When it comes to the British rock scene of the 1960s, few bands left as indelible a mark as The Troggs. With their raw energy and infectious melodies, this group captured the spirit of a generation, creating timeless hits that still resonate today. Emerging from the small town of Andover, Hampshire, The Troggs burst onto the music scene with a sound that blended rock, pop, and a touch of garage punk, leading to a legacy that has influenced countless artists.
From their unforgettable anthems to those catchy riffs that linger long after the last note fades, The Troggs have produced a catalog that showcases their unique style and enduring appeal. Songs like “Wild Thing” and “Love Is All Around” not only topped charts but also became staples in the playlists of music lovers across the globe. In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 most popular songs by The Troggs, exploring the stories behind these iconic tracks and their lasting impact on music history. Get ready to rediscover the magic of The Troggs as we celebrate their most memorable hits!
1. Wild Thing (1966)
“Wild Thing” is the song that catapulted The Troggs into rock history. Released in 1966, it’s the band’s defining hit and one of the most iconic tracks of the decade. The song’s success lies in its simplicity—gritty guitar chords, minimal production, and a primal vocal performance from lead singer Reg Presley. There’s a raw magnetism to the track that perfectly captures the chaotic spirit of youth. The lyrics are straightforward but powerful, expressing a kind of reckless infatuation that feels both rebellious and universal. “Wild Thing, I think I love you” has become a pop culture catchphrase in its own right. What really makes the song unforgettable, though, is that now-legendary opening riff—it’s rough, it’s loud, and it practically begs you to turn the volume up. The Troggs managed to pack a whole lot of attitude into a few minutes of music, creating a garage rock anthem that influenced punk, grunge, and beyond. Even decades later, “Wild Thing” still sounds thrilling, like the musical equivalent of jumping into a mosh pit with no apologies. It’s bold, it’s raw, and it remains a perfect snapshot of rock’s rebellious heart.
2. Love Is All Around (1967)
“Love Is All Around,” released in 1967, reveals a softer, more romantic side of The Troggs. Known for their raw rock hits, the band took a more tender turn with this ballad, and it paid off beautifully. The song opens with gentle instrumentation and builds into a warm, lush arrangement that carries the listener through a heartfelt message about the universality of love. Reg Presley’s vocals are sincere and intimate, delivering each line with emotional clarity that draws you in. The chorus, simple and sweet—“Love is all around, no need to waste it”—resonates with listeners across generations. It’s a reminder that love is always present, even in uncertain times. The timeless nature of the song is further proven by the many artists who have covered it over the years, including the famous version by Wet Wet Wet in the 1990s. But it’s The Troggs’ original that retains a certain honesty and purity that’s hard to replicate. “Love Is All Around” isn’t just a love song—it’s a gentle anthem of hope and connection, showcasing the band’s versatility and emotional depth. It’s a standout track that continues to inspire and comfort.
3. With a Girl Like You (1966)
Released in 1966, “With a Girl Like You” captures the sweet rush of new love in a way that feels playful and genuine. It’s one of those songs that instantly lifts your mood. Built around a bright, catchy melody and a driving beat, the track has a singalong quality that makes it instantly memorable. Lyrically, it’s straightforward and earnest—a guy telling a girl that everything seems better when she’s around. That kind of sincerity is one of The Troggs’ greatest strengths. Reg Presley’s delivery is filled with charm, slightly rough around the edges, which makes the emotion feel real rather than overly polished. The “ba ba ba ba” vocal hook adds a bit of whimsy that keeps the song lighthearted. There’s a certain innocence in both the lyrics and the sound, evoking images of teenage crushes and carefree afternoons. It’s not trying to be deep or groundbreaking—it’s just trying to capture a feeling, and it does that beautifully. “With a Girl Like You” is an enduring piece of pop-rock sunshine that’s hard not to love, reminding us that sometimes the simplest songs leave the strongest impressions.
4. I Can’t Control Myself (1966)
“I Can’t Control Myself,” released in 1966, is one of The Troggs’ more provocative tracks, brimming with raw energy and unfiltered desire. From the first few notes, the song builds a palpable tension that mirrors the lyrical theme—being overwhelmed by attraction and unable to resist its pull. Reg Presley delivers the vocals with a sense of urgency and passion that feels almost confessional. The lyrics were considered daring at the time, with lines like “Your slacks are low and your hips are showing” pushing boundaries in the pre-psychedelic era of rock. Musically, it leans into a gritty rock sound with driving percussion and a hypnotic guitar line that gives it a primal edge. The chorus is intense and unrelenting, mirroring the feelings of obsession and loss of control. It’s this balance between catchy structure and emotional abandon that makes the track so compelling. “I Can’t Control Myself” captures a more mature and lustful dimension of The Troggs’ songwriting and set them apart from other British Invasion bands. Even today, it feels bold and alive—an honest portrayal of human desire wrapped in a storm of sound.
5. Any Way That You Want Me (1966)
“Any Way That You Want Me” showcases The Troggs at their most heartfelt and vulnerable. Released in 1966, the song is a sincere declaration of devotion, marked by gentle instrumentation and a tender vocal performance from Reg Presley. It’s a significant departure from the band’s louder, more rebellious tracks, but that’s part of what makes it so memorable. The lyrics are beautifully straightforward: “I’ll be there to make you happy / I’ll be there to see you through.” It’s about surrendering to love completely, offering yourself without hesitation. Musically, it’s soft and melodic, with a slow tempo that invites quiet reflection. The arrangement builds gradually, adding subtle layers that heighten the emotion without overwhelming it. There’s a genuine warmth to the song, and it resonates with anyone who’s ever been willing to change or adapt for someone they care deeply about. The vulnerability on display is refreshing, especially in an era where many rock bands leaned into bravado. “Any Way That You Want Me” is a beautiful example of emotional honesty in music, and it remains a hidden gem in The Troggs’ catalog—tender, true, and timeless.
