Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert Review: An Emotional Trip Back to the 90s

The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers known for their Christmas albums. Instead of centering on carols, the night served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.

Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a performance of primarily ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.

Toni Braxton's Powerful Set

The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. At first, her performance with a live band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak fame.

However, deep into her performance, 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 gave a deeply emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.

Power chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters

Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their set featured interpretations of influences, such as a standout 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 turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

Although the night's production experienced some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.