Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Recap: An Emotional Trip Returning to the Nineties
This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of artists known for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Feelings
Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.
Toni Braxton's Powerful Set
The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her performance with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest fame.
Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply emotional moment. “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 emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony 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, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both precise and reactive to their accompaniment.
Their set included interpretations of influences, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Spirit
Finally, the concert 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 technical execution experienced some glitches, and the feeling at times was of artists paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, leaving sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.
