How A Remix of Elvis Presley Became A Worldwide Hit
Here’s how a remix of a lesser-known song by Elvis Presley became an international hit. In 1968, Elvis Presley recorded “A Little Less Conversation” for his 28th feature film. The single only peaked at number 69 in the US and failed to chart in the UK. Over 30 years later, Nike was producing an ad for the 2002 World Cup and needed a song. “Ocean’s Eleven” was in theaters where members of Nike’s ad agency heard the track and got the idea to use it for their commercial. The cost? $200,000 – down from the initial quote of $1.5 million. Nike then hired Dutch musician Tom Holkenborg, also known as Junkie XL, to produce a remix. But what version did he use? In 1968, Elvis had recorded 16 takes of the song. With take 2 not being released until 30 years later. It would be this version that is heard in “Ocean’s Eleven,” was remixed by Holkenborg, and at the request of the Presley estate, released under the name JXL, presumably to keep the word “junkie” from appearing on the release. Featuring “A Little Less Conversation” by Elvis Presley remixed by Tom Holkenborg / Junkie XL / JXL.