Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Review: A Emotional Journey Back to the Nineties
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Opening Performances: Classic Vibes
The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
Toni Braxton's Moving Set
The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed anchored in the time period of her greatest success.
However, nine songs into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply heartfelt performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their set featured interpretations of influences, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Spirit
Towards the end, the concert embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
Although the night's production had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.
