Few bands in the history of rock and roll have left a legacy as raw, primal, and enduring as The Troggs. Rising to fame during the British Invasion of the 1960s, this iconic band carved their name into music history with a sound that combined gritty garage rock with irresistible pop sensibilities. From their unmistakable riffs to their heartfelt lyrics, The Troggs captured the rebellious spirit of a generation and influenced countless artists, from punk pioneers to modern rock legends.
But what truly sets The Troggs apart is their ability to craft songs that stand the test of time. Decade after decade, their music continues to resonate with fans old and new, proving that the magic of their sound is truly timeless. Whether you’re an avid fan of ’60s rock or a newcomer looking to discover one of the genre’s seminal acts, this list is a tribute to their most iconic masterpieces.
So crank up the volume, let the nostalgia wash over you, and join us as we count down the top 10 most popular songs by The Troggs—tracks that defined an era, inspired generations, and still make you want to sing along at the top of your lungs. Let the music take you back!
1. Wild Thing (1966)
“Wild Thing” is the song that made The Troggs legends. Released in 1966, this track is as raw and gritty as rock gets. Built around a simple but unforgettable three-chord guitar riff, it explodes with energy and attitude. Reg Presley’s vocals are unrefined in the best way—rough, passionate, and rebellious. There’s something primal about the entire song, as if it bypasses polish for pure feeling. It became a defining track of the garage rock movement and a rebellious anthem for 1960s youth. The ocarina solo adds a bizarre but iconic twist, reinforcing the track’s offbeat charm. It’s not a polished pop hit; it’s wild and untamed, and that’s exactly why it resonates. It doesn’t try to be clever or complex—it just hits you in the gut. “Wild Thing” has since been covered countless times, but The Troggs’ original remains unmatched in its raw magnetism. Whether blaring through old transistor radios or echoing through modern playlists, it captures a timeless spirit of rebellion and freedom. This is rock music stripped to its core—loud, bold, and unforgettable.
2. Love Is All Around (1967)
“Love Is All Around” reveals a very different side of The Troggs. Released in 1967, this ballad trades their usual raucous sound for something softer and more sentimental. It opens with the now-famous line, “I feel it in my fingers, I feel it in my toes,” immediately setting a warm, romantic tone. Reg Presley’s voice, often associated with rougher material, here takes on a tender and sincere quality. The arrangement is gentle and flowing, driven by light acoustic guitar and subtle orchestration. Unlike many of their gritty garage rock hits, this song feels intimate and emotional. It resonated across the globe and later gained renewed popularity when covered by Wet Wet Wet in the 1990s. But The Troggs’ original version remains cherished for its authenticity and charm. The song’s universal message of love makes it a timeless favorite, perfect for weddings, films, and moments of reflection. “Love Is All Around” proved that The Troggs were more than just loud guitars and rebellious energy—they could craft a heartfelt love song that stood the test of time.
3. With A Girl Like You (1966)
“With A Girl Like You” captures the joyful innocence of early rock and roll. Released in 1966, it’s a breezy, upbeat tune that became an instant hit. Built around a bouncy rhythm and a catchy melody, the song delivers the kind of easygoing charm that feels like summer in sonic form. Reg Presley’s vocals are light and inviting, filled with a playful sincerity. The lyrics are simple but sweet, expressing admiration and longing in a way that’s easy to relate to. Its “ba ba ba ba ba” chorus is instantly memorable and impossible not to sing along with. This track doesn’t aim for complexity—it thrives on feel-good vibes and a sense of youthful optimism. “With A Girl Like You” became a fan favorite and a staple of The Troggs’ live performances. It perfectly balances their garage rock roots with a more pop-oriented accessibility. Listening to it feels like flipping through old photos or remembering a crush from years ago. It’s pure, uncomplicated fun—and a reminder that sometimes, all you need is a catchy tune and a heartfelt lyric to make a classic.
4. I Can’t Control Myself (1966)
“I Can’t Control Myself” is one of The Troggs’ most provocative and intense songs. Released in 1966, it shocked and thrilled audiences with its raw lyrics and sexual tension—pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable in pop music at the time. Built around a gritty guitar riff and a pounding rhythm, the track oozes urgency and desire. Reg Presley delivers the lyrics with a mix of restraint and barely-contained emotion, creating a palpable sense of longing. The chorus is explosive, reinforcing the theme of uncontrollable passion. This wasn’t a love song—it was something more primal, and it caught the attention of both fans and critics. In fact, the song was banned on some radio stations for its suggestive content, which only fueled its mystique. “I Can’t Control Myself” captured a spirit of rebellion that resonated with a generation breaking free of 1950s conservatism. It remains one of the band’s most iconic tracks because it didn’t hold back. It showed The Troggs weren’t afraid to take risks, musically or lyrically. With its raw edge and bold honesty, the song still hits hard today.
5. Night of the Long Grass (1967)
“Night of the Long Grass,” released in 1967, shows a darker, more experimental side of The Troggs. Departing from their signature raw rock sound, this track is moody and atmospheric, drenched in mystery and layered with tension. The swirling guitars and eerie rhythm set an almost cinematic tone, like something from a dream—or a nightmare. Reg Presley’s vocals are more subdued here, delivered with a haunting calmness that adds to the track’s enigmatic feel. Lyrically, it’s cryptic and evocative, offering just enough to spark the imagination without giving everything away. There’s a surreal quality to it that makes you want to listen again just to grasp its strange beauty. While it didn’t enjoy the same commercial success as their big hits, “Night of the Long Grass” has earned respect for its artistic ambition and willingness to take risks. It proves The Troggs weren’t just one-trick rockers—they had a creative edge that sometimes flew under the radar. This song stands out in their catalog as a cult favorite, a brooding gem that rewards deeper listening and offers a glimpse into the band’s more introspective side.
