Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Recap: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
This yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists known for their Christmas albums. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.
Opening Performances: Classic Feelings
Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main artists.
The Powerful Set
The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the time period of her peak success.
Then, deep into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing 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.
Driving guitar chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Appearing on stage in strikingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, 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 concert turned to the Christmas theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Thoughts
Although the evening's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.
