Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Review: An Emotional Trip Returning to the 90s
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
The Powerful Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the time period of her greatest success.
Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly emotional moment. “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, cementing her command over the audience's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their live band.
Their set featured covers of inspirations, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Spirit
Towards the end, the evening turned to the Christmas mood 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 technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than frost.
