The Troggs, known as one of the pioneers of the British Invasion, have left an indelible mark on the history of rock and roll. Their raw, primal sound and infectious energy helped to shape the music of the 1960s and beyond, earning them a place in the hearts of fans worldwide. With a career spanning several decades, The Troggs delivered a string of unforgettable hits that continue to resonate with audiences today. From raucous garage rock anthems to tender ballads, their music captures the spirit of an era while remaining timeless.
In this article, we dive into the Top 10 most popular songs by The Troggs, each one a testament to their influence and enduring appeal. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to their music, these tracks are sure to take you on a nostalgic journey through the golden age of rock. Get ready to rediscover the songs that made The Troggs legends, from the gritty riffs of “Wild Thing” to the haunting beauty of “Love Is All Around.” Let’s turn up the volume and celebrate the best of The Troggs!
1. Wild Thing (1966)
Arguably the most iconic song in The Troggs’ catalog, “Wild Thing” exploded onto the scene in 1966, instantly becoming a worldwide rock anthem. With its simple yet infectious riff and raw, primal energy, “Wild Thing” encapsulates the rebellious spirit of the 1960s. The song’s gritty, garage-rock sound combined with Reg Presley’s raspy vocals created an unforgettable experience that resonated with listeners everywhere. It was a track that demanded attention, and it got it—reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and becoming a staple of rock music. Even decades later, “Wild Thing” continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
2. Love Is All Around (1967)
“Love Is All Around” stands as one of The Troggs’ most enduring songs, showcasing a softer, more melodic side of the band. Released in 1967, this heartfelt ballad features a gentle, lilting melody that perfectly complements the tender lyrics about love’s omnipresence. The song’s string arrangement adds a layer of sophistication, making it a favorite for romantic occasions. Though it only reached No. 7 on the UK Singles Chart at the time, “Love Is All Around” found renewed popularity in the 1990s when it was covered by Wet Wet Wet for the film Four Weddings and a Funeral. The Troggs’ original version remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its emotional depth and simplicity.
3. With A Girl Like You (1966)
Released in 1966, “With A Girl Like You” quickly became a hit, reaching No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart and solidifying The Troggs’ place in the pantheon of British rock. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and relatable lyrics about youthful romance made it an instant classic. Reg Presley’s playful yet sincere vocal delivery is perfectly matched by the jangly guitar chords, creating a feel-good song that captured the essence of 1960s pop-rock. “With A Girl Like You” remains a fan favorite, frequently appearing on compilations of the era’s greatest hits and reminding listeners of the joys of young love.
4. I Can’t Control Myself (1966)
“I Can’t Control Myself” is another gem from The Troggs’ impressive 1966 output. This track is often cited as one of the band’s most controversial due to its suggestive lyrics and raw energy. The song’s driving beat and intense vocal performance by Reg Presley convey a sense of urgency and desperation that is both captivating and slightly rebellious. It reached No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart, proving that The Troggs were not afraid to push boundaries. “I Can’t Control Myself” is a powerful example of the band’s ability to blend catchy pop sensibilities with the edgier side of rock, making it a standout in their catalog.
5. Anyway That You Want Me (1966)
“Anyway That You Want Me,” released in late 1966, showcases The Troggs’ versatility as they venture into a more soulful, almost psychedelic sound. The song’s dreamy atmosphere is created by a lush arrangement and Presley’s yearning vocals, which express a willingness to do anything for love. Although it didn’t achieve the same commercial success as some of their other hits, “Anyway That You Want Me” remains a beloved track among fans and is often praised for its emotional depth and intricate production. The song highlights The Troggs’ ability to evolve their sound while staying true to the core elements that made them successful.
6. Night of the Long Grass (1967)
“Night of the Long Grass,” released in 1967, is a hauntingly beautiful track that delves into darker, more mysterious territory. The song’s brooding atmosphere is enhanced by its lush instrumentation and Presley’s evocative vocals, which tell a tale of love and longing under the cover of night. The track reached No. 17 on the UK Singles Chart, and though it wasn’t as commercially successful as some of their other hits, it has remained a cult favorite among fans. “Night of the Long Grass” is a testament to The Troggs’ ability to craft songs that are both musically rich and emotionally resonant, making it a standout in their discography.
7. Give It To Me (1967)
“Give It To Me,” released in 1967, is a high-energy track that perfectly captures the raw, unfiltered sound The Troggs were known for. With its driving beat, gritty guitar riffs, and Presley’s commanding vocals, the song is a perfect example of the band’s garage rock roots. The lyrics, which revolve around an insistent desire for love, are delivered with a sense of urgency that makes the track both exciting and memorable. Although it didn’t climb as high on the charts as some of their other hits, “Give It To Me” remains a favorite among fans who appreciate the band’s more aggressive, rock-oriented side.
8. You Can Cry If You Want To (1968)
Released in 1968, “You Can Cry If You Want To” is a melancholic track that showcases a more introspective side of The Troggs. The song’s poignant lyrics, which speak to the pain of lost love, are delivered with heartfelt emotion by Reg Presley. The arrangement is relatively simple, allowing the raw emotion of the song to take center stage. Although it wasn’t a major commercial success, “You Can Cry If You Want To” has been praised for its sincerity and emotional depth. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who has experienced heartache, making it a poignant addition to The Troggs’ catalog.
9. Hi Hi Hazel (1967)
“Hi Hi Hazel,” released in 1967, is a lively and upbeat track that captures the playful spirit of The Troggs. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious rhythm made it a favorite among fans, even though it didn’t achieve the same chart success as some of their other singles. The lyrics tell a story of infatuation and the excitement of new love, themes that are perfectly complemented by the song’s energetic arrangement. “Hi Hi Hazel” is a great example of The Troggs’ ability to create fun, feel-good music that gets audiences dancing and singing along. It’s a track that continues to bring joy to listeners, decades after its release.
10. From Home (1966)
“From Home,” released in 1966 as the B-side to “Wild Thing,” is a track that often gets overshadowed by its more famous counterpart, but it deserves recognition in its own right. The song features a bluesy, laid-back vibe that contrasts with the high-energy rock that The Troggs are best known for. Presley’s vocals are smooth and soulful, and the instrumentation is tight, showcasing the band’s musical versatility. While it may not have been a major hit, “From Home” is a hidden gem in The Troggs’ catalog, offering a glimpse into the band’s broader range and their ability to craft songs that are both relaxed and engaging.