R&B Christmas Concert Recap: A Heartfelt Trip Returning to the 90s
This second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a lineup of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.
Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.
The Moving Set
The opening of the song Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the time period of her greatest fame.
However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “For 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, cementing her grip over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their set featured covers of influences, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Spirit
Finally, the evening turned to the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful closing run 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 net result was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.