R&B Christmas Ball Review: A Heartfelt Journey Returning to the 90s
The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a lineup of artists known for their holiday albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Performances: Timeless Vibes
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Following this, a performance of mostly slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the main artists.
The Moving Performance
The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her show with a live band appeared anchored in the era of her greatest success.
However, nine songs into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she gave a deeply heartfelt performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, rendition of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-part vocals that were both tight and responsive to their live band.
Their set included interpretations of inspirations, including a standout guitar piece on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Christmas Spirit
Finally, the evening embraced the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a powerful 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 technical execution experienced some glitches, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving dusted with glitter rather than snow.
