The 10 best songs by The Troggs of all time

The Troggs were an English rock band formed in the 1960s, known for their raw and energetic rock sound. Their most famous song is “Wild Thing”, which was released in 1966, became a worldwide hit, and is considered a classic of garage rock and proto-punk. The Troggs’ music was often characterized by simple chord progressions, powerful vocals, and a rebellious attitude that influenced the punk rock movement. Other notable songs by The Troggs include “With a Girl Like You” and “Love Is All Around”, which also achieved great success. The band’s influence on rock music continues to be evident, and their raw and direct style has continued to influence the genre.

1. Wild Thing

“Wild Thing” is a classic rock song originally recorded by The Troggs in 1966. Written by Chip Taylor, the song is characterized by its simple yet infectious guitar riff and straightforward lyrics celebrating wild and uninhibited love. “Wild Thing” became a huge hit for The Troggs, reaching number one on the charts in the United States and many other countries. Its raw and primal energy, coupled with the band’s raspy vocals, made it a defining song of the garage rock era and a classic of rock and roll. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, further cementing its status as a rock classic.

2. Love is everywhere

“Love Is All Around” is a song originally recorded by The Troggs in 1967. The song was written by Reg Presley and is a classic rock ballad known for its simple yet soulful lyrics and catchy melody. The Troggs’ version of “Love Is All Around” became a major hit, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 1 on the UK Singles Chart.

The song’s lyrics cover themes of love and devotion, conveying the message that love is omnipresent and uplifting. Its catchy chorus and soft, romantic mood made the song a favorite in the 1960s and beyond. Over the years, “Love Is All Around” has been covered by various artists, including a notable version by Wet Wet Wet in 1994 that topped charts around the world.

The Troggs’ original recording remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its enduring appeal and universal message about the power of love.

3. With a girl like you

“With a Girl Like You” is a song by The Troggs, released in 1966. It became a notable hit for the band, following the success of their earlier hit “Wild Thing”. The song features a catchy melody, a fast tempo, and the distinctive vocals of lead singer Reg Presley.

The lyrics of “With a Girl Like You” express joy and contentment in the company of a loved one and celebrate the happiness that comes with a romantic relationship. The song’s lighthearted and playful tone, coupled with its infectious rhythm, contributed to its popularity in the mid-1960s.

“With a Girl Like You” cemented the Troggs’ reputation as a standout band in the British Invasion era, known for their straightforward rock’n’roll sound and catchy melodies. The song remains a favorite among fans of 1960s rock music and is appreciated for its charm and timeless appeal.

4. I can’t control myself

“I Can’t Control Myself” is a song by The Troggs released in 1966. It became one of their most successful singles, reaching the top 10 in both the UK Singles Chart and the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US. The song is characterized by its raw energy, catchy guitar riffs and the passionate vocals of lead singer Reg Presley.

The lyrics of “I Can’t Control Myself” express uncontrollable desire and infatuation, with the protagonist unable to contain his emotions. The song’s fast tempo and infectious melody contributed to its popularity in the mid-1960s, appealing to audiences with its rebellious and vibrant rock sound.

“I Can’t Control Myself” remains a classic example of the distinctive style of the Troggs, who are known for their no-nonsense approach to rock and roll. The song’s enduring popularity has cemented its place in rock music history and demonstrates the Troggs’ influence on the British Invasion and garage rock movements of the era.

5. Whatever you want me

“Anyway That You Want Me” is a song originally recorded by The Troggs in 1966. Written by Chip Taylor, the song is a melodic ballad that contrasts with the band’s rougher and more energetic hits such as “Wild Thing”. “Anyway That You Want Me” has soulful lyrics and a softer musical arrangement, showcasing a different side of The Troggs’ musical versatility. The song was moderately successful upon its release and has been covered by various artists over the years, including versions by The Zombies and Spiritualized, to name a few. Its enduring appeal lies in its romantic themes and emotional delivery, which add depth to The Troggs’ repertoire beyond their typical garage rock style.

6. Give it to me

“Give It to Me” is a song by The Troggs released in 1967. It is known for its energetic and aggressive rock sound typical of the band’s style. The song features a driving beat, rough guitar riffs, and harsh vocals, characteristic of The Troggs’ rebellious and no-nonsense approach to rock music. “Give It to Me” captures the band’s raw energy and attitude, and will appeal to fans of garage rock and proto-punk. While not as well known as some of their other hits such as “Wild Thing,” it remains a notable track in The Troggs’ catalog, reflecting their influence on 1960s rock music.

7. Night of the Tall Grass

“Night of the Long Grass” is a song by The Troggs, released in 1967. It is a notable track that shows the band’s evolution towards a more psychedelic rock sound, moving somewhat away from their earlier straightforward rock and roll style. The song features intricate guitar work, a dreamy atmosphere, and psychedelic influences in its arrangement and production.

Lyrically, “Night of the Long Grass” deals with themes of escapism and freedom, with striking imagery reflecting the psychedelic era of the late 1960s. The title of the song itself is a reference to a historical event, “The Night of the Long Knives,” which adds an additional depth to its interpretation.

“Night of the Long Grass” was well received for its experimental approach and marked a shift in the Troggs’ musical direction. Although the song was not as commercially successful as some of their earlier hits, it is appreciated by fans and critics alike for its adventurous spirit and its contribution to the band’s diverse discography.

8. Hello, hello, Hazel

“Hi Hi Hazel” is a song by The Troggs released in 1967. It is a lively and upbeat track that showcases the band’s energetic rock style. The song features catchy melodies, lively guitar riffs and playful lyrics, capturing the light-hearted spirit of the 1960s rock era. “Hi Hi Hazel” was a minor hit for The Troggs, known for its infectious charm and danceable rhythm. While not as well known as some of their bigger hits, it remains an entertaining example of The Troggs’ contribution to the garage rock genre.

9. Evil Woman

“Evil Woman” is a song by British rock band Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), released on their 1975 album “Face the Music”. Written by bandleader Jeff Lynne, “Evil Woman” is characterized by its fast tempo, catchy melody, and distinctive blend of rock, pop, and orchestral elements that have become ELO’s trademark.

Lyrically, “Evil Woman” tells a cautionary tale about a manipulative and deceitful woman who causes trouble for those around her. Despite the serious subject matter, the song’s energetic rhythm and Lynne’s dynamic vocals give it a lively and almost playful feel.

“Evil Woman” became a major hit for ELO, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US and enjoying international success. It remains one of the band’s best-known and most enduring songs, known for its infectious hooks and innovative production, which helped define ELO’s success in the 1970s and beyond.

10. Little Girl

“Little Girl” is a song by The Troggs released in 1966. It is a bluesy rock song characterized by its rough guitar riff and raspy vocals, typical of The Troggs’ early garage rock style. The song features a straightforward musical arrangement and lyrics that reflect themes of desire and longing. “Little Girl” was one of The Troggs’ early singles, before they rose to international fame with hits such as “Wild Thing”. It showcases their rough and rebellious approach to rock music, and will appeal to fans of the garage rock and proto-punk genres.

Edward Tomlin is a frequent collaborator with Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us on social media below.