R&B Xmas Concert Review: An Emotional Trip Back to the Nineties
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 1990s R&B.
Starting Acts: Classic Feelings
The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a performance of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.
The Powerful Set
The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her show with a live band appeared rooted in the era of her peak success.
However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might not perform on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the audience's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters
Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated all-white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way vocals that were both precise and reactive to their accompaniment.
Their set featured covers of influences, such as a memorable guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Cheer
Towards the end, the concert turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
While the night's technical execution experienced some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the overall effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.
