The Troggs, one of the most iconic British rock bands of the 1960s, left an indelible mark on the music world with their raw, primal sound and unforgettable melodies. Known for their infectious energy and timeless hits, this legendary group captured the spirit of an era and influenced countless artists across genres. From garage rock to proto-punk, The Troggs’ music continues to resonate with fans old and new, proving their staying power and brilliance.
In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular songs by The Troggs, a band whose music has stood the test of time. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer looking to explore their catalog, these tracks showcase their unique ability to blend raw passion with undeniable hooks. From the smash hit that cemented their place in rock history to hidden gems that deserve more recognition, these songs illustrate why The Troggs remain a cornerstone of classic rock.
Get ready to revisit some of the most electrifying and soulful tracks ever recorded, as we count down The Troggs’ greatest hits. So crank up the volume, and let’s celebrate the unforgettable music of one of rock’s most enduring legends!
1. “Wild Thing” (1966)
“Wild Thing” is more than just a rock song—it’s a raw, unfiltered anthem that helped shape the sound of garage rock in the 1960s. With its instantly recognizable three-chord riff and rough-around-the-edges production, the song captured the rebellious energy of the decade in just under three minutes. The Troggs weren’t trying to be polished or refined; they leaned into a gritty, primal sound that felt refreshingly honest. Reg Presley’s raspy vocals are loaded with swagger, delivering playful and slightly provocative lyrics that were bold for the time. There’s an almost hypnotic simplicity to the track that makes it stick in your mind, from the chugging guitar to the infamous spoken line, “You make my heart sing.” Released in 1966, it quickly became a global hit and remains the band’s signature song. Over the years, it’s been covered by countless artists—including a famously wild version by Jimi Hendrix—but the original still stands out for its raw charm. “Wild Thing” isn’t just a song you listen to; it’s one you feel in your bones. It encapsulates the raw spirit of rock ‘n’ roll at its most stripped-down and uninhibited.
2. “Love Is All Around” (1967)
“Love Is All Around” reveals a completely different side of The Troggs—gentle, heartfelt, and beautifully tender. Released in 1967, this ballad was written by lead singer Reg Presley and became one of the band’s most beloved and enduring songs. The lyrics are simple yet deeply affecting, expressing the idea that love is a constant presence in the world, surrounding us in everything we do. With its soft melody and understated arrangement, the song glides along gracefully, carried by Presley’s sincere vocal performance. What makes this track so special is its emotional honesty. There’s no overproduction, no attempt to dazzle with complexity—just a heartfelt message wrapped in a warm, melodic package. While many listeners today may associate the song with Wet Wet Wet’s 1994 cover, which became a massive hit, it’s the original version by The Troggs that holds a certain raw purity. It captures a moment of innocence and emotional clarity in a turbulent decade. “Love Is All Around” has stood the test of time not because it’s flashy, but because it’s genuine. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful songs are the ones that speak softly and come straight from the heart.
3. “With a Girl Like You” (1966)
“With a Girl Like You” is one of The Troggs’ most charming and melodic hits, released in the same breakout year as “Wild Thing.” Where “Wild Thing” roared, this one croons. The song opens with a catchy whistle that sets the tone for a light, romantic tune about longing and young love. Reg Presley’s vocals take on a softer tone here, perfectly matched to the sweet, almost innocent lyrics. The jangly guitar riff and straightforward rhythm create a warm, nostalgic vibe that captures the carefree spirit of mid-60s pop-rock. It’s the kind of song that makes you think of jukeboxes, sock hops, and high school crushes. Despite its simplicity, the song’s earnestness is what makes it stick. It topped the UK charts and did well internationally, proving that The Troggs weren’t just a one-hit wonder with a wild streak—they had a knack for catchy, heartfelt tunes too. “With a Girl Like You” is pure ear candy, and its simplicity is its strength. It’s one of those songs that instantly transports you to a different time, when love felt new and every glance or touch meant the world.
4. “I Can’t Control Myself” (1966)
“I Can’t Control Myself” is one of The Troggs’ boldest and most provocative tracks—a song that stirred up controversy when it was first released in 1966. With its sexually charged lyrics and a vocal performance that walks the line between desire and desperation, it was considered daring, even shocking, at the time. But that didn’t stop it from becoming a hit. The song’s power lies in its unfiltered emotional intensity. Reg Presley delivers the lines with a mix of lust and vulnerability, backed by a gritty guitar riff and a pulsing rhythm that seems to echo a racing heartbeat. There’s a sense of tension running through the song, a feeling that something is about to explode. And in many ways, it did. Radio stations hesitated to play it, but the public response was overwhelming—it climbed the charts and cemented The Troggs’ reputation as boundary-pushers in the rock world. “I Can’t Control Myself” captures the primal side of love and desire in a way that few songs dared to in the ’60s. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s a reminder of just how fearless The Troggs could be when they let their emotions lead.
5. “Any Way That You Want Me” (1966)
“Any Way That You Want Me” is a beautifully emotional ballad that shows The Troggs could slow things down and still deliver a powerful performance. Released in 1966, this song doesn’t rely on flashy instrumentation or pounding rhythms—instead, it draws you in with a tender melody and a heartfelt vocal from Reg Presley. The lyrics speak of a deep, selfless love, with the narrator willing to change and be whatever their partner needs. There’s a vulnerability in the delivery that makes it feel deeply personal. The music itself is gentle and flowing, with soft guitar strums and subtle harmonies that give the track an intimate feel. It’s not as well-known as some of their bigger hits, but among fans, it’s often cited as one of their most moving songs. What sets it apart is its emotional honesty—there’s no bravado here, just quiet devotion. It shows a more mature, reflective side of the band and stands as a testament to their versatility. “Any Way That You Want Me” proves that The Troggs were more than just rowdy rockers—they were capable of real emotional depth and musical sensitivity.
