Roadies: NDA Breaches You Didn’t Realise You Were Making
Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) are a standard part of working in the music and entertainment industry. For roadies, crew members, and other professionals, they help protect sensitive information about artists, tours, and production processes.
However, while signing an NDA is straightforward, adhering to one can be trickier than it seems. Many breaches aren’t the result of malicious intent but of simple misunderstandings or overlooked details.
Here are some of the most common NDA pitfalls that can land you in trouble.
Common NDA Breaches in the Music Industry
Oversharing on Social Media
One of the easiest ways to breach an NDA is by sharing content online.
This can include:
Posting photos of the stage setup, backstage areas, or artists without permission.
Sharing tour schedules, venue details, or behind-the-scenes moments.
Mentioning unreleased songs, setlists, or other confidential information.
Even casual posts, like tagging your location or posting a selfie at a venue, can inadvertently reveal details the artist or management wants to keep private. Always think twice before hitting “post.”
Talking Shop with Friends and Family
It’s natural to want to share stories about your work, but casual conversations can lead to NDA violations.
For example:
Mentioning the artist's travel plans or personal routines.
Discussing production techniques or equipment used on the tour.
Sharing insider details about challenges or changes during the show.
Even if the person you’re speaking with isn’t in the industry, information has a way of traveling. Be mindful of what you share, even in personal conversations.
Including Tour Content on Your Website or Portfolio
As a professional, it’s tempting to showcase your work.
However:
Posting photos of the set, artist, or branded tour materials without permission is a clear breach.
Listing details about your involvement in confidential projects or using logos without approval can lead to legal trouble.
Always seek explicit permission from the tour manager or production team before featuring anything related to the tour in your portfolio.
Sharing Equipment or Production Insights
Many roadies and crew members love to geek out about gear or production setups, but NDAs often include clauses that protect this information.
Common mistakes include:
Discussing unique stage designs, effects, or setups on forums or with colleagues outside the tour.
Sharing photos of custom equipment or backstage layouts.
If in doubt, keep technical details under wraps unless you have express permission to discuss them.
Forgetting the Scope of the NDA
NDAs often cover more than just what happens on tour.
Breaches can include:
Talking about contracts, pay rates, or working conditions.
Sharing information about future projects, album releases, or promotional plans.
Revealing the identities of VIPs or guests who attended shows.
Remember, NDAs are designed to protect the entire operation, not just the artist.
What You Can Do Without Breaching an NDA
While NDAs are strict, they don’t mean you have to keep completely silent.
Here are a few things you can typically do:
Talk About Your Job in General Terms: Saying you worked as a set carpenter or roadie for a specific tour is usually fine, as long as you don’t disclose sensitive details.
Share Approved Content: Some tours will provide official photos or videos that you’re allowed to share. Stick to these when promoting your work.
Celebrate Your Achievements: Mentioning general accomplishments, like working on a sold-out tour or using advanced techniques, is usually acceptable if it doesn’t breach specifics.
Think Before You Share
NDAs aren’t just about protecting the artist—they’re about maintaining professionalism and trust in the industry. A single careless post or comment can have serious consequences, from legal action to damaged reputations. By being mindful of what you share and staying within the boundaries of your agreement, you can enjoy your work while respecting the trust placed in you.
When in doubt, always refer to the NDA you signed or check with the production team. It’s better to ask than to risk breaching your agreement. After all, discretion is part of the job.
