Backline: what is it?

Amplifiers, drum kit, keyboard stands: that is backline. Here is what you bring yourself, what you ask from the venue, and how to put it in your rider.

What is backline?

Backline is the instrument gear on stage: amplifiers, drum kit, keyboard stands and related items. It’s not the PA or monitoring; it’s what you need to make your instrument sound. Who provides what is agreed in advance and written down in your rider.

Bring your own or from the house?

There are two flavours. You bring your own backline (you know exactly how it sounds and feels), or you ask the venue to provide it (handy for fly dates or tight vans). Often it’s a mix: your own guitars and pedals, but a drum kit or bass amp from the house.

Examples of backline

• Amplifiers: guitar and bass amps, with brand and model if you have a preference.
• Drum kit: shells, hardware, stool and sometimes specific sizes.
• Keys: stands (X or table style), a stool, and power in the right place.
• Small items: extra stands, a guitar stand, adapters.

Agree in advance

If you ask the venue for backline, be specific but reasonable: name a brand and model you like, with an alternative. Ask for a backup on crucial parts, and say whether you bring your own tech to set it up.

Put it in your rider

In your technical rider, note per item whether you bring it or want it from the house, with brand/model where it matters. That way the venue knows exactly what to arrange and you avoid surprises at load-in. Also draw a clear stage plot so the backline ends up in the right place.

Read next: How to make a technical rider → · How to make a stage plot →