They Came, They Saw, Correctly: A Review of the 2024 Come Correct Competition

Contestant, Amari, during her round two performance of the Come Correct Competition on the SAW Gallery stage on Thursday Nov. 28, 2024. Amari sings “And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going” from Dreamgirls. (Photo by Simone R. Brown)

If you’ve ever been to a Pieces of Us event, you’ve witnessed magic. From the warm pink and orange lights that greet you at the door to the music that insists you sing along, these events transport you. And when the artists take the stage, it’s like stepping into a whole new universe - one that either inspires you to get serious about your craft or to budget for the next chance to see the city’s best talents.

The second annual Come Correct Competition was all of this - and more.

On November 28, 2024, Pieces of Us transformed SAW Gallery into a vibrant stage for their three-round elimination-style performing arts competition. Twelve local artists competed for a $1,000 grand prize, a trophy, exclusive gifts, and unique opportunities. Where was I? Behind the scenes, running around, handling minor tasks, sneaking glimpses of performances, and contributing to what felt like endless applause. It didn’t take long to realize that the “magic” audiences experience is actually the product of grit, ambition, and the well-oiled teamwork of Pieces of Us.

Judges Stefan Keyes (left), Ashely Ighorewo, and Venesha Angus prepare for the competition moments before its start at their judges table stage right of the SAW Gallery stage on Thursday Nov. 28, 2024, as Come Correct 2024 contestants poster poster is displayed for the audience. (Photo by Simone R. Brown) 

Stiff Competition, High Stakes

Let me just say: this year’s talent was jaw-dropping.

Picture this - I’m setting up chairs, attempting to C-Walk to “2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted” blasting from the Come Correct playlist, and already feeling the electric energy. Hip-hop, after all, is the perfect anthem for a competition like this.

While scarfing down pizza in the back during soundcheck, I already knew two things: (1) this would be an unforgettable night, and (2) the judges were going to have a nightmare deciding. Spoiler alert: I was right.

As the competition unfolded, the scores proved how razor-thin the margins were. Moving on or getting eliminated often came down to fractions of a point - literally 0.2 in some cases. The lineup of 12 contestants represented four disciplines: singing, rapping, poetry, and dance. Each performance stood alone and was judged on its own merits.

What sets Come Correct apart is its focus on individuality. Whether judged by a panel (in rounds one and three) or the audience (round two), the emphasis is on uniqueness, talent, and impact. This creates a space where audiences are encouraged to fully experience and connect with the art in front of them.

Too often, we pit one art form against another, creating a toxic hierarchy where certain forms dominate creative spaces. Not here. Come Correct flips that script, ensuring all art forms are given equal respect, recognition, and opportunity.

When poet Aishah was declared the winner, the room erupted. As the disco ball spun and DJ Khaled’s “All I Do Is Win” played, a guest standing beside me, a fellow poet, screamed, “SHE’S A POET AND SHE WON!” That moment said it all - Come Correct is about more than entertainment or financial prizes. It’s about creating a platform where diverse art forms can shine on their own terms.

Aishah (center) saying a few words after winning, on the SAW Gallery stage on Thursday Nov. 28, 2024. (Photo by Simone R. Brown)

Backstage Magic

Once the performances wrapped, I stopped recording, and contestant J Dunni turned to me, smiling knowingly. “Told you, I knew she was gonna win.”

The night left my feet sore (thanks to hours in Converse), but the camaraderie backstage made it worth every step. There was an energy of mutual support - from pre-performance claps to hugs for both those who advanced and those who didn’t. My favorite moments? Watching contestants sing along when a performer delivered a cover song.

Though it was a competition, at its heart, it felt like a celebration - a gathering of people who love and champion the vibrant art scene in our city.

“One Band, One Sound!”

The Pieces of Us team reminded me of the movie Drumline. Much like a marching band, every member contributes uniquely, creating a seamless experience. But their coordination isn’t just technical; it’s driven by a shared commitment to centering art and humanity.

For Ottawa’s creative scene to take its rightful place, we need this same commitment. We must value art consistently and collectively - like Drumline’s mantra: “One band, one sound.”

Art is, and always will be, about the people. The ones who create it, love it, and make space for it.