6. Give It to Me (1967)
“Give It to Me,” released in 1967, is The Troggs at their most confident and commanding. From the title alone, the song exudes a sense of urgency and desire that drives its entire mood. The track blends gritty guitar riffs with a hypnotic rhythm, creating a sound that’s both sultry and bold. Reg Presley’s vocals are front and center, teetering between a plea and a demand, as he sings with an emotional intensity that doesn’t hold back. The lyrics are minimal but effective, creating an atmosphere that’s more about feeling than storytelling. That’s part of the magic—the repetition and raw delivery turn this into more than a song; it becomes a vibe. You feel the tension in the beat and the anticipation in Presley’s voice. It’s not just about romance or attraction; it’s about need, longing, and the thrill of pursuit. The song’s punchy structure and memorable hook make it a standout in their late-’60s catalog. While not as widely celebrated as “Wild Thing,” “Give It to Me” is a hidden powerhouse—a track that pulses with energy and demands attention, perfectly capturing The Troggs’ fearless approach to rock and roll.
7. Hi Hi Hazel (1967)
“Hi Hi Hazel,” released in 1967, is a playful and upbeat tune that captures the lighter, more carefree side of The Troggs. From the opening bars, the song brims with youthful enthusiasm, driven by a bouncy rhythm and an irresistibly catchy chorus. It’s essentially a musical shout-out to a girl named Hazel, but beneath the simplicity lies a certain charm that makes the track endure. Reg Presley’s vocals are bright and full of character, adding personality to the lyrics and making it feel like a real moment of infatuation. There’s an almost doo-wop influence in the harmonies and song structure, giving it a retro-pop flavor that adds to its nostalgic appeal. The guitar work is tight and rhythmic, creating a danceable groove that’s hard to resist. Lyrically, it’s all about longing for attention from someone who may not even realize the effect they’re having—an emotion anyone can relate to. “Hi Hi Hazel” doesn’t aim to be groundbreaking, but that’s its strength. It’s fun, uncomplicated, and delivered with genuine heart, making it the kind of song you find yourself humming hours later. A feel-good highlight from the band’s 1967 repertoire.
8. Night of the Long Grass (1967)
“Night of the Long Grass” is one of The Troggs’ more atmospheric and mysterious tracks, released in 1967 during a time when rock music was growing more experimental. This song stands out for its moody tone and haunting soundscape, offering something quite different from the band’s better-known garage rock hits. The title alone evokes a vivid image—something slightly eerie, maybe romantic, maybe dangerous—and the music follows through on that promise. The melody is slow and brooding, carried by minor chords and echoing vocals that draw the listener into a dreamlike state. Reg Presley sings with a sense of longing and tension, suggesting a love that’s intense but possibly fading. Lyrically, it’s more poetic and suggestive than their usual fare, inviting multiple interpretations. The instrumentation is layered with subtle effects and a hypnotic rhythm that adds to the track’s unique feel. “Night of the Long Grass” reveals a different side of The Troggs—one that embraces mood, ambiguity, and atmosphere. It’s a haunting love song disguised as a slow-burning rock ballad, and it proves the band could be just as compelling when they turned down the volume and turned up the emotion.
9. Love Is All Around (Reprise) (1967)
This reprise of “Love Is All Around,” also from 1967, revisits the tenderness of the original with a more reflective and textured sound. While the core message remains the same—that love is everywhere, waiting to be embraced—this version carries an added layer of depth that suggests growth, both musically and emotionally. The arrangement feels fuller and more confident, with a richer mix of instrumentation and a slightly more mature vocal performance from Reg Presley. It doesn’t try to reinvent the original but rather complements it by emphasizing the enduring quality of its message. This reprise is less about youthful exuberance and more about quiet assurance. It reminds listeners that love isn’t just fleeting passion—it’s a presence that can grow deeper over time. The Troggs manage to recapture the magic of the original while subtly expanding its emotional range. It’s a rare example of a reprise that doesn’t feel like a retread but instead enhances the legacy of the song. “Love Is All Around (Reprise)” is a gentle echo of the band’s sincerity, a reminder of their ability to convey hope, warmth, and timeless emotion through simple yet powerful music.
10. The Girl I Knew (1966)
“The Girl I Knew,” released in 1966, is a heartfelt reflection on love and memory. Unlike the boldness of “Wild Thing” or the cheer of “Hi Hi Hazel,” this track leans into a more wistful, almost melancholic tone. From the first notes, there’s a sense of quiet sadness that settles in—a feeling of looking back on something once cherished but now out of reach. Reg Presley’s vocals are soft and sincere, giving weight to lyrics that describe a lost connection and the lingering presence of someone who’s no longer around. The melody is gentle and understated, allowing the emotional core of the song to shine through. It’s a song about remembrance, about how love can leave an imprint long after it’s gone. Musically, it’s one of The Troggs’ more subdued efforts, but that only makes its emotional impact more profound. “The Girl I Knew” shows a band capable of introspection and subtlety, balancing their usual rock energy with genuine vulnerability. It’s a song that sticks with you, not because it shouts, but because it quietly speaks a universal truth about love and loss.
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.
