Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Recap: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of artists renowned for their holiday records. Rather than centering on carols, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.
Toni Braxton's Powerful Set
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her peak success.
However, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their accompaniment.
Their performance included covers of influences, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Cheer
Finally, the concert embraced the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the evening's technical execution had some glitches, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.
