Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Review: A Heartfelt Trip Back to the Nineties
The yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists renowned for their holiday records. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.
Opening Acts: Classic Feelings
The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
The Moving Set
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her peak success.
Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their live band.
Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Spirit
Towards the end, the evening embraced the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
While the evening's technical execution had some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.