R&B Xmas Concert Review: An Emotional Trip Back to the Nineties

This second annual R&B Xmas Ball showcased a roster of artists renowned for their Christmas albums. Rather than centering on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and heart-rending style of 90s R&B.

Starting Acts: Timeless Vibes

The group Dru Hill presented iconic R&B in coordinated outfits, with videos from the 2000s displaying behind them. Next, a performance of mostly ballads from Joe set the stage for the headlining acts.

The 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 live band appeared anchored in the time period of her peak fame.

Then, deep into her set, she opened up about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not perform live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt moment. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.

Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the crowd's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though slightly shortened, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.

The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Virtuosos

Taking the stage in dazzlingly matching all-white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both precise and reactive to their accompaniment.

Their performance featured interpretations of inspirations, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.

A Dash of Holiday Spirit

Finally, the concert turned to the holiday mood with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show concluded with a strong finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.

Final Impressions

Although the evening's production had some hiccups, and the sense at points was of stars performing a tribute to their past selves, the net effect was transportive. The crowd was temporarily transported to the peak era of R&B, going home dusted with glitter rather than snow.