- The 20 Strangest Jobs That Once Existed – and Why They Disappeared - May 22, 2025
- 25 Festival Performances That Made Music History - May 22, 2025
- Short Novels: 20 Songs That Felt Like They Were Written About Your Life - May 22, 2025
1. Van Halen – No Brown M&Ms
Van Halen’s backstage rider is legendary for its peculiar demand: a bowl of M&Ms with all the brown ones meticulously removed. While this may sound like a diva move, it was actually a clever test. The band used it to ensure that venues were paying attention to the details of their technical requirements. If brown M&Ms were found in the bowl, it suggested that the venue hadn’t read the rider carefully, which could lead to more serious oversights. This quirky demand has become a classic example of how musicians use odd requests to gauge the professionalism of their hosts.
2. Beyoncé – Heavily Seasoned Chicken & Titanium Straws
The queen of pop, Beyoncé, is known for her attention to detail, and this extends to her backstage culinary preferences. She demands her chicken to be “heavily seasoned,” reflecting her love for flavors that pack a punch. Additionally, she insists on sipping her drinks through titanium or gold straws, adding a luxurious touch to her backstage experience. These demands underscore her commitment to quality and comfort, ensuring that her backstage environment matches her high standards on stage.
3. Adele – The Best European Lager
Adele, the soulful songstress, has a discerning taste for beverages. Her rider once included a request for “one bottle of the very best quality red wine” and “12 cold bottles of the best European lager.” This highlights her appreciation for quality drinks, perhaps as a way to relax and enjoy herself before a performance. Such requests are not uncommon among artists who seek comfort and a touch of indulgence in their backstage setting.
4. Iggy Pop – Seven Dwarfs
Iggy Pop, the godfather of punk, has a reputation for being eccentric, and his backstage demands reflect that. He once asked for a crew of seven dwarfs to be present backstage. Although the reasoning behind this whimsical request remains a mystery, it certainly adds to his legendary persona. Such requests often mirror an artist’s personality, bringing a unique atmosphere to their performances.
5. Rihanna – Hard-Boiled Eggs… but Only a Few
Rihanna’s backstage rider included a curious request for five hard-boiled eggs, though she would only consume three. The remaining eggs’ fate remains unknown. This peculiar demand could be a dietary preference or simply a quirky habit. Artists often have specific food requests that cater to their unique tastes and routines while on tour.
6. Mariah Carey – Kittens & Doves
Mariah Carey, known for her diva-like demeanor, once requested 20 white kittens and 100 white doves for a Christmas event. This extravagant demand showcases her love for animals and her desire to create a magical, whimsical atmosphere. Such requests can often be seen as a reflection of an artist’s personality and their need for comfort and joy in their surroundings.
7. Prince – A Physician to Administer a Vitamin B12 Shot
The late Prince was known for his unique approach to health and wellness. He required a personal physician to give him a vitamin B12 injection before every performance. This demand illustrates the importance he placed on his health, ensuring he was in peak condition for his fans. Such backstage requirements are common among artists who prioritize their well-being, especially when performing regularly.
8. Kanye West – Cylindrical Vases with White Roses Only
Kanye West, the often-controversial music mogul, has very specific aesthetic preferences. He insists on having only cylindrical vases filled with white roses in his backstage area. This demand reflects his artistic vision and desire for a particular ambiance during performances. Artists like Kanye often extend their unique tastes beyond music, influencing every aspect of their environment.
9. Paul McCartney – No Animal-Based Furnishings
Paul McCartney, the legendary Beatle, is a staunch advocate for animal rights and veganism. His rider includes a request for no leather or animal-based furnishings backstage. This aligns with his personal beliefs and sets a standard for the venues that host him. Such demands from artists can influence broader discussions about ethics and sustainability in the music industry.
10. Lady Gaga – A Mannequin with Pink Pubic Hair
Lady Gaga is renowned for her avant-garde style, and this extends to her backstage demands. She reportedly requested a mannequin with pink pubic hair, a demand that raises eyebrows and sparks curiosity. While the reasoning is unclear, it exemplifies her artistic flair and willingness to embrace the bizarre. Such unique requests often reflect the personalities of artists and their desire to stand out in a crowded industry.
11. Justin Timberlake – Doorknobs Must Be Disinfected Every Two Hours
Justin Timberlake, known for his meticulous nature, especially regarding hygiene, requires that doorknobs be disinfected every two hours. This demand underscores the importance many artists place on cleanliness, particularly when they are in contact with numerous people and environments during tours. It highlights the meticulous care artists take to ensure their backstage area is a sanctuary.
12. Madonna – A Brand-New Toilet Seat Every Show
Madonna, the iconic Queen of Pop, is known for her high standards, and one of her most unusual demands is for a brand-new toilet seat at every venue. This request underscores her commitment to hygiene and comfort, ensuring she has a clean and private space to prepare for her performances. Such demands are not uncommon among high-profile artists who prioritize their comfort and well-being.
13. Drake – Seven Fresh Pairs of Boxers Every Show
Drake’s unique backstage requirement involves having seven brand-new pairs of Calvin Klein boxers for each show. This demand reflects his attention to personal hygiene and comfort, ensuring he maintains a fresh appearance during performances. Such specific requests are often a part of an artist’s routine, helping them feel at ease before taking the stage.
14. Cher – A Room Just for Her Wigs
Cher, the legendary singer and actress, has an extensive collection of wigs and requires a separate room just for them backstage. This demand highlights the importance of her image and the lengths she goes to maintain her iconic look. Artists often have unique requirements that reflect their personal style and the effort they put into their performances.
15. Katy Perry – Staff Can’t Look at Her
Katy Perry has been known to request that staff avoid making eye contact with her while she is backstage. This peculiar demand may stem from her desire for privacy and focus before going on stage. Such requests are indicative of the pressures artists face and their need to create a specific atmosphere that allows them to perform at their best.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
