Short answer. The technical rider is the document where the artist requests the stage, sound, lights and backline for the show. The hospitality rider details dressing rooms, catering, hotels and transfers. Both are part of the contract and often cost as much as a significant share of the fee.
The technical rider
- Stage: size, height, roof and risers for drums or keyboards.
- Sound: front-of-house (FOH) console, monitor console, PA system and microphones.
- Monitoring: in-ear monitors (IEM) or floor wedges.
- Backline: instruments and amplifiers the artist does not travel with.
- Lights and video: design, screens and operators.
- Power: electrical load and backup generator.
The hospitality rider
Dressing rooms, catering, drinks, towels, security, number and category of hotel rooms, flight class and ground transport.
How to read it without surprises
- Ask for the riders before accepting the offer.
- Validate them with your sound and lighting supplier.
- Negotiate equivalents ("or similar") when the exact gear is not available in the country.
- Budget the counter-rider: what the venue or supplier can actually provide.
Keep reading: Artists for private events · Festival booking
FAQ
Can a rider be negotiated?
Yes, almost always, with technical equivalents and prior agreements with the artist's production team.
Who pays for the rider?
The event organizer, unless the offer is all-in.
