Riders, the Secret to Keep the Show Running Without Drama

Hello, EastPro Friends!

Behind the grandeur of a music show or concert with dazzling stage lights, clear sound, and artists performing at their best, there is one crucial element that helps everything run smoothly. Do you know what it is?

Yes, the answer is riders.

Although often seen as trivial or merely “special requests,” riders are actually the secret weapon of every event organizer to ensure the show runs without drama. Let’s get to know more about talent riders, from their definition, types, to unique artist riders that will make you shake your head in disbelief!

What Are Riders?

Riders are a list of requests or special requirements from talents or artists who perform at an event. Usually, riders are part of the contract that must be fulfilled by the event organizer. Riders can include requests for food, drinks, backstage setup, or technical needs during the performance.

The purpose of riders is to ensure the talent performs in their best condition, both physically and mentally. Riders do not mean the artist is spoiled or fussy, friends, it is about comfort and delivering the best performance.

Types of Talent Riders

In the world of music concerts or festival events, riders are usually divided into several types:

1. Hospitality Riders

Contain requests related to personal comfort, such as:

• Food and drinks
• Dressing room with a specific color of sofa
• Access to a private toilet
• Hotel with special facilities

2. Technical Riders

These relate to the technical side of the artist’s performance:

• Number and type of microphones
• Lighting and sound system setup
• Audio monitors on stage
• Additional musical instruments

3. Security Riders

This is important for maintaining the privacy and safety of the artist:

• Escort service to and from the venue
• No selfies allowed backstage
• Restricted access to the dressing room

All types of riders must be communicated clearly from the beginning so there are no misunderstandings on the event day. If you are also in the EO business, you must be fully prepared for all these details.

Why Are Riders So Important?

Imagine a big artist performing but the microphone is not working properly, or they cannot find their favorite drink before going on stage. That can ruin their mood and lower the quality of the performance, right?

That is why talent riders are extremely important because they:

• Help talents perform with confidence and comfort
• Keep the event flow in line with the rundown
• Prevent drama or complaints from artist management
• Increase the professionalism of the EO in the eyes of clients and performers

EO Must Be 100% Ready to Handle Talent Riders

EastPro friends, event organizer crews do not only think about the rundown and stage setup, but must also be skilled at handling riders. From negotiating requests, checking availability, to executing everything on the event day, everything must be well-organized.

So, if you want to hold a large-scale event such as a music show, product launch, or festival event, it is best to work with an EO that is experienced and understands these details.

Instead of getting overwhelmed, better leave it to the experts, right?

EastPro, as the best event organizer in Jakarta and a trusted MICE event organizer, has extensive experience in handling concerts, shows, music festivals, and major events for various companies. EastPro is ready to assist you from start to finish, including handling artist riders, which can often be a big challenge.

With a creative and innovative team, EastPro Event Organizer will make your event not only successful but also unforgettable!

Examples of Riders

Not all artist riders are complicated, friends. Relax. Some common requests are actually simple and very manageable:

• Room-temperature mineral water
• Healthy snacks (sliced fruits, nuts, granola)
• A room with a large mirror
• Soundcheck one hour before performance
• Stage crew assistants

All of these requests actually have one purpose: to make the performer comfortable, so they can deliver their best show.

Unique Artist Riders

Now this is the fun part, because some artists have unique riders!

• Yura Yunita: sliced galangal, eaten before performing to soothe the throat.
• Tulus: local specialty food in every city, except goat and shrimp.
• Sheila on 7: safety riders including medical staff, fire department, and an ambulance.
• Denny Caknan: this dangdut singer always asks for hot ginger tea in a thermos.
• Ghea Indrawari: chocolate-flavored Chiki Balls. She sometimes also requests Japanese Pocky snacks.

And it is not just Indonesian artists, some international artists also have unique riders that once caused a stir or required extra effort from EOs. Here are some examples:

• Beyoncé: requested a personal toilet seat that has never been used by anyone else!
• Lady Gaga: her riders include a mannequin doll with pink hair in the dressing room.

Even though these requests may seem eccentric, for these artists, comfort is part of delivering their best performance. And as an EO, your job is to make all of that a reality.

Riders = A Key to Success Often Underestimated

EastPro friends, sometimes people think riders are excessive. But in reality, riders are an essential part of event management. Especially for music festivals or large concerts, where every detail can affect the overall show.

So, if you are planning to hold a major event, do not underestimate riders. Make sure all talent needs are ready, and work with an EO team that truly understands how to handle it.

Let’s Create Drama-Free Events with EastPro!

So friends, instead of letting your event fall apart because of poorly managed riders, it is better to trust it to a team of experts.

EastPro, as the best EO in Jakarta, has everything you need: experience, creativity, and exceptional execution skills.

Let’s create your event together with EastPro Event Organizer and experience the difference of an event handled professionally!