R&B Xmas Concert Recap: A Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
The yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.
Starting Acts: Classic Feelings
Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.
The Moving Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her show with a live band seemed rooted in the era of her peak fame.
However, deep into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's emotions. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their live band.
Their set included covers of influences, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Christmas Cheer
Towards the end, the evening embraced the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
Although the night's technical execution had some glitches, and the feeling at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.
