Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Review: An Heartfelt Trip Back to the Nineties
The yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Vibes
The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a performance of primarily slow jams from Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.
Toni Braxton's Moving Performance
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared rooted in the time period of her greatest success.
However, deep into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their performance featured covers of influences, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Cheer
Finally, the concert embraced 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 Impressions
Although the evening's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the overall result was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.
