R&B Xmas Concert Recap: A Emotional Trip Back to the 90s
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the evening acted as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Vibes
The group Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.
Toni Braxton's Moving Performance
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a live band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest success.
Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Appearing on stage in strikingly coordinated all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their live band.
Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Cheer
Finally, the evening embraced the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
While the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the net result was transportive. The audience was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.
