The Troggs were an English rock band formed in the 1960s. They are best known for their hit songs “Wild Thing” and “Love Is All Around.”
The Troggs gained fame during the mid-1960s British Invasion with their raw and energetic rock sound. “Wild Thing,” released in 1966, became their most famous song, reaching the top of the charts in both the UK and the US. The song’s simple but catchy melody, along with its suggestive lyrics, made it an instant classic and a staple of rock music.
Another notable hit by The Troggs is “Love Is All Around,” released in 1967. While not as commercially successful as “Wild Thing,” the song became popular and has been covered by various artists over the years, including Wet Wet Wet, whose cover topped the charts in the UK in 1994.
Throughout their career, The Troggs continued to release music and tour, although they never quite replicated the success of their early hits. Despite this, their influence on rock music remains significant, and their songs continue to be celebrated for their raw energy and catchy hooks.
1. Wild Thing
“Wild Thing” is a classic rock song originally recorded by the American band The Wild Ones in 1965. However, the most famous version of the song was recorded by The Troggs, an English rock band, later that same year.
Written by Chip Taylor, “Wild Thing” is known for its simple but catchy melody and suggestive lyrics. The song’s repetitive structure and raw energy made it an instant hit and a staple of rock music. The Troggs’ rendition of “Wild Thing” reached the top of the charts in both the UK and the US, solidifying its status as one of the most iconic rock songs of the 1960s.
“Wild Thing” has since been covered by numerous artists from various genres, including Jimi Hendrix, The Runaways, and X, among others. Each rendition brings a unique interpretation to the song, showcasing its enduring appeal and influence on popular music.
“Wild Thing” remains a beloved classic and is often included in lists of the greatest rock songs of all time. Its simple but infectious melody and rebellious spirit continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless anthem of rock and roll.
2. Love Is All Around
“Love Is All Around” is a song originally recorded by The Troggs in 1967. Written by Reg Presley, the lead singer of The Troggs, “Love Is All Around” is a soulful and romantic ballad that became one of the band’s signature songs.
The Troggs’ version of “Love Is All Around” gained popularity and became a hit, reaching the top ten on the charts in both the UK and the US. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and catchy melody struck a chord with audiences, making it a beloved classic.
In 1994, “Love Is All Around” gained renewed popularity when it was covered by the Scottish band Wet Wet Wet for the soundtrack of the film “Four Weddings and a Funeral.” Wet Wet Wet’s version of the song became a massive hit, topping the charts in multiple countries, including the UK, where it remained at number one for 15 consecutive weeks, setting a new record at the time.
Both The Troggs’ original version and Wet Wet Wet’s cover of “Love Is All Around” remain beloved classics and are often associated with romantic sentiment and weddings. The song’s enduring popularity and universal message of love have made it a timeless anthem.
3. With a Girl Like You
“With a Girl Like You” is a song by the British rock band The Troggs. It was released in 1966 as a single and later included on their album “Wild Thing.”
The song is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and simple yet infectious rhythm. Its lyrics express the joy and excitement of being in love with a special girl, with the narrator proclaiming his happiness and gratitude for having found someone so wonderful.
“With a Girl Like You” became one of The Troggs’ biggest hits, reaching high positions on the charts in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. Its irresistible melody and timeless appeal have made it a favorite among fans of 1960s rock music, and it remains a classic of the era.
4. I Can’t Control Myself
“I Can’t Control Myself” is a song by The Troggs, released in 1966. It was written by Reg Presley, the lead singer of the band.
“I Can’t Control Myself” is characterized by its catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and suggestive lyrics. The song’s raw energy and driving beat were typical of The Troggs’ style, contributing to their reputation as one of the pioneering bands of the garage rock and proto-punk genres.
The song became a hit for The Troggs, reaching the top 10 on the charts in both the UK and the US. Its infectious rhythm and memorable hook made it a favorite among fans of rock music, and it remains one of The Troggs’ most popular and enduring songs.
“I Can’t Control Myself” has been covered by various artists over the years, further cementing its status as a classic in the realm of rock and roll. Its rebellious spirit and catchy vibe continue to captivate listeners and make it a staple of rock music playlists.
