Rhythm and Blues Christmas Ball Recap: An Heartfelt Journey Back to the 90s
The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of artists known for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening acted as a sentimental reason for a voyage back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining artists.
The Moving Set
The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical heritage. Initially, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her greatest fame.
However, deep into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly emotional performance. “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, cementing her command over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an flawless, though slightly shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their performance included covers of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Christmas Cheer
Towards the end, the evening embraced the Christmas mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a powerful closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
While the night's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transportive. The crowd was temporarily taken back to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.