Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Review: An Heartfelt Journey Back to the 90s
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists known for their holiday records. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.
Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from Joe prepared the audience 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 backing band seemed rooted in the era of her peak success.
Then, deep into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature 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 performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their set included interpretations of influences, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the concert embraced the holiday mood with renditions 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
Although the evening's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transportive. The audience was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.
