R&B Xmas Concert Review: An Heartfelt Journey Returning to the Nineties
The second annual R&B Xmas Ball featured a roster of performers renowned for their holiday albums. Instead of focusing on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the earnest and emotional sound of 1990s R&B.
Starting Acts: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching outfits, with videos from the 2000s era displaying on screens behind them. Next, a set of primarily slow jams from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
Toni Braxton's Powerful Set
The opening of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic legacy. At first, her show with a backing band seemed rooted in the era of her peak fame.
Then, 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 profoundly heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she stated sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's emotions. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Appearing on stage in dazzlingly coordinated white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing breathtaking three-part vocals that were both precise and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their performance featured covers of influences, including a memorable 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 renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
While the evening's production had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of artists performing a tribute to their younger selves, the overall result was transformative. The audience was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than snow.
