Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Recap: An Emotional Journey Back to the Nineties
The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional style of 90s R&B.
Starting Acts: Timeless Feelings
Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Following this, a performance of mostly slow jams from Joe set the stage for the main artists.
Toni Braxton's Powerful Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak success.
However, nine songs into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band.
Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the evening turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
While the evening's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.
