Reg Presley, a member of the classic garage rock band, “The Troggs” died after a year-long bout with lung cancer on Tues. Feb 5. in Andover. He was 71.
Presley, born Reg Ball, first announced his ailing health after falling ill during a concert performance in Germany in January 2012. Shortly after, he began chemotherapy treatment and retired from the band.

Presley and his band scored a hit in the 1960s with “Wild Things.” The record came at a time during the British Invasion which brought musical acts like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones.

The Troggs were also famous for hits like “Love is All Around”, and “With a Girl Like You.”

By the 1970s, The Troggs were not as popular as they once were, but bands like REM and Wet Wet Wet released covers of the classic songs, keeping the spirit of their music alive.

Presley’s friend and music publicist, Keith Althum expressed his grief on Facebook after he received the news of his passing on Monday night. Althum thought of Presley as “one very real person in a sometimes very unreal world.”

“My dear old pal Reg Presley of The Troggs died today,” he said.

The groups famous hit “Wild Thing” was originally recorded by Jordan Christopher & The Wild Ones in 1965, but didn’t catch fire until the Troggs covered the anthem in 1966.

“Wild Thing” basic three-cord approach was a template for many rock bands at the time and became the one of the most covered records of the genre with both Bruce Springsteen and Jimi Hendrix making their on rendition of the hit.

Presley was said to have an interest in crop circles, UFO, and paranormal activity. His daughter, Karen confirmed the news the WENN saying, “He passed away peacefully at home and myself, my brother and our mother were with him. We’re absolutely heartbroken.”