The Technical Rider: What It Is and Why Every Artist Needs One

A technical rider is a detailed document that specifies all of an artist's or band's technical and logistical needs for putting on a live show properly. It covers things like the sound system, lighting, stage layout, backline and hospitality requirements, among others. This document is essential to make sure the event runs smoothly and meets the expectations of both the artist and the audience.

One of the most common mistakes emerging artists make when they start playing shows is not having a technical and hospitality rider. This document might seem minor, but it's key to making sure your show sounds good, that you have the minimum conditions you need backstage, and above all that you project a professional image to promoters and venues.

The main components of a technical rider

A well-crafted technical rider usually includes the following sections:

• Cover page: artist or band name, date and document title.
• Summary: an index of the rider's sections for easy reference.
• Personnel: a list of musicians and crew members.
• Sound check: the time needed for setup and sound check.
• Stage: stage dimensions, riser layout, backdrop, etc.
• P.A./F.O.H. system: specs for the main sound system, including speakers, mixing console, processors, etc.
• Monitor system: details on stage monitors and their configuration.
• Backline: the instruments and equipment the artist brings and those the promoter must provide.
• Microphones and patch: a list of mics, channels, effects and stands needed.
• Monitor sends: the monitor configuration assigned to each member and their levels.
• Stage plot: a visual diagram of the stage layout.
• Lighting: lighting requirements, including type and number of lights, orientation, etc.
• Other needs: accommodation, dressing rooms, catering, security, transport, etc.
• Version history: a record of the document's versions and updates.
• Contact information: details to reach the artist or their manager and the technical crew.

Why the hospitality rider matters

The hospitality rider complements the technical rider and focuses on the artist's personal needs for their comfort before, during and after the show. It includes requests like specific food and drinks, fresh towels, transport, accommodation, security, access to private bathrooms, and more.

It might seem like a minor detail, but having a well-defined hospitality rider is key to ensuring you have the minimum conditions you need backstage and, above all, to projecting a professional image to promoters and venues.

Why is having a technical rider so crucial?

Putting together a technical rider doesn't just make the event's logistics easier — it also demonstrates professionalism and preparation on the artist's part. It lets promoters and technicians know the show's specific needs in advance, which reduces the chance of errors and misunderstandings.

Tips for putting together an effective technical rider

1. Be clear and concise

Avoid unnecessary jargon or ambiguous language. Remember that whoever reads your rider may not know you or have worked with you before, so the clearer you are, the better. For example, instead of writing "a good-quality sound system", specify: "a line-array P.A. system with a minimum of 5000W RMS, compatible with a digital X32 console or similar".

Also, present information in lists or tables where possible. This improves readability and speeds up comprehension — crucial when the production team has to review multiple riders in a short time.

2. Include specific details

The more detailed your rider, the smaller the margin for error. Specify not only what you need, but how you need it. For example:

• State the exact number of inputs and outputs for the audio system.
• If you use particular pedals or effects, mention their placement and connections.
• For lighting, indicate not just the type of lights you want (e.g. LED pars, moving heads), but also the moods you need for each song, whether you already have a pre-programmed show or whether you need a technician.

This level of detail not only ensures a show truer to your vision, it also conveys professionalism to promoters and technicians.

3. Adapt the document to the event

Not all shows are the same, so your rider shouldn't be either. If you're playing a small venue, there's no point asking for a stadium sound system — it just creates frustration and mistrust. Instead, create two versions of your rider:

• One for small venues or places with limited resources.
• A more complete one for festivals, big events or professional venues.

This flexibility shows you understand how the industry works and makes life easier for whoever books you.

4. Use professional tools

These days there are several websites and apps designed specifically for creating technical riders. Some of the most useful are:

1. Musicotec

Create technical riders easily with an intuitive drag-and-drop interface. It lets you save, edit and share riders online. Ideal for musicians who want a simple, free tool.

2. TecRider

Generate professional stage plots and riders in minutes. Its visual design makes communication with sound techs easier. Perfect for concerts and festivals.

3. Glissandoo

A management app for bands and groups. While it isn't rider-specific, it helps organise shows, setlists and rehearsals collaboratively.

These tools let you present your information in a visual, organised, professional way. And technicians will appreciate it far more than an improvised Word document.

5. Update it regularly

Your band's setup or your show can change over time: you switch guitarists, add a keyboard, upgrade your in-ear monitor system, etc. That's why it's essential to review and update the rider periodically.

A good practice is to add a small version history at the end of the document, noting the date of each update and the changes made. This helps promoters make sure they have the latest version.

It's also a good idea to keep the rider in the cloud and share it via a link (for example, in Google Drive or Dropbox), so you can update it easily without resending it every time.

Conclusion

Having a well-crafted technical and hospitality rider is essential for any artist who wants to deliver a professional, hitch-free show. This document not only ensures the show runs smoothly, it also reflects the artist's commitment and seriousness about their work.

One of the most common mistakes emerging artists make when they start playing shows is not having a technical and hospitality rider. It might seem minor, but it's key to making sure your show sounds good, that you have the minimum conditions you need backstage, and above all that you project a professional image to promoters and venues.