Rhythm and Blues Christmas Ball Recap: An Heartfelt Trip Back to the 90s
This second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Instead of focusing on carols, the evening served as a sentimental reason for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Starting Performances: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill presented classic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Following this, a performance of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe set the stage for the main acts.
Toni Braxton's Powerful Performance
The opening of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's musical legacy. Initially, her performance with a backing band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest success.
However, deep into her set, 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. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, solidifying her command over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Appearing on stage in dazzlingly matching white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their set featured covers of influences, such as a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Cheer
Finally, the concert turned to the Christmas theme with performances 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 Impressions
Although the night's technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at times was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than frost.