6. Any Way That You Want Me (1966)
“Any Way That You Want Me” is a soulful, emotional ballad that reveals the tender side of The Troggs. Released in 1966, the song slows things down and leans into heartfelt vulnerability. It’s a quiet, almost pleading tune, built around a soft melody and restrained instrumentation that lets the lyrics shine. Reg Presley sings with sincerity and depth, offering himself to a lover in total openness. The lyrics speak of a desire to be molded and accepted, no matter the cost—a universal theme that resonates with anyone who’s ever longed to be truly loved. This track strips away the bravado often associated with rock bands of the era and replaces it with pure emotional honesty. The simplicity of the arrangement—gentle guitar strums and minimal percussion—amplifies its sincerity. Though not as commercially loud as “Wild Thing,” it holds its own through quiet strength. “Any Way That You Want Me” is the kind of song that lingers in your mind long after it ends. It shows The Troggs could be just as compelling when whispering as they were when shouting, proving they were capable of emotional range and artistic depth beyond their garage rock reputation.
7. Give It to Me (1967)
Released in 1967, “Give It to Me” is one of The Troggs’ sultrier, more groove-oriented tracks. From the opening bars, the rhythm grabs you—a slow, swinging beat laced with a sensual tension that feels both laid-back and intense. The lyrics are suggestive but not explicit, walking that fine line between flirtation and boldness. Reg Presley leans into the seductive mood with a smoky vocal delivery, giving the song a feeling of cool confidence. It’s a departure from their punchy, garage-rock hits, showing that the band could slow it down and still command attention. The instrumentation is stripped back but effective: a chugging guitar, steady bass, and subtle percussion all work together to create a hypnotic, almost bluesy groove. “Give It to Me” captures a more adult, mature tone that reflects the shifting landscape of late ‘60s rock. It doesn’t scream for attention; it smolders. The track shows how The Troggs were evolving—experimenting with mood and texture while maintaining the raw appeal that made them famous. It’s a hidden gem that rewards close listening and reveals the band’s versatility beyond their biggest hits.
8. Hi Hi Hazel (1967)
“Hi Hi Hazel” is one of those upbeat, catchy tracks that instantly brings a smile. Released in 1967, the song has a youthful energy that makes it stand out in The Troggs’ catalog. It’s playful and light-hearted, a cheerful tune about a girl named Hazel who clearly made an impression. With its toe-tapping rhythm, bright guitar strums, and sing-along chorus, it’s easy to imagine this being a favorite at parties or on the radio during a summer drive. Reg Presley’s vocals are warm and enthusiastic, perfectly matching the song’s flirtatious tone. It doesn’t aim to be deep or dramatic—this is pure pop-rock fun. “Hi Hi Hazel” might not be one of their most commercially famous songs, but it holds a special charm that makes it memorable. It captures the spirit of the 1960s—light, breezy, and romantic without being overly serious. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to dance, and maybe even fall in love a little. Simple pleasures like this remind us of the emotional power of upbeat music and the joy of a well-crafted pop tune.
9. From Home (1966)
“From Home” may have started as a B-side to “Wild Thing,” but it quickly earned respect as a standout track in its own right. Released in 1966, this song showcases The Troggs at their grittiest. It’s raw, bluesy, and full of attitude. The guitar work is dirty and driving, laying the foundation for Reg Presley’s unmistakable voice, which snarls with rebellious spirit. The lyrics reflect a kind of longing and restlessness, themes that resonate with anyone feeling stuck or misunderstood. Unlike their more polished or romantic songs, “From Home” thrives in its imperfections. It sounds like it was recorded in a garage—and that’s exactly what gives it its power. There’s something almost punk-like about it, years before punk was a genre. It’s a track that captures the essence of rock and roll: unfiltered, urgent, and real. “From Home” reminds us that sometimes, the best songs aren’t the ones that top the charts but the ones that hit you in the gut. For fans of The Troggs’ raw sound, this is a must-listen—an underappreciated gem that showcases the band’s edge and emotional grit.
10. Strange Movies (1972)
By the time “Strange Movies” was released in 1972, The Troggs had already cemented their place in rock history. But this track showed they weren’t content to live off past glory. “Strange Movies” dives headfirst into the more provocative and gritty sounds of the early ‘70s. It’s a departure from their earlier garage rock style, embracing a heavier, more psychedelic vibe. The lyrics are bold, pushing boundaries with vivid imagery and adult themes. Reg Presley’s delivery is darker and more intense, matching the song’s heavier instrumentation and moody tone. There’s a sense of exploration here—as if the band was intentionally stepping into new territory and seeing how far they could go. The track reflects the broader cultural shifts of the era, with music becoming more experimental and socially daring. “Strange Movies” doesn’t hold back; it’s brash, unapologetic, and memorable for its audacity. While it may not have had the chart-topping impact of their earlier hits, it showcased a band willing to grow and take creative risks. It’s a fascinating piece of The Troggs’ evolution and a testament to their willingness to adapt without losing their edge.
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.
