R&B Christmas Concert Review: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
The yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of performers known for their Christmas albums. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the night served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 1990s R&B.
Opening Acts: Classic Feelings
The group Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.
The Moving Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the era of her greatest fame.
However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.
Their performance included interpretations of inspirations, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Spirit
Finally, the evening turned to the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
While the evening's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall result was transformative. The audience was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.
