Angelina Jolie’s Unexpected Link to The Troggs’ Classic ‘Wild Thing’
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
When you think of iconic 1960s hits, Wild Thing by The Troggs is sure to come to mind. Released in 1966, this raw, catchy tune not only became a defining anthem of the era but is also regarded by many as a proto-punk trailblazer. Its gritty simplicity and infectious chorus have ensured its lasting legacy in rock history. Yet, behind this classic lies a fascinating story—and a surprising connection to Hollywood star Angelina Jolie.
The Origins of Wild Thing: More Than Just The Troggs
While The Troggs’ version is the most famous, few realize that Wild Thing was not originally theirs. The song was penned by American songwriter Chip Taylor, marking his first major hit. However, the initial recording came from a New York-based band called The Wild Ones in 1965—and it failed to chart.
The Wild Ones were notable as the house band of Arthur, a nightclub owned by Sybil Burton, former wife of legendary actor Richard Burton. Intriguingly, Richard Burton had quickly married the band’s lead singer, Jordan Christopher, after just a week of meeting. The Wild Ones approached Taylor for a single, and he delivered Wild Thing swiftly, creating the now-famous chorus in mere minutes. Taylor later described the song’s vibe as “sexual-kind-of-feeling.”
Despite the band’s enthusiasm and Taylor’s involvement—he even played tambourine on the demo—the Wild Ones’ version was commercially unsuccessful. Lead vocalist Chuck Alden would later regret not mimicking Taylor’s original style more closely.
How The Troggs Made It a Classic
The Wild Ones’ version contained a distinctive solo performed by the recording engineer using hand-whistling. The Troggs, introduced to the song by their manager Larry Page, found it “so weird and unusual” that they decided to record it in April 1966. They cleverly recreated the hand-whistle solo using an ocarina, adding to the track’s unique character.
Due to a rare distribution dispute, The Troggs’ Wild Thing was released simultaneously on two rival labels, Atco and Fontana Records. Billboard combined sales from both, making it the only single to top the charts for two companies at the same time.
The Hollywood Connection: Angelina Jolie’s Family Tie
So where does Angelina Jolie enter this rock ’n’ roll saga? The link comes through the song’s writer, Chip Taylor—whose birth name is James Wesley Voight. He is the younger brother of Hollywood legend Jon Voight, making him Angelina Jolie’s uncle. Jolie’s full name is Angelina Jolie Voight, though she has never publicly commented on the song.
This unusual familial tie creates a quirky crossover between classic rock history and Hollywood royalty. A hit song that helped define the 1960s and a modern A-list star are connected by blood—a testament to the surprising intersections of entertainment worlds.
A Legacy That Continues
Wild Thing remains a cultural touchstone decades after its release, and now its story adds an intriguing layer to Angelina Jolie’s background. While the actress is best known for her humanitarian work and iconic film roles, this odd musical footnote ties her to a seminal moment in music history—one that might just surprise fans of both rock and Hollywood.
In the end, Wild Thing isn’t just a groovy 60s anthem; it’s also part of a fascinating family story that bridges generations and genres in unexpected ways.
