Going through the list of backstage riders on The Smoking Gun’s website, it is evident that a lot of the artists and groups’ demands are excessive to the point of being ridiculous. Although they are artists, which means that they need numerous things including a comfortable dressing room with the right amount of foods and drinks, they should still realize the difference between excessive and just right. Money is not of issue even if they argue that they can buy the services they want and need because it is the time and effort of the people around them that are at stake.
One of interesting contract riders in the list is that of Britney Spears who requests an unlisted outgoing only telephone line, which, if published, will cost a $5000 fine. It was also noted that her dressing room should have an apartment feel to it. Compared to other divas in the list, however, Britney Spears’ catering needs can be considered reasonable and appropriate.
The British alternative band Coldplay also has some requests that are too questionable. For instance, they did not want any beers from the United States, Stella Artois, or chardonnay. They also require 60 bath sized towels for their needs, although it was not indicated if this request is for the band only or for the whole crew. They also require a stage and exact measurements are stated in the document.
There were other notable artists on the list but Mandy Moore, whose name appeared as new on the list, deserves credit because among all of those listed, she had the fewest and simplest requests. She did not have any number of towels, color of tablecloths, special flower arrangements, or pets requested. Instead, her list only consisted of seven simple items of foods and drinks.
