The Troggs were a British rock band formed in 1964, known for their raw, energetic sound that helped shape the early rock and garage rock scenes. The original lineup included Reg Presley (lead vocals), Chris Britton (guitar), Pete Staples (bass), and Ronnie Bond (drums).
The Troggs gained prominence with their hit single “Wild Thing” in 1966, a song that became an anthem of the 1960s rock era. Written by Chip Taylor, “Wild Thing” is celebrated for its straightforward, infectious riff and Presley’s distinctive vocal delivery. The song topped the charts in both the UK and the US and is considered a classic of the garage rock genre.
Following “Wild Thing,” the Troggs continued to release successful singles, including “With a Girl Like You” and “Love Is All Around,” the latter of which became especially famous when covered by Wet Wet Wet for the soundtrack of the film “Four Weddings and a Funeral” in 1994.
The Troggs’ music is characterized by its energetic, raw style and catchy hooks, and their influence can be seen in the work of later rock and punk bands. Despite several lineup changes over the years, the band’s legacy endures, particularly through their iconic hits from the 1960s.
1. Wild Thing
“Wild Thing” is a seminal rock song by The Troggs, released in 1966. Written by Chip Taylor, the song features a simple yet infectious riff and straightforward lyrics that helped define the garage rock genre.
The Troggs’ version, with Reg Presley’s distinctive vocals and the song’s raw energy, became a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and number two on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s success was bolstered by its memorable, driving beat and its appeal to the youthful rock audience of the 1960s.
“Wild Thing” has been covered by numerous artists, including Jimi Hendrix, who famously performed it at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967. The song remains a classic of rock music, celebrated for its simplicity and enduring impact on the genre.
2. Love Is All Around
“Love Is All Around” by The Troggs is a classic pop-rock song released in 1967. Written by lead vocalist Reg Presley, the song features a catchy melody and simple, heartfelt lyrics that convey a message of love and its omnipresence. The Troggs’ rendition is characterized by its gentle acoustic guitar strumming and melodic harmonies, creating a warm and uplifting sound. “Love Is All Around” became a major hit, reaching the top 10 in both the UK and US charts. The song has since been covered by numerous artists and remains a timeless anthem celebrating the universal nature of love.
3. With a Girl Like You
“With a Girl Like You” by The Troggs is a lively pop-rock song released in 1967. Written by lead vocalist Reg Presley, the track features upbeat rhythms and catchy lyrics celebrating the joy of being with someone special. The song’s infectious melody and energetic arrangement are driven by the Troggs’ signature sound, including catchy guitar riffs and rhythmic drumming. “With a Girl Like You” became a major hit, reaching the top 10 on the UK charts and gaining popularity in the US. Its upbeat vibe and simple, yet effective lyrics have made it a classic of the 1960s rock era.
4. I Can’t Control Myself
“I Can’t Control Myself” is a notable song by The Troggs, released in 1966. Written by Reg Presley, the track showcases the band’s signature raw, energetic style with its driving rhythm and straightforward, rebellious lyrics.
The song’s themes revolve around uncontrolled desire and passion, delivered with a sense of urgency that captures the essence of the garage rock era. The Troggs’ performance is characterized by Reg Presley’s distinctive vocal delivery and the song’s catchy, primal energy.
Though it didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as “Wild Thing,” “I Can’t Control Myself” is remembered for its influence on the rock genre and its embodiment of the youthful exuberance and rebellion that defined much of the 1960s rock scene.
5. Anyway That You Want Me
“Any Way That You Want Me” by The Troggs is a soulful pop-rock song released in 1966. Written by Chip Taylor, the track features a blend of catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics about unconditional love and devotion. The song showcases The Troggs’ distinctive sound, with Reg Presley’s expressive vocals and the band’s engaging instrumentation. Its honest and straightforward lyrics, coupled with a memorable chorus, made it a hit, reaching the top 10 on the UK charts. The song has remained a beloved classic, appreciated for its earnest expression of love and its timeless musical charm.
6. Give It to Me
“Give It to Me” is a song by The Troggs, released in 1968. Written by Reg Presley, the track reflects the band’s characteristic raw, rock sound with a straightforward and catchy melody. The song features Reg Presley’s distinctive vocals and a driving rhythm that aligns with the band’s energetic style.
“Give It to Me” was part of the band’s ongoing efforts to capture the zeitgeist of the late 1960s rock scene. Although it didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as some of their earlier hits, it remains a notable entry in The Troggs’ discography, showcasing their ability to craft memorable rock songs with a compelling edge.
7. Night of the Long Grass
“Night of the Long Grass” by The Troggs is a track from their 1967 album of the same name. Written by Reg Presley, the song features the band’s signature rock sound with catchy melodies and a driving rhythm. The lyrics evoke imagery of a nostalgic summer night, capturing a sense of youthful freedom and romance. The Troggs’ characteristic blend of raw guitar riffs and infectious beats is present, giving the track an energetic and memorable feel. Though not as widely known as some of their other hits, “Night of the Long Grass” remains a cherished example of The Troggs’ distinctive style.
8. Hi Hi Hazel
“Hi Hi Hazel” is a song by The Troggs, released in 1968 as a single. Written by Reg Presley, the track continues the band’s characteristic style with its energetic rock sound and catchy melody. The song is a good example of the Troggs’ ability to blend straightforward rock with engaging, sometimes playful lyrics.
Although not as commercially successful as some of their bigger hits like “Wild Thing” or “With a Girl Like You,” “Hi Hi Hazel” reflects the band’s ongoing appeal in the late 1960s and their consistent approach to delivering memorable rock songs with a distinctive edge.
9. Evil Woman
“Evil Woman” by Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) is a hit single from their 1975 album *Face the Music*. Written by Jeff Lynne, the song is characterized by its catchy melody, orchestral arrangements, and distinctive string section. The lyrics tell a story of heartbreak and betrayal, addressing a former lover who is described as “evil” due to the pain she caused. “Evil Woman” became one of ELO’s signature hits, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying the band’s reputation for blending rock with orchestral elements. The song remains a classic example of ELO’s innovative sound.
10. Little Girl
“Little Girl” is a song by The Troggs, released in 1967. Written by Reg Presley, the track features the band’s trademark raw, rock sound with straightforward lyrics and a catchy melody. The song, like many of The Troggs’ hits, showcases their energetic style and distinctive vocal delivery.
“Little Girl” wasn’t as commercially successful as some of their more famous hits, such as “Wild Thing” or “With a Girl Like You,” but it remains a part of their notable catalog. The track reflects the band’s consistent ability to produce memorable, engaging rock songs during their peak years in the 1960s.