Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Review: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
The yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists known for their holiday albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.
Starting Acts: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.
Toni Braxton's Powerful Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared rooted in the time period of her peak fame.
Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band.
Their set featured covers of influences, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Cheer
Towards the end, the evening turned to the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
While the evening's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.