Pittsburgh Hosts NFL Draft Week Music Lineup

Nelly, 2 Chainz, and Steve Aoki to perform at two North Shore venues during the 2026 NFL Draft

Apr. 16, 2026 at 5:20am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract composition of stark, angular black shapes against a bright red background, conceptually representing the high-energy music performances taking place during the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh.The North Shore's star-studded music lineup will amplify the energy and excitement of the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh.Today in Pittsburgh

As Pittsburgh prepares to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors for the 2026 NFL Draft, the city's North Shore will be the center of a star-studded music lineup. Legendary artists Nelly, 2 Chainz, and Steve Aoki will each perform multiple shows at two different venues - Shorty's and The Plaza - offering a range of high-energy, club-style and festival-style concert experiences throughout draft week.

Why it matters

The NFL Draft is one of the biggest annual events in Pittsburgh, drawing massive crowds and generating significant economic activity for the city. By hosting a diverse lineup of popular musical acts, the North Shore venues are positioning themselves as must-visit destinations that will enhance the overall draft week experience for visitors.

The details

Shorty's will offer a late-night, club-style atmosphere with Steve Aoki, Nelly, and 2 Chainz each headlining their own draft week after-party events. In contrast, The Plaza will host large-scale, open-air concerts featuring the same artists but in a festival-style production. The Plaza is also offering a bundled ticket option to attend all three of its shows at a discounted rate.

  • The NFL Draft takes place in Pittsburgh from April 22-25, 2026.
  • Nelly will perform at The Plaza on Wednesday, April 22 (doors at 6pm).
  • Steve Aoki will perform at The Plaza on Thursday, April 23 (doors at 12pm) and at Shorty's on Wednesday, April 22 (doors at 8pm).
  • 2 Chainz will perform at The Plaza on Saturday, April 25 (doors at 6pm) and at Shorty's on Saturday, April 25 (doors at 8pm).
  • Nelly will perform at Shorty's on Thursday, April 23 (doors at 8pm).

The players

Nelly

A multi-platinum American rapper, singer, and songwriter known for hits like "Hot in Herre" and "Dilemma".

2 Chainz

An American rapper and songwriter who has collaborated with numerous high-profile artists and is known for his unique flow and lyrical style.

Steve Aoki

A Grammy-nominated American DJ, record producer, and music executive who is known for his energetic live performances and chart-topping electronic dance music.

Shorty's

A late-night, club-style venue in Pittsburgh's North Shore that will host after-party events with Nelly, 2 Chainz, and Steve Aoki during NFL Draft week.

The Plaza

An open-air concert venue in Pittsburgh's North Shore that will host large-scale festival-style performances by Nelly, 2 Chainz, and Steve Aoki during NFL Draft week.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Fans can purchase tickets for the individual shows at Shorty's and The Plaza, or take advantage of the bundled ticket option for all three Plaza events.

The takeaway

The NFL Draft's arrival in Pittsburgh is a major event that will draw huge crowds, and the North Shore's diverse music lineup provides an exciting opportunity for visitors to experience the city's vibrant entertainment scene alongside the football festivities.