Rhythm and Blues Xmas Concert Recap: An Emotional Trip Back to the 90s

The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a lineup of artists renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on carols, the night served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.

Opening Performances: Classic Feelings

The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.

The Powerful Set

The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her peak success.

However, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.

Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.

Their performance included covers of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Christmas Cheer

Towards the end, the evening turned to the Christmas mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Thoughts

Although the evening's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.