6. “Night of the Long Grass” (1967)
“Night of the Long Grass” is one of the most haunting and atmospheric tracks in The Troggs’ catalog. Released in 1967, the song marked a noticeable shift from their usual garage-rock sound to something moodier and more experimental. Right from the opening, the instrumentation feels dark and brooding, creating an eerie ambiance that draws listeners into a shadowy world. The lyrics are poetic and mysterious, hinting at themes of secrecy, seduction, and danger. Reg Presley’s voice takes on a hushed, almost whisper-like quality, enhancing the song’s dreamlike vibe. While many of their earlier songs leaned into rawness and simplicity, this one reveals a more nuanced approach to songwriting. The use of orchestration and layered textures showed the band wasn’t afraid to explore new sonic territory. Though it wasn’t as commercially successful as their earlier hits, “Night of the Long Grass” has gained a kind of cult status among fans who appreciate its depth and deviation from the expected. It proves The Troggs were more than just purveyors of simple rock—they had an experimental side that could surprise you. This track is a beautifully strange journey that still captivates decades later.
7. “Give It to Me” (1967)
“Give It to Me” is pure, unfiltered rock ‘n’ roll, brimming with confidence and swagger. Released in 1967, this track captures The Troggs in full energetic form, combining driving beats with flirtatious lyrics that flirt with innuendo. The song opens with a catchy, pounding rhythm that immediately sets the tone—this isn’t a track that eases in gently. Reg Presley delivers the vocals with gusto, sounding both playful and commanding as he urges someone to give in to desire. There’s a kinetic energy that runs through the whole song, with chugging guitar riffs and a beat that makes you want to move. Lyrically, it’s not complex, but that’s part of the charm. It’s bold, brash, and undeniably fun. What makes “Give It to Me” stand out is how it captures the essence of what made The Troggs great: their ability to take simple elements and turn them into something incredibly catchy. It’s a song that doesn’t overthink—it just rocks. Over the years, it’s become a favorite among fans for its infectious rhythm and rebellious spirit. “Give It to Me” is The Troggs doing what they do best—delivering high-energy, no-frills rock with attitude.
8. “Little Girl” (1968)
“Little Girl” might not be as widely known as The Troggs’ big hits, but it’s a gem that deserves more attention. Released in 1968, this track shows a softer, more introspective side of the band. The melody is warm and inviting, built on gentle guitar strumming and a laid-back groove that contrasts nicely with some of their louder material. Reg Presley’s vocal performance is sincere and heartfelt, capturing the vulnerability in the lyrics, which seem to reflect on love, innocence, and perhaps even regret. There’s a sweet, almost lullaby-like quality to the music, but it never feels overly sentimental. The production is simple, letting the emotion of the song shine through without distraction. What’s impressive about “Little Girl” is how it blends the band’s rock roots with a more pop-oriented sensibility. It demonstrates that The Troggs were capable of writing songs that didn’t need to shout to be heard—they could whisper and still make an impact. It’s a quietly powerful tune that rewards repeated listens. For fans looking to go beyond the hits, “Little Girl” offers a glimpse into the emotional range and songwriting skill the band possessed.
9. “Cousin Jane” (1969)
“Cousin Jane” is a reflective and emotionally rich song that stands apart in The Troggs’ discography. Released in 1969, it’s a far cry from the primal energy of “Wild Thing” or the flirtatious punch of “I Can’t Control Myself.” Here, the band trades distortion for delicacy, crafting a song that leans more toward folk-rock than garage rock. The instrumentation is restrained and thoughtful, with a melancholic melody that supports Reg Presley’s wistful vocals. The lyrics are open to interpretation—some hear a tale of lost love, others a lament for someone who has drifted away. Either way, it’s clear that the song taps into deep emotional territory. The Troggs were often seen as a band of raw instincts and rough edges, but “Cousin Jane” showcases a level of maturity and subtlety that’s truly impressive. It’s the kind of song that sticks with you, not because it’s loud or catchy, but because it feels honest. Over time, it has earned a quiet respect among fans as one of their most introspective and emotionally nuanced works. “Cousin Jane” proves that The Troggs weren’t afraid to slow down and explore the deeper side of their songwriting.
10. “You Can Cry If You Want To” (1965)
“You Can Cry If You Want To” is one of The Troggs’ earliest recordings, and it’s a raw, emotionally charged track that hints at the power the band would soon unleash on the rock world. Released in 1965, before their breakout success, the song showcases the group’s early ability to balance emotional expression with rock grit. The lyrics speak to heartbreak and the complicated emotions of a breakup, but the delivery has an edge—it’s not just a sad song, it’s a song about letting go and allowing yourself to feel. Reg Presley’s vocal performance is gritty and expressive, full of wounded pride and barely contained frustration. Musically, it’s driven by steady guitar work and a rhythm that adds urgency to the emotional message. There’s an authenticity here that’s hard to miss. Even in their earliest days, The Troggs had a knack for combining simple structures with powerful emotion. “You Can Cry If You Want To” may not have hit the same heights as their later singles, but it played an important role in laying the foundation for their signature sound. It’s a stirring reminder of the raw beginnings of a band that would help shape the future of rock.
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.
