Hillis' Baby Back Ribs

Talking with Cliff HIllis, winner of the Chili's jingle-off

by Patrick Rapa

There's bound to be some backlash when a young whippersnapper comes along thinking he can improve on a classic, but even old heads should go for local singer-songwriter Cliff Hillis' remake of the Chili's jingle. You know the one. In Hillis' hands, it's more indie power-pop than it is Spicealicious, with groovy background vocals (chirping "baby back") and a catchy chord progression. The 50-second ditty won the top prize in a national Chili's jingle-off. (You can hear it at myspace.com/chilis.) We caught up with Hillis, formerly of the band IKE, to find out if he gets a lifetime supply of Reggae Sunsplash margaritas or what.

City Paper: What made you want to enter the contest?

Cliff Hillis: After hearing a version by the Old 97's — whom I love — I figured what the hell and recorded my own ELO/Queen-inspired take on it. I used the original lyrics: "I want my baby back, baby back, baby back ribs, etc."

CP: Will they use it in commercials?

CH: They haven't told me yet exactly where they will be using the jingle, but have mentioned possibly using it for a cell phone ringtone, plus as the winner I get a trip to L.A. all expenses paid and get to meet with an A&R person from New West Records.

CP: Name your favorite non-baby back ribs Chili's food item.

CH: I actually am a fan of Chili's fare. I'd have to say I especially dig the southwestern eggrolls and maybe the "Awesome Blossom" onion thing. Anything deep fried is good in my book.

(pat@citypaper.net)