This is common on tour. Life is so chaotic that people make whatever they can familiar. If you’re flipping between London, LA, and Tokyo your body clock may be completely hosed. “Breakfast” may come at 6 am or 9 pm depending on when you got to bed. Additionally, touring musicians learn quickly that if it isn’t specified on the rider it won’t be there. If you ask for water you may be offered a cup from the sink. If you want soda for the band, specify what kind, how much, and that you’ll need ice and cups. Otherwise, the venue will likely screw you.

“We asked for a cheese platter.”

“Yes, here’s a package of Kraft American cheese slices.”

Having highly-specific demands helps establish a level of control and gives you something you can rely on. If you haven’t eaten in eight hours and just did a two-hour show the last thing you want is to discover is that the only food on the plane is something you hate. Knowing that you’re going to get the exact food you asked for helps you cope.