R&B Xmas 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 holiday records. Instead of centering on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the earnest and heart-rending sound of 90s R&B.
Starting Acts: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
Toni Braxton's Moving Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her peak fame.
Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated earnestly.
Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience's emotions. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Taking the stage in strikingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, including a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the evening turned to the holiday mood with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Thoughts
Although the night's technical execution had some glitches, and the feeling at times was of artists performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transportive. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.
