Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Review: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
The second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of centering on carols, the evening acted as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.
Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes
The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a set of mostly ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
The Powerful Performance
The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the time period of her greatest fame.
Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.
Their set featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Spirit
Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
Although the evening's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the sense at times was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.
