Rhythm and Blues Christmas Ball Review: A Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a lineup of performers known for their holiday albums. Rather than centering on carols, the night served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.
Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main acts.
Toni Braxton's Powerful Set
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the time period of her peak fame.
However, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a profoundly emotional moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly coordinated white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their set included interpretations of inspirations, such as a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Cheer
Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Impressions
Although the night's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of artists paying homage to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.
