How To Create Your DJ Rider
A DJ or artist rider is an additional contract which stipulates the needs and requirements of the DJ when being booked for a performance.
Most musical performance agreements will have two parts, the basic contract and the rider. The DJ rider supports the contract between the DJ and the venue or promoter and covers everything from the DJ's sound and equipment requirements, stage set up, transportation to and from the venue, drinks and catering and any other specific backstage requests.
As every DJ will have varying and different needs, expectations and levels of bargaining power, a rider is therefore a clear and concise way to ensure that as a DJ, all your needs and requirements are met.
When starting out as a DJ, a rider will probably not be applicable straight away, but as you begin to establish a name for yourself and start to make a living as a professional DJ, the rider will become an important document.
One of the main requirements as a DJ that would need to be outlined on the would be your sound, equipment and set up requirements. You should be asking for your ideal setup, including turntables, CDJ's, mixers, micas, monitors etc. Be specific and state model makes and numbers. The club can always say no, and you may settle for something else, but it is best to initially try for the best set up possible. If you do decide to bring your own equipment, be sure to specify that the club's insurance will cover any damage to any gear you do bring.
Stage set up and furnishings are another vital section of the DJ rider, and again it is crucial to be very specific. Specify sizes including lengths and height of any tables and stands that you may need and be sure to include anything additional such as lamps, fans etc.
Specific drink or catering requirements, accommodation and transportation (if the gig is in another town or country) and any backstage and guest list requirements would make up the rest of the rider.
Whether it be yourself or your management writing up the rider, it is important to be clear, exact and technically specific . There is no need for fancy language or legal jargon, it is far better to be simple and straightforward so as to avoid any misunderstanding.
When writing up a rider, it is important to make sure your needs are met, but be aware that if you are too demanding, you may risk losing the deal completely. You may have heard stories of outrageous demands from world famous DJ's, but bear in mind, if you're making demands like these on your rider, your shows had better be extremely profitable!