R&B Xmas Concert Review: A Heartfelt Journey Back to the 90s
The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of performers known for their holiday albums. Rather than focusing on carols, the night acted as a nostalgic reason for a voyage back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Performances: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill delivered classic R&B in coordinated attire, with videos from the 2000s playing behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining artists.
The Powerful Performance
The opening of the song Last Last cleverly transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. Initially, her performance with a backing band seemed rooted in the time period of her greatest fame.
Then, deep into her set, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might never perform live again. Singing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a deeply heartfelt moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared earnestly.
Power chords then catapulted the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her grip over the audience's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat abridged, version of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Harmony Masters
Taking the stage in strikingly matching all-white suits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They moved through hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating awe-inspiring three-way harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their performance featured interpretations of influences, including a memorable solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Holiday Spirit
Finally, the evening embraced the Christmas theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The show ended with a strong finale of anthems including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Overall Thoughts
Although the night's technical execution had some hiccups, and the feeling at points was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the net result was transformative. The audience was briefly transported to the golden age of R&B, leaving sprinkled with sparkle rather than snow.
