BBC News reports that Reg Presley (pictured second to left), frontman for the 1960s garage rock icons the Troggs, has died after a battle with lung cancer. He was 71.
The Troggs had a string of hits in the 1960s, including "Wild Thing", "With a Girl Like You", "Love is All Around", "Any Way That You Want Me", and "I Can't Control Myself". Over the years, they've been cited as an influence by countless garage and punk bands, from the MC5 to Ty Segall.
In 2002, Presley published a book on alien activity and crop circles called Wild Things They Don't Tell Us. The band continued on and off until January 2012, when Presley wrote an open letter on the band's website announcing his retirement.
As you all know I was taken ill whilst doing a gig in Germany in December. During my stay in hospital tests showed that in fact I have lung cancer. I am receiving chemotherapy treatment and at the moment not feeling too bad.
However I’ve had to call time on The Troggs and retire. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the cards and calls and for your love, loyalty and support over the years.
A big thank you to Jackie for running the fan club and keeping you all up to speed, and a huge and special thank you to Chris, Pete and Dave.
I shall miss you all.
Lots of Love
Reg.
"Any Way That You Want Me":
"With a Girl Like You":