Motörhead’s tour rider from May 2002 has resurfaced on social media, igniting debate among fans over the band’s backstage demands. While some consider the list modest compared to other rock acts, others argue that the provisions extended beyond the band to the hard-working crew behind the scenes.
The leaked document details a long list of essentials, particularly alcoholic beverages, requiring two liters of Jack Daniel’s, one liter of Jim Beam, one liter of “quality vodka,” and 120 cans or bottles of non-lite beer. Additionally, 24 cans or bottles of “strong dry apple cider” were requested, with all drinks expected to be chilled and accompanied by a “constant supply of clean ice cubes.”
Beyond alcohol, the rider outlined a variety of beverages, including:
- 24 500ml bottles of water (specifically requesting “no large bottles”)
- 72 cans of Coca-Cola Classic
- Six bottles of lemon or lime Gatorade
- Two liters of fresh unsweetened orange juice
- Two liters each of full-fat and low-fat milk
- Six small bottles of V8 vegetable juice
- Six cans of Red Bull energy drink
Their snack preferences included five packets of Reese’s peanut butter cups, two bags of Ruffles cheddar and sour cream crisps, a large bag of tortilla chips with salsa, and a selection of 12 assorted chocolate bars—explicitly excluding Hershey’s. A deli tray featuring assorted meats, cheeses, pickles, salad, mustard, mayonnaise, and other condiments was also required, along with fresh sliced bread (one white, one wheat), a cheese tray, crackers, fruit, nuts, and peanuts.
Additionally, the band requested two packs of Marlboro cigarettes and two packs of Benson & Hedges (for the UK) or Camel Filters (for the US). Other items included disposable cups, plates, utensils, and napkins.
The document emphasized that all listed catering, especially alcohol, must be provided unless discussed in advance with the tour manager to avoid “problems on the day of the show.”
Following the rider’s resurfacing in the Facebook group ‘This Day In Metal,’ fans were divided. Some defended the band, noting that the provisions covered the entire crew rather than just the performers. “Compared to a lot of other bands, this is really rather modest,” one user commented. Another pointed out that “99% of this is for the crew bus,” emphasizing that the team manages most backstage logistics.
Despite the mixed reactions, Motörhead’s tour rider appears relatively restrained compared to the extravagant demands of some rockstars, reaffirming their reputation for prioritizing their team as much as their music.
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