13 Rock And Metal Stars Notorious For Their Backstage Demands
Backstage life has always been part of rock mythology, where larger-than-life personalities extend far beyond the music itself.
Some riders read like comedy scripts, calling for specific snacks, room setup, or unusual requests, and strange décor requests that leave crews scrambling.
These infamous backstage requirements reveal the eccentric side of rock and metal stardom, and how far venues will go to keep the show running smoothly.
Disclaimer: Information in this article is presented for general informational and entertainment purposes and is not legal, financial, or professional advice.
Tour riders vary by era, venue, and production needs, and publicly discussed excerpts or anecdotes may not reflect current touring requirements for any artist.
1. Van Halen
Ever wonder if rock stars actually read contracts?
Van Halen’s famous M&M clause wasn’t about being picky eaters. The band demanded a bowl of M&Ms with all brown ones removed, hidden deep in their technical rider to test if promoters read the safety requirements.
If brown M&Ms appeared backstage, the band knew venue staff hadn’t carefully reviewed the complex stage setup instructions. This clever trick helped prevent dangerous equipment failures during shows with elaborate pyrotechnics and rigging.
2. AC/DC
Thunderstruck by their demands, venues scrambled to meet AC/DC’s specific requirements. A published excerpt of an AC/DC rider includes a request for oxygen tanks and masks on site.
Beyond technical needs, the band wanted their dressing rooms stocked with specific comfort items.
Their attention to detail extended to every aspect of backstage life, from food quality to room arrangements. Creating the perfect pre-show environment helped these rock titans deliver electrifying performances night after night, proving that preparation matters as much as talent.
3. Aerosmith
Backstage setups of unimaginable detail can be found by following the specific requirements of Aerosmith’s tour rider.
A published Aerosmith rider is known for detailed hospitality notes, including a ‘V.I.P. Guest Room’ styled ‘East Indian Style’ and a ‘no pressed meats’ note.
Perfectly arranged environments were required by Steven Tyler and the crew before stepping onstage, making their preparation ritual legendary in the music industry.
Particular foods, beverages, and even furniture arrangements were included in their comprehensive demands.
Perfectionism might run in the band’s DNA, because every detail mattered when creating their ideal pre-show atmosphere for maximum performance energy.
4. Guns N’ Roses
Welcome to the jungle of backstage chaos!
Guns N’ Roses became infamous for their demanding attitudes and specific requirements during their peak years.
Axl Rose’s reputation for being particular about everything from room setup to show timing became rock legend. The band’s requests sometimes included unusual items and very specific brand preferences that kept venue staff constantly busy.
Their rock-and-roll lifestyle translated into elaborate backstage needs that matched their explosive stage presence perfectly.
5. Kiss
Elaborate backstage demands for Kiss proved to be even more intensive than the signature makeup seen by audiences. Massive amounts of space were required for costume changes, makeup application, and various theatrical props.
Dedicated preparation areas with perfect lighting and mirrors everywhere were demanded for the iconic face paint alone.
Transformation from regular guys into larger-than-life characters needed serious backstage real estate.
A published KISS rider mentions practical backstage preferences such as a driver ‘professional in appearance’ and specific snack choices.
6. Metallica
Nothing else matters except getting every detail right for these metal masters.
Metallica’s backstage requirements evolved from simple beginnings to comprehensive documents covering technical and personal needs. James Hetfield and crew needed specific equipment for warming up and maintaining their intense performance energy throughout marathon shows.
Their rider included particular food options, workout equipment, and quiet spaces for pre-show focus. Creating the perfect mental and physical state before unleashing heavy metal fury required careful planning and attention to every comfort detail.
7. Ozzy Osbourne
Big requests come with long touring histories when the Prince of Darkness comes to town!
Ozzy’s backstage demands reflected his unique personality and decades of touring experience. From specific comfort items to particular foods, the legendary frontman knew exactly what helped him deliver unforgettable performances night after night.
His requirements also included safety measures and support staff to ensure everything ran smoothly. After years on the road, Ozzy understood that proper backstage preparation made the difference between good shows and legendary ones.
8. Black Sabbath
Paranoid about details, these metal pioneers set high standards for backstage preparation.
Requirements for Black Sabbath covered everything from technical specifications to personal comfort needs.
Tony Iommi’s guitar setup alone required careful attention, while the entire band needed proper spaces for preparation and relaxation between sets.
Decades of experience taught these musicians exactly what worked best for delivering powerful performances. Creating the right atmosphere backstage helped these legends maintain the dark, heavy energy that made these men icons of heavy metal music.
9. Rush
Precision defined everything about Rush, from Neil Peart’s drum solos to backstage organization.
A published Rush rider excerpt focused heavily on hospitality planning, including desserts and fruit presentation notes. Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Peart needed specific equipment setups and quiet preparation spaces for their intricate performances that demanded absolute focus and mental clarity.
Their rider reflected intelligence and thoughtfulness rather than excess.
Creating optimal conditions for performing challenging music meant every detail mattered, from lighting to acoustics to personal comfort items that helped maintain concentration.
10. Def Leppard
Pour some sugar on these very specific backstage requests!
Precise requirements for comfort and performance preparation were included in a rider that evolved through decades of touring for Def Leppard.
Particular setups were needed by the British rockers to accommodate an elaborate stage show and maintain energy throughout lengthy concerts. Attention to detail ensured every band member could perform at peak levels, delivering the anthemic rock hits fans traveled miles to experience.
Published Def Leppard rider excerpt included concerns about radio-frequency conflicts and requested certain devices be switched off near the stage area.
11. Pantera
Cowboys brought fierce demands matching an aggressive sound. Backstage requirements for Pantera reflected a no-nonsense approach to heavy metal music.
Specific gear for crushing performances was needed by Dimebag Darrell and the crew, plus spaces that matched intense, focused energy before taking the stage.
Function was prioritized over fancy extras in a rider focusing on what actually helped deliver powerful shows.
Creating the right pre-show environment meant having everything in place so these metal warriors could unleash a signature groove-driven heaviness without any distractions or delays.
12. Poison
Every rose has its thorn, and every glam band has its demands!
Poison’s backstage needs included plenty of space for their signature look – big hair, makeup, and flashy costumes required serious preparation time.
Bret Michaels and company needed mirrors, styling products, and wardrobe areas that rivaled Hollywood dressing rooms. Their glam metal image wasn’t accidental; it took careful planning and the right backstage setup to create those iconic looks.
Transforming into larger-than-life rock stars meant having everything perfectly arranged before every single show on their tours.
13. Bon Jovi
Living on a prayer that venues could meet all requirements!
Backstage riders for Bon Jovi grew more comprehensive as arena rock success expanded worldwide. Specific arrangements were needed by Jon Bon Jovi and the band for high-energy performances that kept audiences on their feet for hours.
Demands balanced practical needs with comfort items that helped maintain stamina during grueling tour schedules.
Proper backstage preparation meant the difference between delivering good performances and creating those magical concert moments that fans remember forever, making every detail absolutely essential.
