R&B Xmas Concert Review: A Emotional Trip Back to the Nineties
The yearly Rhythm and Blues Christmas Concert featured a roster of performers renowned for their Christmas records. Rather than centering on carols, the night served as a nostalgic excuse for a trip back to the sincere and emotional sound of 90s R&B.
Opening Acts: Classic Vibes
Dru Hill delivered iconic R&B in matching attire, with music videos from the 2000s era playing behind them. Following this, a performance of mostly ballads from the artist Joe prepared the audience for the headlining acts.
The Moving Performance
The beginning of the song Last Last skillfully transitioned into He Wasn’t Man Enough, tying in Braxton's artistic heritage. At first, her show with a live band seemed anchored in the era of her greatest fame.
Then, deep into her performance, she spoke about her struggle with lupus and being told she might not sing on stage again. Performing Breathe Again in a solitary beam of light, she gave a deeply emotional moment. “For as long as I live, I will never forget tonight,” she declared sincerely.
Power chords then launched the audience into Long As I Live, cementing her command over the audience's hearts. She encored with an flawless, though somewhat shortened, rendition of her signature hit, Un-break My Heart.
The Group Boyz II Men: Vocal Masters
Appearing on stage in strikingly matching white outfits, Boyz II Men opened with Motownphilly. They performed classics like Water Runs Dry and On Bended Knee, showcasing awe-inspiring three-part vocals that were both tight and reactive to their accompaniment.
Their set featured interpretations of influences, such as a standout solo on Purple Rain, and tracks inspired by them, like Bruno Mars’s Locked Out of Heaven.
A Dash of Holiday Spirit
Finally, the evening embraced the holiday theme with renditions of Silent Night and Let It Snow. The performance ended with a powerful finale of hits including One Sweet Day, I’ll Make Love To You, and End of the Road.
Final Impressions
While the night's production had some hiccups, and the feeling at times was of stars paying homage to their younger selves, the overall effect was transformative. The crowd was temporarily transported to the golden age of R&B, going home dusted with sparkle rather than frost.
