R&B Christmas Ball Recap: An Emotional Journey Returning to the Nineties
This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on carols, the evening acted as a nostalgic excuse for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Starting Acts: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with music videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.
The Moving Performance
The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her show with a backing band seemed anchored in the era of her peak fame.
However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though slightly shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their live band.
Their set featured interpretations of influences, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Cheer
Finally, the evening embraced the Christmas mood with performances 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.
Overall Impressions
Although the night's technical execution had some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than snow.
