R&B Xmas Ball Review: An Heartfelt Journey Back to the 90s
The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their holiday records. Rather than focusing on carols, the evening acted as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 1990s R&B.
Opening Acts: Timeless Feelings
The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.
The Moving Set
The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak fame.
Then, deep into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.
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 Dash of Holiday Spirit
Towards the end, the evening embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong 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 glitches, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.
