A Raw and Energetic Rock Anthem That Shook the World
The Troggs, a British rock band hailing from Andover, England, burst onto the music scene in the mid-1960s with their infectious brand of garage rock. Their breakthrough hit, “Wild Thing,” catapulted them to international fame, and they quickly followed up with another chart-topper, “With a Girl Like You.” In September 1966, the band released their third single, “I Can’t Control Myself,” a song that would solidify their status as one of the most exciting and controversial acts of the era.
Written by lead vocalist Reg Presley and recorded at Olympic Studios in London, “I Can’t Control Myself” showcased the Troggs’ raw energy and unbridled passion. The song’s driving rhythm, catchy melody, and Presley’s powerful vocals made it an instant hit, reaching the top ten in several countries. However, the song’s success was not without controversy.
The lyrics of “I Can’t Control Myself” were deemed too suggestive for their time, and the song was banned from radio and television in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia. The line “Your slacks are low and your hips are shown” was particularly offensive to some listeners, who interpreted it as sexually explicit. Despite the controversy, the song’s sales were unaffected in the UK and Australia, but its chart performance in the US was hindered by the ban.
In an interview in 2008, Presley clarified that the lyric was simply a reference to the popular “hipster” fashion trend of the time. However, in a later interview, he revealed that the inspiration for the song came from a girl he had seen with low-cut jeans that revealed her pubic hair. The song’s ending, in which Presley screams passionately, was also a source of controversy, with some critics suggesting that it sounded like an orgasm. Both Presley and guitarist Chris Britton denied that this was the intention.
Despite the controversy surrounding its lyrics, “I Can’t Control Myself” remains a classic of garage rock. The song’s raw energy, catchy melody, and Presley’s powerful vocals make it a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with listeners today. The Troggs’ ability to push the boundaries of musical expression and challenge societal norms is a testament to their enduring legacy.