R&B Christmas Concert Recap: A Heartfelt Trip Returning to the 90s
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Feelings
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
The Moving Performance
The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a live band seemed anchored in the time period of her peak fame.
Then, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a deeply heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She finished with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their performance featured interpretations of influences, such as a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Spirit
Towards the end, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
While the night's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at times was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than frost.
