R.I.P. Reg.

Reg Presley, who fronted The Troggs for more than 45 years, and sang lead on their '60s classic "Wild Thing" died earlier today (Monday) at his home in England. He was 71, though he'd claimed to be two years younger. Presley had retired from the band at the end of 2011, after being diagnosed with lung cancer. He'd also suffered small small strokes in the last few years.

While less visible in recent years than many of their '60s chart rivals, Presley brought The Troggs to the U.S. in July 2000, to take part in a PBS concert special. At the taping, he recalled how someone in the office of their record company had discovered songwriter Chip Taylor's demo of the song -- and even though it was performed as a just a solo on guitar, Presley knew the song had potential.