Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Review: An Heartfelt Trip Back to the 90s
The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of performers renowned for their holiday records. Rather than focusing on seasonal songs, the night acted as a sentimental excuse for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Starting Acts: Timeless Feelings
Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
The Powerful Set
The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared rooted in the time period of her peak success.
Then, deep into her performance, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Driving guitar chords then catapulted the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the audience's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their set included interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Christmas Spirit
Towards the end, the evening turned to the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance concluded with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the evening's production experienced some hiccups, and the sense at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transformative. The crowd was briefly taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.