Back in Time Today
Explore the most outrageous backstage demands made by legendary rock stars. These eccentric requests reveal both the personalities and the unique rock culture that thrives behind the scenes.
1. Van Halen – “No Brown M&M’s” (1980s)
In the 1980s, Van Halen’s contract included a peculiar demand: a bowl of M&M’s with all the brown ones meticulously removed. This was more than a whimsical preference; it served as a clever test for concert promoters. If this detail was overlooked, it indicated potential negligence in safety checks. Such a small oversight could lead to significant issues in staging their spectacular performances. This quirky clause exemplified the band’s commitment to excellence and attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of their shows met their rigorous standards.
2. Mariah Carey – 20 White Puppies (2016)
Amidst the glamour and glitz of her 2016 Christmas show, Mariah Carey requested 20 white puppies to frolic around her backstage area. These adorable furballs were not permanent additions to her entourage but rather temporary stress-relievers. After providing the songstress with much-needed cuddles, the puppies were safely returned. This whimsical demand highlighted her penchant for extravagance and the soothing effect of animal companionship in high-stakes environments.
3. Iggy Pop – A Raw Steak & Superglue (1970s)
In the wild world of 1970s punk rock, Iggy Pop’s backstage requests stood out for their raw audacity. He demanded a fresh T-bone steak and a tube of superglue before each performance. While the steak was meant to be hurled into the audience, the superglue served a more practical purpose: repairing his boots mid-show. This eccentric combination of items mirrored Iggy’s unpredictable stage presence and the chaotic energy that defined his performances.
4. Madonna – Only Green Rooms (2008)
Madonna’s 2008 tour demands included an unusual specification: her dressing room walls had to be painted green, specifically RAL 6018. The iconic performer believed this vibrant hue amplified her energy and inspired creativity. This demand underscored her dedication to creating an environment conducive to her artistic expression. Transforming ordinary spaces into personal sanctuaries, Madonna curated settings that aligned with her dynamic persona and artistic vision.
5. Guns N’ Roses – A “Dinosaur Bone” (1991)
In 1991, Axl Rose of Guns N’ Roses made an unusual request for a real dinosaur bone as part of the band’s rider. Surprisingly, the concert promoter delivered, presenting a fossilized mammoth bone sourced from a museum. This demand highlighted Axl’s flair for the dramatic and an intense passion for the extraordinary. The bone became a symbol of the band’s larger-than-life image and their penchant for pushing the boundaries of rock star excess.
6. Beyoncé – Humidifiers & Honey (2013)
Beyoncé’s 2013 tour rider was all about safeguarding her most precious asset: her voice. Her backstage requirements included 14 humidifiers to maintain optimal air moisture, along with raw honey sourced from a specific Italian farm. These demands were non-negotiable, ensuring her vocal cords remained protected and primed for performance. Such meticulous attention to detail underscored her commitment to excellence and vocal health, setting a standard for professional care in the music industry.
7. The Rolling Stones – A Live Snake (1969)
During their 1969 tour, The Rolling Stones took rock ‘n’ roll extravagance to new heights with Mick Jagger’s demand for a live python in his dressing room. Chaos ensued when the snake escaped, causing a backstage frenzy. This wild request epitomized the band’s unpredictable nature and legendary antics, weaving itself into the mythos of rock history. The episode highlighted the thrilling uncertainty that accompanied their groundbreaking performances.
8. Justin Bieber – A Private Foosball Champion (2016)
To get in the zone before performances, Justin Bieber’s 2016 tour rider included an unusual detail: a professional foosball player ready to challenge him backstage. This quirky demand showcased his competitive spirit and need for focused relaxation prior to taking the stage. Engaging in these intense matches offered a personal touch to his pre-show rituals, balancing the pressures of fame with playful competition.
9. Lady Gaga – An “Emergency UFO Kit” (2010)
Embracing her fascination with the extraterrestrial, Lady Gaga’s 2010 tour rider included a UFO abduction emergency kit. Complete with a tinfoil hat, crystals, and a map of Area 51, this quirky demand reflected her whimsical personality and love for the unusual. Her imaginative request added an air of mystery and fun to the backstage atmosphere, embodying the creative spirit that defines her artistry.
10. Kanye West – A Gold-Plated Toilet (2013)
In true Kanye West fashion, his 2013 tour demands included a lavish touch: a 24-karat gold-plated toilet seat. This luxurious request epitomized his larger-than-life persona and penchant for opulence. Although most venues resorted to gold foil instead, the demand highlighted his desire for extravagance and comfort. The bold statement mirrored Kanye’s approach to life and artistry, blurring the lines between reality and spectacle.
11. Elvis Presley – Police Escort for His Sandwich (1970s)
Elvis Presley’s love for the legendary Fool’s Gold Loaf sandwich knew no bounds. In the 1970s, he would have this decadent treat flown in from Colorado with a full police escort. At an estimated cost of $15,000 per sandwich, this extravagant demand encapsulated his larger-than-life status and unique tastes. The sandwich, laden with peanut butter, bacon, and jelly, became a symbol of his indulgent lifestyle.
12. Ariana Grande – Cloud Machine & 17 White Towels (2019)
Ariana Grande’s 2019 tour rider reflected her ultra-specific preferences, requiring a cloud humidifier, 17 white towels, and strict no eye-contact rules from staff. This meticulous demand illustrated her attention to detail and quest for a perfectly curated environment. Such requirements contributed to her diva reputation, while also ensuring she remained comfortable and focused before hitting the stage. Her unique style blended opulence with precision.