R&B Christmas Concert Review: An Heartfelt Journey Back to the 90s
This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Feelings
The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts.
The Powerful Set
The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her peak success.
Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their performance featured covers of influences, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Spirit
Towards the end, the concert embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
Although the evening's production experienced some glitches, and the feeling at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.
