R&B Xmas Ball Review: A Emotional Journey Returning to the Nineties
The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their holiday records. Rather than focusing on carols, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
The Powerful Performance
The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. At first, her show with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest fame.
However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though slightly shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Appearing on stage in strikingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way vocals that were both precise 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 Dash of Christmas Spirit
Finally, the concert embraced the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the night's production experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.
