Rhythm and Blues Christmas Ball Recap: A Emotional Journey Back to the 90s
The second annual Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert showcased a roster of performers known for their holiday albums. Instead of centering on seasonal songs, the evening served as a sentimental excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional style of 1990s R&B.
Starting Performances: Timeless Feelings
Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching attire, with videos from the 2000s era playing on screens behind them. Following this, a set of primarily ballads from Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
The Powerful Performance
The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully segued into He Wasn’t Man Enough, connecting Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her performance with a live band seemed rooted in the time period of her peak success.
However, deep into her set, she spoke about her battles with lupus and being told she might never sing live again. Performing Breathe Again in a single spotlight, she delivered a profoundly emotional performance. “As long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Driving guitar chords then launched the crowd into Long As I Live, solidifying her grip over the crowd's hearts. She finished with an impeccable, though somewhat shortened, version of her iconic hit, Un-break My Heart.
Boyz II Men: Vocal Virtuosos
Appearing on stage in strikingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men began with Motownphilly. They performed hits like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, demonstrating breathtaking three-way harmonies that were both tight and responsive to their accompaniment.
Their set featured interpretations of influences, including a standout solo on Purple Rain, and songs influenced by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Touch of Christmas Spirit
Towards the end, the evening turned to the holiday theme with performances of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended 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 night's production experienced some glitches, and the feeling at times was of stars paying homage to their past selves, the overall result was transformative. The audience was briefly taken back to the peak era of R&B, going home sprinkled with glitter rather than frost.
