East Tennessee State University students and the community can look forward to an evening of hip-hop and genre-bending music when BigXthaPlug headlines the 2026 Student Government Association (SGA) Fall Concert with special guest Shelailai.

The concert will take place Wednesday, Oct. 7, at 7 p.m. at Freedom Hall Civic Center.

A genre-bending headliner

BigXthaPlug, the Dallas-based artist known for his raw storytelling and distinctive blend of hip-hop and country influences, has quickly emerged as one of the genre’s most prominent new voices.

His RIAA platinum-certified singles “Texas,” “Mmhmm” and “Levels” helped establish his national profile, while his sophomore album, “Take Care,” debuted at No. 8 on the Billboard 200 and has since amassed more than 3 billion streams. BigXthaPlug was named XXL’s 2025 Best New Artist and has performed at major festivals and events, including Rolling Loud, Dreamville Fest, Coachella, Stagecoach and Lollapalooza Berlin.

Meet Shelailai

Joining BigXthaPlug for the evening will be Canadian/Caribbean alternative pop rapper Shelailai.

Shelailai combines sharp lyricism with a genre-fluid sound shaped by real-life relationships, emotions and personal growth. She began building an audience through TikTok, where her rapid-fire delivery and meaningful songwriting gained attention, before bringing that energy to live performances.

With a growing presence in alternative hip-hop and pop spaces, Shelailai brings an energetic and personal approach to the stage.

How do I get tickets to ETSU’s SGA Concert?

  • Student tickets will be available beginning at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, at the Carrier Center on the second floor of the D.P. Culp Student Center.
  • Students receive one free ticket with a valid ETSU student ID and may purchase up to two additional tickets for $15 each.
  • Faculty and staff may purchase up to four discounted tickets for $15 each with a valid ETSU ID beginning at 9 a.m. Monday, Sept. 15.
  • Public tickets, if available, will be sold online only beginning Tuesday, Sept. 22, for $40 plus tax and fees.

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