The Wacky Truth Behind Rock Star Riders

Did Iggy Pop really demand the Seven Dwarves in his concert rider?

We all know that rock stars can be a crazy bunch. We’ve all heard the story of the requests demanded in artist’s riders, and now a new book , “Excess All Areas,” details just a few of the more outrageous ones.

Early superstars were not known for being so demanding. For example Elvis Presley only wanted soft drinks and water, while The Beatles requested a black-and-white TV and some Coca-Cola. But eventually star’s egos got the better of them, and the requests got weirder. While everyone’s probably heard about Van Halen’s infamous 1982, 52-page rider, which demanded for “M&Ms (WARNING: ABSOLUTELY NO BROWN ONES”),” they aren’t the only ones who were demanding.

Among the crazier requests:

Eminem – In addition to booze like Bacardi and Hennessy, Em demanded Mountain Dew and Taco Bell, both of which were specifically asked to be imported from America.

Amy Winehouse – As you’d expect she asked for lots of booze, including Absolute vodka, Jack Daniels, and beer, as well as a variety of junk food, and Camel Light cigarettes. She also wanted a sign that read “Only Big Boys Can Enter.”

Elton John – The legendary singer is all about décor, requesting his dressing room be outfitted with a six-foot sofa, love seat, easy chairs, table lamps, floor standing lamps, coffee table and six food banquet tables, covered in white linen table cloths. He also wanted plants and flowers, with specific directions on what flowers could not be included.

Iggy Pop – The rocker probably had the most bizarre request – seven dwarves. He also asked for pizza to give away to the homeless, and pre-chopped broccoli, so it could be thrown away easily.

Slipknot – These rockers were apparently not gourmets, requesting cans of Chef Boyardee ravioli and Campbell’s soup. They also asked for Starburst fruit chews, baby wipes and 12 pairs of white tube socks.

James Brown – In addition to various drinks and foods, Brown wanted a hooded hair dryer, iron and ironing board, and an electric golf cart.

Motley Crue’s Nikki Sixx – The rocker asked for a boa constrictor that was at least 15 feet long, as well as a machete, a double bladed survival knife, and a sub machine gun with 500 9-mm rounds.

Stereophonics – The British band wanted a booty-shaped piñata filled with Cuban cigars and rum-infused chocolates, as well as a box of indoor fireworks.