Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Review: A Emotional Journey Back to the Nineties
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of artists known for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 1990s R&B.
Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes
The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
The Powerful Set
The opening of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her peak fame.
However, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their live band.
Their set featured interpretations of influences, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Spirit
Towards the end, the concert embraced the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
While the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.
