Dierks Bentley has spent more than 20 years on the road, ever since his self-titled debut album was released in 2003. In the more than two decades since then, the Arizona native has realized what he does -- and does not -- need before every show.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Every touring artist has what's called a rider, which is basically their requirements for amenities they need. While some can get quite extravagant, including Mariah Carey reportedly needing a Rolls Royce and 15-person entourage, Bentley only requires one thing, and it's pretty simple.
"Fans. That's about all I really care about is having people there to sing for," the singer tells Taste of Country.
Still, while we wouldn't go so far as calling them demands, there are a few more things Bentley enjoys having available to him before he takes the stage.
"Row 94 whiskey, ice," Bentley says, referring to his own whiskey. "We're pretty low-key ... I actually just talked to my tour manager yesterday and I said, 'Make sure we go through the rider that we are sending out.'"
Bentley goes on to say he likes to keep it both "super-streamlined" and "low maintenance" for "all the nice folks that help put that together all these places that we play at across the road," he adds. "I wish it was more elaborate, but we keep it pretty simple."
Broken Branches Tour
Bentley will need an updated rider soon. The "She Hates Me" singer just announced his Broken Branches Tour, kicking off on May 29 in Austin, Texas. Zach Top will serve as the opening act for all dates.
"I'm 20(ish) years into doing this, and I've seriously never been more excited about a tour," Bentley says. "We had Zach out for a few shows last summer, and I knew right away that we had to do more together. He loves the same kind of country music I do, and he's got the bluegrass chops to hang with the best of 'em in a jam. I've got a million ideas for the set list rolling around in my head. It'll be fun to figure out how to make it all come to life with a new album and new production."
Tickets for Bentley's Broken Branches Tour go on sale on Friday, February 21, at 10:00 am local time. Find more information at Dierks.com.
