The 10 best songs by The Troggs of all time

The Troggs are an English rock band formed in 1964, best known for their raw and influential sound that bridged the gap between garage rock and the British Invasion. Originally consisting of Reg Presley (lead vocals), Chris Britton (guitar), Pete Staples (bass) and Ronnie Bond (drums), the band rose to international fame with their 1966 hit “Wild Thing”. Characterised by its simple yet powerful riff and primal energy, this iconic track became a defining anthem of the 1960s rock scene. Other notable songs include “With a Girl Like You”, “Love Is All Around” and “A Girl Like You”. The Troggs’ music had a lasting impact on the rock and punk genres, influencing many subsequent bands.

1. Wild Thing

“Wild Thing” by The Troggs is a classic rock song from 1966. Known for its raw, primal energy and simple yet infectious guitar riff, the song became an instant hit and a classic of the 1960s garage rock era. Considered one of the quintessential “garage band” anthems, “Wild Thing” features evocative lyrics delivered with a rebellious attitude by lead singer Reg Presley. Its raw power and catchy melody made it a fan favorite and catapulted it to the top of the charts in both the UK and the US. “Wild Thing” remains a timeless rock and roll anthem, celebrated for its lasting influence on the music scene.

2. Love is everywhere

“Love Is All Around” is a classic song originally recorded by The Troggs in 1967. Known for its soulful lyrics and simple, melodic structure, the song expresses themes of love and affection in a direct and genuine way. The Troggs’ original version became a hit, reaching high positions on various music charts.

In 1994, the song became popular again when it was covered by Wet Wet Wet for the soundtrack of the romantic comedy Four Weddings and a Funeral. Wet Wet Wet’s rendition topped the UK charts for several weeks and became one of the best-selling singles in UK chart history. Their version highlighted the song’s emotional depth and global appeal, cementing “Love Is All Around” as a timeless love song loved by listeners around the world.

3. With a girl like you

“With a Girl Like You” is an upbeat and optimistic pop rock song by The Troggs, released in 1966. Known for its catchy melody and playful lyrics, the song celebrates the joy and excitement of being in love. It features the band’s signature raspy guitar sound and the distinctive vocals of lead singer Reg Presley, conveying a sense of youthful exuberance and infatuation.

The song was the follow-up to The Troggs’ hit “Wild Thing” and was a huge success, reaching the top 10 in both the UK and US. “With a Girl Like You” remains a popular example of 1960s rock’n’roll, capturing the carefree spirit and optimism of the era with its infectious rhythm and upbeat lyrics.

4. I can’t control myself

“I Can’t Control Myself” is a spirited rock song by The Troggs, released in 1966. Known for its energetic guitar riffs, driving beat and raspy vocals by Reg Presley, the song embodies the youthful exuberance and rebellious spirit of the 1960s British rock scene.

The lyrics express a feeling of uncontrollable desire and attraction, underlined by the catchy chorus and infectious rhythm. “I Can’t Control Myself” became a hit for The Troggs, reaching the top 10 in the UK charts and cementing their reputation as one of the leading garage rock bands of the era.

With its raw energy and catchy hooks, “I Can’t Control Myself” remains a classic example of 1960s rock ‘n’ roll, celebrated for its lasting appeal and influence on subsequent generations of rock music.

5. Whatever you want me

“Anyway That You Want Me” by The Troggs is a soulful and melodic rock ballad from 1966. Originally written by Chip Taylor, the song features the raw and soulful vocals characteristic of The Troggs paired with a soft, introspective melody. It became a major hit for the band, showcasing their versatility beyond their rougher tunes such as “Wild Thing”. Conveying themes of love and longing, the song’s poetic lyrics and heartfelt delivery resonate with listeners and cemented The Troggs’ reputation as influential figures in the 1960s rock music landscape.

6. Give it to me

“Give It to Me” is a 1967 rock song by The Troggs. Known for its raw energy and rough, guitar-driven sound, the song is a prime example of the band’s signature garage rock style. Led by Reg Presley’s powerful vocals and accompanied by aggressive guitar riffs, “Give It to Me” embodies the rebellious and uninhibited spirit of 1960s rock’n’roll.

The song’s lyrics express a blunt desire for physical proximity, reflecting the band’s penchant for provocative subject matter and candid storytelling. Although “Give It to Me” is not as commercially successful as some of their other hits, it remains a notable example of the Troggs’ contribution to the garage rock genre, characterized by its raw intensity and infectious groove.

7. Night of the Tall Grass

“Night of the Long Grass” is a psychedelic rock song by The Troggs, released in 1967. Noted for its dreamy, atmospheric sound and experimental production, the track shows the band’s departure from their earlier garage rock style towards a more adventurous musical direction. The song’s surreal lyrics and complex instrumentation reflect the influence of the burgeoning psychedelic rock movement of the 1960s. “Night of the Long Grass” remains a notable piece in The Troggs’ discography, demonstrating their willingness to explore new musical landscapes beyond their initial hits such as “Wild Thing” and “With a Girl Like You”.

8. Hello, hello, Hazel

“Hi Hi Hazel” is a lively and upbeat pop rock song by The Troggs from 1967. The song is known for its catchy melody and rousing rhythm and features the band’s typical energetic guitar sound and the unmistakable vocals of lead singer Reg Presley.

The lyrics of “Hi Hi Hazel” revolve around a playful and flirtatious story that celebrates the excitement and anticipation of meeting someone new. The song’s fast tempo and catchy hooks contributed to its popularity, securing it a place in the charts in the UK and US.

Showcasing The Troggs’ ability to combine the energy of rock’n’roll with a flair for pop, “Hi Hi Hazel” is a popular track that captures the carefree spirit of the 1960s music scene.

9. Evil Woman

“Evil Woman” is a classic rock song by British band Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), released in 1975 as part of their album Face the Music. Written by Jeff Lynne, the song features a catchy melody, fast tempo, and a distinctive blend of rock and orchestral elements that is characteristic of ELO’s sound. The lyrics tell the story of a man warning others about the manipulative and deceitful ways of an “evil woman.” “Evil Woman” became a major hit for ELO, reaching high chart positions around the world and cementing the band’s popularity in the 1970s.

10. Little Girl

“Little Girl” is a poignant and soulful ballad by The Troggs, released in 1968. This song differs from their more upbeat and energetic hits and shows a softer and more thoughtful side of the band.

With its gentle melody and soulful lyrics, “Little Girl” deals with themes of love and longing, expressing the narrator’s deep affection for a girl who has captured his heart. Reg Presley’s vocals convey vulnerability and sincerity, supported by the band’s melodic instrumentation.

Although “Little Girl” did not enjoy the same commercial success as some of The Troggs’ earlier hits, it remains a remarkable example of their versatility as musicians and demonstrates their ability to deliver soulful performances alongside their more rock-oriented pieces.

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