Tour Rider
Contract addendum specifying technical, hospitality, and security requirements for live performances.
Definition
A tour rider is an attachment to performance contracts detailing everything required for a show beyond the basic performance fee. Technical riders specify stage dimensions, sound and lighting requirements, and backline equipment. Hospitality riders detail dressing room provisions, catering, and accommodation standards.
Riders range from simple one-page documents for club acts to extensive hundred-page specifications for arena tours. They serve as operational blueprints ensuring consistent production quality across all tour dates.
Why It Matters
Comprehensive riders prevent day-of-show surprises that compromise performance quality or artist wellbeing. They establish clear expectations and responsibilities, reducing conflicts between artists and promoters.
Venues and promoters use riders to calculate true event costs beyond the performance fee, including equipment rentals, staffing, and hospitality expenses.
Examples in Practice
A touring rock band's technical rider specifies exact amplifier models, drum kit configuration, and monitor mix requirements that their sound engineer needs to deliver consistent shows.
A demanding hospitality rider requiring specific bottled water brands and room temperature ranges becomes notorious after the artist cancels a show when requirements aren't met.
A promoter reviews a technical rider and realizes the specified lighting rig exceeds the venue's electrical capacity, negotiating modifications before contracts are signed.