The Difference Between a Band Buy-Out and a Rider

The Difference Between a Band Buy-Out and a Rider The Difference Between a Band Buy-Out and a Rider A music promoter sometimes adds a band buy-out provision to a contract for a show in lieu of providing a certain service for the musicians. Buy-outs at shows are often used in place of the rider, but sometimes musician buy-outs are used for things like accommodation as well. When booking a concert or gig, the rider is a standard contract item. Other than actually playing on stage, it is usually musicians favorite part of the show. Promoters arent so crazy about riders, because its not a fixed cost, and can vary greatly from one musician to another. Thats why a lot of promoters prefer buy-out provisions instead. How Riders and Buy-Outs Differ Heres how riders and buy-outs tend to differ. Costs can vary with riders. With a rider, the amount a promoter will cover can vary from providing drinks, to covering the costs of makeup artists, meals, snacks and drinks for the band and its entire entourage. Most show promoters are savvy enough to negotiate the terms of the rider before the show, to make sure its clear that everyone is on the same page, and what the musicians expect. Obviously, the more popular musicians who draw in large crowds are in a better position to make greater demands. A rider is more specific. You can note preferences, dietary or otherwise, clearly spelled out with specific information in a rider. If a band member wants a vegetarian meal or has a food allergy, that would be covered under the rider. Riders can specify things beyond basic food and beverage. This is where costs can pile up for the show promoters. Dressing rooms, including furniture preferences, flowers, WiFi access and other comforts could be included. Needless to say, not every musician is really in the position to demand an elaborate rider, but promoters have to decide whether the ones who bring in a lot of ticket sales are worth the variable costs to keep them happy. A buy-out arrangement is more work for promoters. This is a way to try to keep performers fed and soothed. Instead of actually buying whatever food, drink, and other amenities musicians demand, the buy-out is a lump sum paid to the band so they can buy their own stuff. Sometimes, musicians prefer this kind of arrangement, because they can get exactly what they want. Buy-outs are usually a better deal for promoters. If theyre frugal, performers might end up spending less on food and drinks than the promoter paid them for those costs. It takes away the headache of having to shop for and coordinate all the things the band wants, and pay a fixed amount to let the band handle the purchases on their own. With a buy-out, promoters dont have to worry about the band finding fault with whats provided. In many cases, the band is happy to have a gig that pays them, never mind demanding fresh flowers or designer drinks. But knowing what a promoters standard contract usually includes is a good idea. If there are things the promoter would provide other bands, it doesnt hurt to ask. Just make sure youre not negotiating your way out of a gig by being too fussy. If youre a musician, be sure to discuss this with your manager before signing a contract with them so they can do negotiations on your behalf.