R&B Christmas Concert Recap: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
The yearly R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of performers known for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional style of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Timeless Vibes
The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
The Powerful Performance
The beginning of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak success.
However, nine songs into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a deeply emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Appearing on stage in strikingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.
Their performance featured covers of influences, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Spirit
Finally, the evening turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the evening's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with sparkle rather than frost.
