Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Review: An Heartfelt Journey Back to the 90s
The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers known for their holiday albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional style of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Timeless Feelings
The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
The Powerful Set
The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her show with a live band appeared rooted in the time period of her greatest fame.
Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though slightly shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their set included interpretations of inspirations, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the concert embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
While the night's production had some glitches, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the overall result was transportive. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.
