their discography includes hits like “Love Is All Around” and “With a Girl Like You.” The Troggs’ impact extends beyond their chart success, as their raw, unfiltered approach laid the groundwork for the punk rock movement that would emerge in the following decades. With a legacy that continues to resonate, The Troggs are celebrated as pioneers who brought a rebellious spirit to the mainstream, leaving an enduring imprint on the evolution of rock and roll.
1. Wild Thing
“Wild Thing” is a classic rock song by The Troggs, released in 1966. Written by Chip Taylor, the song is known for its simple, catchy, and primal nature. It quickly became one of the iconic anthems of the mid-1960s garage rock and proto-punk era.
The lyrics of “Wild Thing” express a straightforward declaration of romantic attraction and desire. The repetitive and raw nature of the song, coupled with the memorable guitar riff, contributed to its immediate popularity.
The Troggs’ version of “Wild Thing” features a distinctive guitar solo and the famous use of feedback in the recording. The lead singer, Reg Presley, delivers the lyrics with a raspy and energetic style, adding to the rebellious and carefree vibe of the song.
“Wild Thing” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, and its influence extends beyond its initial release, with numerous artists covering the song over the years. It remains a timeless and quintessential track in the history of rock and roll.
2. Love Is All Around
“Love Is All Around” is a timeless ballad by The Troggs that showcases a softer, more romantic side of the band’s musical repertoire. Released in 1967, the song became one of their most enduring hits, capturing the essence of the late 1960s with its dreamy, love-infused lyrics and melodic simplicity.
Written by the band’s lead vocalist, Reg Presley, “Love Is All Around” is a departure from The Troggs’ more raucous and energetic tracks. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar, tender vocals, and heartfelt lyrics convey a sentiment of love and optimism. The chorus, with its repetitive declaration that “Love is all around me, and so the feeling grows,” became an anthem for romantics and remains a classic expression of love in popular music.
The song’s enduring popularity was further solidified when it was covered by the Scottish band Wet Wet Wet in 1994 for the soundtrack of the film “Four Weddings and a Funeral.” The cover topped the charts for an impressive 15 weeks in the UK, reintroducing “Love Is All Around” to a new generation and cementing its status as a timeless love song. The Troggs’ original version, however, remains a poignant and beautiful testament to the band’s versatility and enduring influence on the landscape of rock and pop music.
3. With a Girl Like You
“With a Girl Like You” is a song by The Troggs, released in 1966 as a follow-up to their hit “Wild Thing.” Written by Reg Presley, the lead singer of the band, the song is a melodic and upbeat track that showcases a lighter side of The Troggs’ sound.
The lyrics of “With a Girl Like You” express the joy and happiness of being in love with a special someone. The song’s tone is more romantic and less edgy compared to “Wild Thing,” featuring catchy and infectious melodies.
The Troggs’ simple yet effective musical arrangement, characterized by a prominent and jangly guitar riff, contributed to the song’s success. “With a Girl Like You” achieved commercial acclaim, reaching the Top 10 in various music charts.
While “Wild Thing” remains The Troggs’ most well-known song, “With a Girl Like You” remains a charming and enduring example of their ability to capture the spirit of the mid-1960s British Invasion sound.
4. I Can’t Control Myself
“I Can’t Control Myself” is a spirited rock anthem by The Troggs that encapsulates the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the 1960s. Released in 1966, the song is a prime example of the band’s signature garage rock sound, characterized by its simple yet infectious melodies and the distinctive gritty vocals of lead singer Reg Presley.
The track opens with a distinctive riff, and from the first chords, it sets a high-energy tone. Lyrically, “I Can’t Control Myself” reflects the youthful exuberance and the tumultuous emotions of love and desire. The chorus, where Presley passionately declares, “Your slacks are low and your hips are showing,” adds a playful and risqué element to the song, contributing to its rebellious charm.
The Troggs’ dynamic performance style, combined with the primal energy of “I Can’t Control Myself,” made the song an instant hit. It’s a quintessential example of the garage rock movement that emerged in the mid-1960s, influencing subsequent generations of musicians. With its catchy hooks and unbridled enthusiasm, “I Can’t Control Myself” remains a classic in The Troggs’ repertoire, celebrated for its role in shaping the landscape of rock music during a transformative era in musical history.
5. Any Way That You Want Me
“Any Way That You Want Me” is a classic song by The Troggs that exemplifies the band’s ability to blend rock with a touch of vulnerability. Originally released in 1966, the song features the distinctive vocals of lead singer Reg Presley and showcases the band’s versatility in exploring different musical styles.
The track is characterized by its melodic guitar lines and a more measured tempo compared to some of The Troggs’ other hits. “Any Way That You Want Me” reflects a softer, more introspective side of the band, both in terms of musical arrangement and lyrical content. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and willingness to adapt to the desires of a loved one, adding a romantic dimension to The Troggs’ repertoire.
