Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Recap: An Emotional Trip Returning to the 90s
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of performers renowned for their holiday albums. Rather than centering on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts.
The Powerful Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her show with a live band seemed anchored in the era of her peak success.
Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her signature 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 hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their accompaniment.
Their set featured interpretations of influences, including 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 evening turned to the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
Although the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at times was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The audience was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.