5. Anyway That You Want Me
“Anyway That You Want Me” is a song originally written by Chip Taylor and recorded by the American band The Troggs in 1966. The song was later covered by various artists, including The Zombies and Spiritualized.
The Troggs’ version of “Anyway That You Want Me” is characterized by its raw energy and driving rhythm, typical of the band’s garage rock sound. The song’s lyrics express devotion and willingness to do whatever it takes to please the object of affection.
While The Troggs’ rendition of “Anyway That You Want Me” did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of their other hits, it remains a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s influence on the rock music scene of the 1960s.
Over the years, “Anyway That You Want Me” has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their own interpretation to the song. Its catchy melody and universal theme of love and devotion have ensured its enduring popularity and status as a classic in the realm of rock music.
6. Give It to Me
“Give It to Me” is a song by American singer-songwriter Timbaland, featuring vocals from Nelly Furtado and Justin Timberlake. It was released in 2007 as the second single from Timbaland’s second studio album, “Shock Value.”
The song is characterized by its catchy beat, hip-hop influences, and energetic vocals. Its lyrics revolve around themes of desire and seduction, with the narrators expressing their confidence and determination to get what they want.
“Give It to Me” was a commercial success, reaching high positions on the charts in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It received positive reviews from critics, who praised its production and the chemistry between Timbaland, Furtado, and Timberlake.
The song’s memorable hook and infectious rhythm made it a favorite on dance floors and radio airwaves, and it remains a popular hit from the late 2000s era of pop and hip-hop music.
7. Night of the Long Grass
“Night of the Long Grass” is a song by The Troggs, a British rock band known for their hits in the 1960s such as “Wild Thing” and “With a Girl Like You.” “Night of the Long Grass” was released in 1967 as a single and later included on their album “Trogglodynamite.”
The song features a psychedelic rock sound typical of the late 1960s, with its swirling guitars and dreamy atmosphere. The lyrics evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue, with references to wandering through long grass and encountering strange sights and sounds.
While “Night of the Long Grass” was not as commercially successful as some of The Troggs’ earlier hits, it remains a favorite among fans of 1960s psychedelic rock. The song’s ethereal quality and experimental approach showcase the band’s versatility and willingness to explore new musical directions.
8. Hi Hi Hazel
“Hi Hi Hazel” is a song by The Troggs, released in 1967. It was written by Reg Presley, the lead singer of the band.
“Hi Hi Hazel” is a catchy and upbeat rock song characterized by its energetic rhythm and catchy melody. The song’s lyrics express admiration for a girl named Hazel and describe her as someone who stands out from the crowd.
While “Hi Hi Hazel” did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of The Troggs’ other hits, it remains a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s ability to create catchy and infectious rock tunes.
The song’s upbeat vibe and catchy chorus make it a fun addition to The Troggs’ discography and a favorite among fans of 1960s rock music.
9. Evil Woman
“Evil Woman” is a song by the British rock band Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), released in 1975 on their album “Face the Music.” Written by lead vocalist Jeff Lynne, “Evil Woman” is one of ELO’s most well-known and enduring songs.
“Evil Woman” features a catchy melody, a driving beat, and a distinctive guitar riff. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man warning another about the dangers of falling for an “evil woman” who will break his heart and leave him feeling lonely and betrayed.
The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious chorus made it a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. “Evil Woman” became one of ELO’s signature songs and remains a staple of classic rock radio.
With its blend of rock and pop sensibilities, “Evil Woman” exemplifies ELO’s unique sound and contributed to their reputation as one of the most innovative and successful bands of the 1970s.
10. Little Girl
“Little Girl” is a song by The Syndicate of Sound, an American garage rock band from San Jose, California. It was released in 1966 as a single and later included on their album “Little Girl.”
The song is characterized by its catchy guitar riff and energetic vocals. Its lyrics tell the story of a young man who is infatuated with a girl who is “little,” both in age and stature. Despite her youth, the narrator expresses his desire to be with her and declares his love for her.
“Little Girl” became one of The Syndicate of Sound’s biggest hits, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its memorable melody and infectious rhythm made it a favorite among fans of 1960s garage rock, and it remains a classic of the genre.
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.
