Backline

Backline refers to the musical equipment positioned at the back of the stage — amplifiers, drum kits, keyboards, bass rigs, and related gear. The term comes from the literal line of equipment behind the performers, as opposed to the front-of-house PA system that faces the audience.

What counts as backline?

Guitar and bass amplifiers and cabinets, drum kits (sometimes minus "breakables" like cymbals, snare, and kick pedal — which artists usually carry), keyboard rigs, DJ equipment, pedalboards, DI boxes, and sometimes instrument-specific monitors. Microphones, the PA system, and front-of-house gear are generally not considered backline.

Carried vs. provided backline

On bus tours, artists typically carry their own backline — the gear travels in the truck alongside lighting and sound equipment. On fly dates, festival appearances, or smaller tours without a truck, backline is rented locally or provided by the venue. The technical rider specifies what the artist carries and what needs to be provided, and the production manager or TM confirms this during the advance.

Backline at festivals

Festival backline gets complicated. Multiple acts share stages with tight changeover windows, which means backline coordination between stage managers, production managers, and individual artists' crews. Some festivals provide a standard backline kit; others expect artists to bring or rent their own. The stage plot and rider need to be crystal clear about what's expected.

Backline rental

When an artist can't carry their gear, local backline companies provide rental equipment. Tour managers or production managers spec the rental against the technical rider, and the rental company delivers, sets up, and sometimes provides a tech. Backline rental costs are a significant line item on fly date budgets.