Rhythm and Blues Xmas Ball Recap: An Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of artists known for their holiday records. Rather than centering on seasonal songs, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Feelings
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.
Toni Braxton's Moving Set
The beginning of Burna Boy’s Last Last cleverly segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. Initially, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the time period of her greatest success.
Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she delivered a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an impeccable, though slightly abridged, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos
Taking the stage in dazzlingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their live band.
Their set featured interpretations of influences, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the evening turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong closing run of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Thoughts
While the evening's production experienced some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with sparkle rather than frost.
