R&B Xmas Concert Review: An Emotional Trip Returning to the Nineties
This yearly R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of performers known for their holiday records. Rather than focusing on carols, the evening served as a nostalgic reason for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Classic Vibes
The group Dru Hill presented classic R&B in coordinated attire, with music videos from the 2000s era displaying behind them. Next, a set of primarily slow jams from Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.
Toni Braxton's Moving Set
The opening of Burna Boy’s Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her show with a backing band appeared rooted in the era of her greatest success.
Then, deep into her performance, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing on stage again. Singing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a profoundly heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Power chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though slightly shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters
Appearing on stage in strikingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part harmonies that were both tight and reactive to their live band.
Their set included interpretations of influences, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Cheer
Towards the end, the evening embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong closing run of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
Although the evening's production experienced some glitches, and the feeling at times was of stars performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transformative. The crowd was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than frost.