The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its influence on subsequent artists and its numerous cover versions by different musicians over the years. Notably, the song was covered by artists like The American Breed and the singer and songwriter Melanie Safka, further attesting to the timeless quality of The Troggs’ original composition.
“Any Way That You Want Me” stands as a testament to The Troggs’ ability to navigate various musical expressions, showcasing their range beyond the more energetic and rebellious tracks for which they are often celebrated. It remains a captivating piece of the band’s catalog, appreciated for its emotional depth and musical craftsmanship.
6. I Want You
“I Want You” is a song by Bob Dylan, featured on his 1966 album “Blonde on Blonde.” The song is notable for its extended length and its complex, enigmatic lyrics. “Blonde on Blonde” is often considered one of the greatest albums in the history of rock music, and “I Want You” is a standout track on the record.
The lyrics of “I Want You” convey a mix of desire and ambiguity, typical of Bob Dylan’s style during this period. The repeated refrain “I want you” is central to the song, and the verses are filled with surreal and vivid imagery.
The musical arrangement of “I Want You” features a lively and upbeat sound, with prominent acoustic and electric guitar work. The song has been interpreted in various ways, with listeners and critics finding different meanings in its poetic and sometimes cryptic lyrics.
“I Want You” is recognized for its significance in the evolution of Dylan’s songwriting and its impact on the broader landscape of rock music in the 1960s.
7. Night of the Long Grass
“Night of the Long Grass” is a distinctive and atmospheric track by The Troggs, released in 1967. This song stands out for its psychedelic influences, showcasing the band’s ability to experiment with different sounds during a period when psychedelic rock was gaining popularity.
The title itself evokes a sense of mystery and intrigue, setting the stage for a musical journey. The song features lush instrumentation, with swirling organ riffs and a dreamy, hypnotic quality. The lyrics contribute to the psychedelic ambiance, featuring abstract and poetic phrases that align with the unconventional nature of the genre.
“Night of the Long Grass” demonstrates The Troggs’ willingness to explore beyond their garage rock roots, incorporating elements of psychedelia into their repertoire. The track’s intricate musical arrangements and moody atmosphere set it apart from some of their more straightforward rock hits, showcasing the band’s versatility and adaptability to the evolving landscape of 1960s rock music.
While not as commercially successful as some of their more well-known songs, “Night of the Long Grass” remains a fascinating piece in The Troggs’ catalog, representing a transitional period in their musical evolution and contributing to the broader tapestry of psychedelic rock during that era.
8. Give It to Me
The Troggs’ ‘Give It to Me’ is a timeless classic that displays their raw and energetic sound. With its catchy guitar riffs and powerful vocals, it grabs your attention right away. Plus, the intense rhythm and pulsating beat make it hard not to tap your feet or nod along. The rebellious lyrics explore themes of desire and longing, making it relatable to listeners of all ages. Since its release in 1967, ‘Give It to Me’ has remained a fan favorite, proving its lasting impact on rock music.
An interesting anecdote surrounds the creation of this song. It is said that during a recording session, The Troggs were interrupted by a group of excited fans. This inspired them to make ‘Give It to Me’, resulting in a track that captures both their talent and connection with their audience.
All in all, ‘Give It to Me’ demonstrates The Troggs’ artistry and ability to create memorable rock anthems. Its timeless appeal continues to enchant listeners with its electrifying sound and captivating lyrics.
9. From Home
The ninth track of The Troggs’ repertoire, “From Home,” is a captivating blend of raw energy and melodic harmonies. Its details include:
Album: Wild Thing (1966)
Duration: 2:19
Genre: Rock
Released: April 1966
Label: Fontana
This song explores themes of longing and desire while keeping an upbeat tempo. Guitar riffs and passionate vocals bring life to the lyrics.
Interesting backstory: Lead vocalist Reg Presley was inspired by long-distance relationships and the feeling of missing someone while away from home. This personal connection resonates with listeners, adding to its enigmatic appeal.
A testament to The Troggs’ exceptional talent, “From Home” has made a lasting impact on music history. Its original title was ‘Yip Yip Hooray,’ suggesting a more exuberant song than what was eventually released.
10. Hip Hip Hooray
“Hip Hip Hooray,” a hit Troggs song from 1967’s ‘Cellophane’ album.
Genre: Garage rock.
Key: G major.
Length: 2:05.
This classic track is still beloved for its catchy melodies and high-octane energy.
It’s a testament to The Troggs’ influence on rock music.
Rolling Stone magazine ranks The Troggs among the groundbreaking British Invasion bands of the 1960s.
Alongside The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.