Host Deke Sharon sat down with competitors at the 2018 Aca-Challenge this past weekend to find out more about what goes on both on and off stage.

Connect

The 2017 Harmony Sweepstakes finalists made the trip down I-95 to take the stage at Sixth & I in Washington D.C. to share their competition artistry.

DaCadence

DaCadence may have only had to brave the Metro to come in from the University of Maryland, but the group came ready to wow. DaCadence took home third place.

The Workshop

The Workshop brought an eclectic NYC vibe to the D.C. competition.

BluesTones

The JMU BluesTones brought crystal clear blend and a full sound to their engaging set. The group earned audience favorite and runner-up.

Word of Mouth

Returning to the competition for the first time since winning in 2014, Word of Mouth treated the audience to a set of guilty pleasures.

GW Vibes

A last-minute addition to the competition, the GW Vibes continued their successful ride this year by taking home first place (and $1,000!) for their beautifully crafted set on overcoming depression and suicide.

Evolve

While the judges deliberated, the audience was treated to a special performance by Evolve, the up-and-coming a cappella group from Chesapeake High School in Pasadena, Maryland.